UNESCO/Toson-Khulstai Biosphere Reserve
Wadi Allaqi
General information
The about 1,000 non-sedentary inhabitants (2003) use the natural resources of the biosphere reserve for livestock transhumance, charcoal production, the collection of medicinal plants, quarrying and small-scale cultivation.
Detailed information
Key data
Year of nomination
1993
Country
Egypt
Total population
450
Area
Surface
22,346.43 ha
Location
Latitiude: 22.5 - Longitude: 33.99
Ecological Characteristics
Downstream wadi system vegetation (frequently flooded) with extensive shrub groves of Tamarix sp., Heliotropium supinum and Glinus lotoides; vegetation above flood area dominated by xerophylic species such as Salsola baryosma and Acacia ehrenbergiana; upstream wadi system vegetation dominated by Balanites aegyptiaca, Salvadora persica, Acacia raddiana and A. tortilis; agroecosystems with vegetables, cereals and fodder crops
Socio-Economics Characteristics
Resource conservation has been a concept inherent in the Bedouin’s livelihood and value system over centuries. The views, aspirations and accumulated knowledge of the Bedouins are included in decision-making processes within the biosphere reserve.Core support for the biosphere reserve is provided by the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency. The principal focal point for research activities is the Unite of Environmental Studies and Development of South Valley, with a Desert Field Station and a Conservation Centre, in Wadi Allaqi, providing facilities for local and overseas researchers. Various cooperative programmes have been launched in association with several overseas universities and with support from such bodies as UNEP, UNESCO, The British Council, the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) of Canada, etc. Links with UNESCO include the UNESCO-Ecotechnie Chair on Environment and Development at South Valley University.Through these various collaborative initiatives at national, bilateral and international levels, research and training activities cover a wide range of issues related to arid zone ecology and resource use. Recent and ongoing research projects include work on fuel wood energy and conservation, indigenous medicinal plants, the cultivation of Balanites aegyptiaca for oil production, the natural history of the Wadi Allaqi, and water use and salt recycling of Tamarix sp.