Climate Change Impact on Vulnerable Socotra

Abstract

The Socotran Archipelago has such a unique assemblage of animal and plant species that it has been described as an Arabian Eden. The islands are best known for their plant diversity, including the dragon's blood tree and a variety of succulents.

Approximately 30% of plants are endemic to the islands and ten genera are only found here.

Reptilian fauna also demonstrates a high rate of endemism and a rich avifauna is found on the island.

While currently relatively pristine, the ecoregion has had a long history of human occupation and over 50 endemic plants are listed on the Red List of IUCN (International Union of Conservation of Nature) of Threatened Species.

The Socotra Archipelago remains vulnerable to increased human activity, tourism and industrial development.

The impact of climate change manifested in the periodical cyclones associated with heavy rainfalls that hit the island sweeping the already thin layer of soil and part of the vegetative cover, as it has been noticed in Haggher northern wadis and on Diksam plateau after Chapala 2015, in particular. In the previous years a cycle of frequent droughts hit the archipelago leaving heavy losses in cattle and sheep number and island depopulation.

Reversely, in recent years cycles of storms, hurricanes and cyclones sweeps the island and associated with strong winds, heavy rainfalls and torrential floods and sea surges.

The reoccurrence of such events has a huge negative impact on the biodiversity and nature of the island.

Preparedness and awareness together with protective measures; managerial and structural measures should be applied to save the unique nature of the island.

Keywords: Socotra, Climate Change, Draughts, Storms, Cyclones