BIODESERTS-CIBIO

BIODESERTS (Biodiversity of Deserts and Arid Regions) is a research group under CIBIO-InBIO, dedicated to producing leading research on desert and arid region ecosystems. Our main objectives are: 1. Assessing biodiversity distribution patterns in deserts; 2. Understand evolutionary and landscape processes in deserts; 3. Contribute to conservation planning in deserts. We have conducted extensive research and fieldwork in African countries, from Morocco to Tunisia in the North, to Mauritania and Mali in the West, passing by Libya, Niger, Chad, and also Namibia in the South, and in Middle East countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Iran. BIODESERTS projects have covered many taxonomic groups, ranging from invertebrates (including insects) to mammals (including large-sized carnivores and ungulates). We are deeply committed to: - Technology Transfer: Sharing experiences, knowledge, and innovative methodological tools developed to optimize biodiversity conservation among local governments, universities, and other institutions; - Capacity Building: Empowering individuals and communities by strengthening their skills, competencies, and abilities, fostering environmentally conscious attitudes to promote biodiversity conservation; - Science Dissemination: Raising public awareness about the value of deserts, their biodiversity, cultural, economic, and ecological importance, and the ecosystem services they provide. By integrating research, education, and outreach, our mission is to contribute to the conservation of desert biodiversity and the sustainable future of these unique ecosystems.