Terrestrial Invertebrates

Terrestrial invertebrates represent the largest faunal assemblages in terms of diversity and abundance, as they spread in all different habitat types in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and play an important role in maintaining ecological balance.
Terrestrial invertebrates are represented by phylum Arthropoda, which includes 96 species of spiders, 35 species of scorpions, 19 species of ticks, more than 6800 species of insects divided into 23 orders. In addition, to different species of Myriapoda and Annelida (such as earthworms and medical leeches), all of which are recorded in Saudi Arabia.
Despite this huge diversity, information about invertebrates is still limited and requires extensive studies. The National Center for Wildlife aims to study and monitor the diversity of invertebrates to ensure maintaining their role in ecological balance, and sustain their use, in addition to provide information about the occurrence, spatial distribution, and abundance of species. This is achieved through research carried out at existing and proposed protected areas, Key Biodiversity Areas and wetlands in Saudi Arabia, covering the following actions:

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1- Establish a database to record species, and their geographical distribution on digital spatial maps, utilizing modern technologies to facilitate access to information.

2- Update and maintaining national checklists of invertebrate species in Saudi Arabia and assessing their national status.

3- Hold workshops with experts in national universities, national and international research centers to learn about new records, widely distributed, and endangered invertebrate species in Saudi Arabia.

4- Conduct research in cooperation with Saudi universities on Protected Areas, Key Biodiversity Areas, and wetlands.

5- Update national inventory of non-native invasive species and develop control and eradication protocols.

6- Develop and implement national action plans to conserve endemic and threatened species in accordance with international best practices.