Mapping the global distribution and conservation status of oases-ecosystems of pivotal biocultural relevance.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Oases are azonal, highly productive, densely vegetated areas within drylands, often converted to agriculture, and characterized by significant biocultural diversity. Despite their importance, comprehensive information on the global distribution and biocultural diversity of oases has been lacking.

Methods

To address this gap, a detailed bibliographic search and random forest modeling were combined to create a global map of oases, with a focus on Asia and North Africa (ANA).

Results

In the ANA region, oases cover 1.5% of the dryland area and are populated by 150 million people, with an additional 268 million people living nearby and most likely being dependent on them. Globally, oases contain more than 8,200 vertebrate species, of which 13% are classified as

SUBMITTER: Hernandez-Aguero JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11874939 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature