A KAUST-led study in *Nature Ecology & Evolution* finds that plant species diversity is the strongest predictor of dryland ecosystem resistance to grazing pressure, outperforming climate and soil factors. Analyzing 73 sites across 25 countries, researchers found that diverse plant communities better maintain vegetation cover under grazing. This is attributed to varied species responses distributing grazing pressure and buffering vegetation loss. Why it matters: The findings highlight the importance of biodiversity in maintaining the productivity and stability of dryland ecosystems, which support half of global livestock production and a billion people's livelihoods.
Two professors from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Ahmed Eltawil and Michael Berumen, have been elected 2025 Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). Professor Eltawil was recognized for his contributions to wireless communications and low-power system design, specifically for advancing AI-native wireless architectures. Professor Berumen was honored for his distinguished work in marine science and ecology, focusing on coral reef ecosystems. Why it matters: This recognition highlights KAUST's global impact in scientific research and its contributions to critical areas like intelligent wireless infrastructure and environmental sustainability.
KAUST Professor Raquel Peixoto has been named one of "50 People Changing the World" by The Explorers Club for her pioneering work on coral probiotics. Her research demonstrates that probiotics can mitigate coral bleaching and prevent coral mortality. Peixoto's work bridges microbial ecology with applied innovation, influencing conservation strategies and international policy. Why it matters: This recognition highlights the importance of nature-based solutions developed in the region for addressing global environmental challenges like climate-driven reef degradation.
The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC) and KAUST have launched the SAUDINet initiative. The initiative aims to advance terrestrial ecology research in Saudi Arabia, focusing on restoring degraded lands, enhancing carbon sequestration and preserving biodiversity. NCVC’s workforce will receive specialized training in biodiversity monitoring and ecological sampling, with samples analyzed in KAUST’s labs. Why it matters: The partnership aims to establish Saudi Arabia as a global leader in the study of arid ecosystems and address the lack of data from hyper-arid lands in climate models.
KAUST's Beacon Development (KBD) is a key partner in the Heart of Arabia expedition, retracing a 750-mile journey across Saudi Arabia. The expedition aims to advance human performance understanding in extreme environments and deepen knowledge of pre-Islamic history and local biodiversity. KBD's Terrestrial Ecology and Conservation team is advising the field science component, providing equipment and expertise for data collection. Why it matters: This partnership highlights KAUST's commitment to environmental research and historical exploration, contributing to a deeper understanding of Saudi Arabia's natural and cultural heritage.
KAUST Professor Carlos Duarte has been appointed to the Scientific Committee of Extreme E, an electric SUV racing series. Duarte's expertise in marine ecosystems and Red Sea ecology will advise Extreme E, especially concerning its Saudi Arabian Desert X Prix. Extreme E aims to raise awareness of climate change impacts in endangered environments and promote electric vehicle adoption. Why it matters: This appointment brings KAUST's ecological expertise to a global platform focused on sustainability, aligning regional research with international environmental initiatives.
KAUST Professor Carlos M. Duarte received a Frontiers of Knowledge Award for Ecology and Conservation Biology from Fundación BBVA in Spain. Duarte's research focuses on global marine science problems and his contributions to Saudi Vision 2030. The award recognizes his leadership and dedication to expanding knowledge of ocean flora, fauna, and their carbon sequestering capacities. Why it matters: Recognition of KAUST faculty highlights the university's growing prominence in environmental research and its alignment with Saudi Arabia's sustainability goals.
KAUST's Professor Carlos Duarte received the 2019 Ramon Margalef Prize in Ecology from the Generalitat of Catalonia. The award recognizes Duarte's research into 'blue carbon' and its impact on climate change mitigation. Duarte highlighted the role of KAUST and collaborators in enabling his research achievements. Why it matters: The recognition of a KAUST professor for contributions to marine ecology highlights the university's growing role in environmental research and its impact on global climate change strategies.