Seed pods of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis. Harrarah, 40 miles south-west from Doha, Qatar, March 12, 2010Astragalus drepanocarpus, Astragalus gyzensis, Astragalus hauarensis, Astragalus saccharensis, Astragalus sakkarensis, Solenotus gyzensis, Tragacantha gyzensis
Astragalus arpilobus is a perennial legume native to the Middle East and North Africa. In Qatar, it has been found to grow in sandy and gravelly areas, often in association with other desert plants. Studies have reported its presence in various regions of Qatar, including the northern and central parts of the country. The plant's ability to fix nitrogen and tolerate harsh desert conditions makes it a valuable component of Qatar's flora, contributing to soil fertility and ecosystem diversity. However, more research is needed to fully understand its ecological role and conservation status in Qatar.
Seed pods of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis. Harrarah, 40 miles south-west from Doha, Qatar, March 12, 2010
Hairy leaves of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis in sand in area of Jebel Al-Nakhsh in south-western Qatar, February 7, 2014
Hairy leaves of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis submerged in sand in area of Jebel Al-Nakhsh in south-western Qatar, February 7, 2014
Leaves of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis in sand near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, February 21, 2014
Milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis in sand near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, February 21, 2014
Leaves of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis covered by sand near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, February 21, 2014
Flowers of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis in sand near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, February 21, 2014
Blooming milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, February 21, 2014
Milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis eaten by aphids near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, February 21, 2014
Fruits of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis in windblown sand on roadside of Salwa Road in area of Khashem Al Nekhsh. Southern Qatar, March 18, 2016
Small plant of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis in windblown sand on roadside of Salwa Road in area of Khashem Al Nekhsh. Southern Qatar, March 18, 2016
Hairy leaves and yellow flowers of milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis in windblown sand on roadside of Salwa Road in area of Khashem Al Nekhsh. Southern Qatar, March 18, 2016Milkvetch Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis has been observed in various locations in Qatar, including Harrarah, Jebel Al-Nakhsh, and Umm Bab. The plant's seed pods, hairy leaves, and flowers have been noted, with leaves often being submerged or covered in sand. The plant has been found blooming in February, with yellow flowers present. In some cases, the plant has been eaten by aphids. Fruits of the plant have been observed in windblown sand along roadsides, such as Salwa Road. Small plants have also been spotted in these areas, with hairy leaves and yellow flowers. The plant's ability to thrive in sandy environments is evident, with observations showing its presence in a range of locations across southern Qatar. Its growth habits and interactions with insects like aphids have also been documented.
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QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.