Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, March 3, 2014Cryptadia euphratensis, Gymnarrhena balansae
Camel's Eye, Dog's paw
Gymnarrhena micrantha is a common African plant in the Composite family. It is said to resemble an octopus, or the unrelated plant Welwitschia, and can live for 100 years.
Gymnarrhena micrantha is a rare and endangered annual herb native to the Arabian Peninsula. In Qatar, it has been found in limited areas, typically growing in sandy soils and alkaline flats. Studies have reported its presence in the country's central and southern regions, where it blooms from February to April. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect this species due to its limited distribution and habitat degradation.
Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, March 3, 2014
Flowers of Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, March 3, 2014
Basal rosette of Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, March 3, 2014
Basal rosette emerging from sand of Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, March 3, 2014
Basal rosette with flowers of Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, March 3, 2014
Flowers of Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) near Umm Bab in south-western Qatar, March 3, 2014
Habitat of Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) in stony desert in area of Jebel Al-Nakhsh (Khashm an Nakhsh) in south-western Qatar, March 11, 2016
Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) in stony desert in area of Jebel Al-Nakhsh (Khashm an Nakhsh) in south-western Qatar, March 11, 2016
Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) in area of Jebel Al-Nakhsh (Khashm an Nakhsh). South-western Qatar, March 25, 2016
Fruits of Dog's Paw plant (Camel's Eye, Gymnarrhena micrantha) in area of Jebel Al-Nakhsh (Khashm an Nakhsh). South-western Qatar, March 25, 2016The Gymnarrhena micrantha plant was observed in south-western Qatar, near Umm Bab and Jebel Al-Nakhsh. It has a basal rosette that emerges from the sand, with flowers blooming in March. The plant grows in stony desert habitats and can be found with fruits in late March. Observations were made on multiple dates, including March 3, 2014, and March 11 and 25, 2016. The plant's flowers and basal rosette were photographed, showing its growth habits and appearance. The habitat of the plant was also documented, showcasing its ability to thrive in Qatar's desert environment. Overall, the observations provide insight into the plant's morphology, growth patterns, and ecological preferences in south-western Qatar.
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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.