Semnan – The genetic bank of Semnan's Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Training Center has documented over 8,000 plant samples from 700 species, becoming a reference hub for genetic resources in eastern Iran.

 

"The herbarium is the result of years of field monitoring across diverse ecosystems. Each sample includes habitat data, growth traits, and chemical composition, critical for pharmaceutical studies and desertification efforts," said Somayeh Naseri, head of the Forest and Rangeland Research Department.

 

She added that the database serves as a strategic resource for researchers in veterinary medicine, pharmacology, and natural sciences. Species verification here is a prerequisite for many national research projects.

 

While 700 species have been documented, experts estimate over 1,300 plant species exist across Semnan's climate zones. The center continues its exploration to safeguard the region's genetic resources and biodiversity.