Plant Diversity of the Cholistan Desert in Pakistan : Anthropogenic Factors and Conservation

Cholistan deserts harbors unique a natural and cultural heritage covering an area of 26,000 km2, situated in the southeRn parts of Punjab province of Pakistan. Historically, the Cholistan desert is a cradle of the Hakra River Civilization which flowed through the area during 1200 BC regularly and become irregular about 600 BC. The economy of the desert has been based mainly on pastoral and nomadic practices for centuries. The monsoon onset and rainfall distribution mainly dictates the pattern and movement of pastoralists. Cholistan desert vegetation comprises xerophytic species adapted to a wide range of severe temperature, moisture and edaphic conditions. The Cholistan desert belongs to unique biodiversity, geological features, archeological and historical sites portraying past cultures, and a great variety of ethnic groups with plenty of traditional knowledge and customs. However, threats to these legacy resources are rising due to increasing levels of human population, climate change and the over-exploitation of natural resources. The preservation and maintenance of the traditional knowledge relevant to conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity is crucial for the existence of this historical desert biome. The long-term conservation of desert biodiversity requires appropriate policy implementation that promote conservation and the sustainable use of natural resources.