Characterised by their lush vegetation, the mangroves of Qatar cover an area of over 7.72 mi² (20 km²). They are mainly located north of the city of Al-Khor on the country’s eastern coast in the Al Thakhira Nature Reserve (photo) and on Bin Ghannam Island. The Qatari mangrove is monospecific and contains only grey mangroves (Avicennia marina). One of the most northerly mangrove species and the best adapted to very saline environments. A refuge for many migratory birds (flamingos, egrets, herons, etc.), this ecosystem is also home to many crustaceans and fry. It is threatened by the creation of the Ras Laffan petrochemical plant and the extension of the North Gas Field some twenty kilometres to the north.