Nature Authority Seizes 234kg of Protected Gundelia

Authorities in Israel have confiscated approximately 234 kilograms of Gundelia tournefortii, also known as akoub, a protected wild plant facing severe threats from illegal picking. Enforcement operations, assisted by Border Police, targeted collectors and traders, resulting in seizures in the Golan and Menashe regions. One operation alone yielded over 104 kilograms, leading to an investigation of suspected trafficking.

This illegal harvesting is largely fueled by significant economic incentives, with potential daily profits reaching thousands of shekels. The practice leads to extensive environmental damage, including the cutting of fences and risks to road safety. The Nature and Parks Authority emphasizes a strict enforcement policy against commercial-scale picking, while acknowledging the importance of tradition and responsible use.

Gundelia tournefortii, a perennial thorny plant, is ecologically vital as a food source for pollinators and contributes to biodiversity. However, its classification as a protected species stems from overharvesting and habitat damage, which hinder its reproductive cycle and accelerate its disappearance from natural habitats.

The Nature and Parks Authority urges the public to respect restrictions on picking this plant, both within nature reserves and outside protected areas. Violations can be reported to the authority's hotline. The ongoing fight aims to preserve nature for future generations by maintaining a balance between human needs and natural resources.