Scientists uncover evidence of Arabian desert's greener past

INVESTIGATIONS led by Tyneside scientists has revealed that one of the most notable desert areas on Earth enjoyed periods of green, humid weather.

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The research team into the now dry and arid Saharo-Arabian desert region included lead study author Dr Monika Markowska and Dr Ashley Martin from Northumbria University.

Supported by the Saudi Heritage Commission and the Saudi Ministry of Culture, the team made the discovery after using cave mineral deposits, such as stalactites and stalagmites, to reconstruct a detailed climatic record

While previous studies suggested that this arid landscape had been in place for at least 11 million years, the new evidence challenges this view, showing that Arabia was a much wetter place during certain periods in history.