RIYADH: Researchers have reported a notable improvement in coral reef conditions despite the potential of damage from the heat of the summer months, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
Field surveys conducted by the National Center for Wildlife reported promising results in coral health and overall ecosystem stability.
They found no cases of severe bleaching or mass marine mortality, even amid high temperatures.
The resilience of the ecosystem reflects the effectiveness of national conservation efforts, according to the SPA, reinforcing the Kingdom’s growing reputation in biodiversity management.
The program was carried out by Saudi scientists and researchers using advanced remote sensing technologies and field instruments to monitor the physical and chemical properties of the Red Sea’s water.
Human activities, such as discarded fishing gear and marine waste, were also tracked to build a comprehensive knowledge base that supports informed environmental planning and the achievement of the program’s objectives.
The NCW said in a statement that its marine programs and projects exemplify the Kingdom’s commitment to the Red Sea sustainability initiative.
This showcases the coordinated efforts of national entities under Saudi Vision 2030, according to the NCW, strengthening the Kingdom’s regional and global leadership as a model for effective and sustainable marine biodiversity conservation and natural resource management.
The results were gleaned from the NCW’s second survey this summer, after an initial study in April.
In that project, surveys were carried out on 64 locations along the coastline to investigate the health of various species.
The Red Sea is home to an array of wildlife, including whales, dolphins, hammerhead sharks and sea snakes.
The massive Pavona coral colony is expected to become an environmentally friendly tourist attraction managed by Red Sea Global.
