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  WWF 29 Aug 06
Study shows significant coral reef regeneration in the Arabian Gulf

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Researchers studying coral reefs in the Arabian Gulf have found encouraging signs that corals in Abu Dhabi and Qatar are regenerating.

According to the WWF-sponsored coral reef study, at least 18 out of an original 36 species of coral found in the region have recovered from damage suffered due to past climatic events.

In particular, Halul in Qatar and Ras Ghanda in Abu Dhabi are two areas where the most vigorous coral regeneration is taking place. Yasat and Dalma islands in Abu Dhabi also recorded good coral growth and high coral cover.

“We are encouraged by the results of extensive surveys undertaken as part of the coral reef project," said Razan Al Mubarak, Director of the WWF office in the United Arab Emirates. "Assuming no further disturbances to their habitat occur, the rate of regeneration suggests that the entire range of the region’s coral species would be re-established within a decade.”

Completion of the report comes ahead of a scheduled Marine Conservation Forum to be held in Abu Dhabi from 11–14 September. Dr Bernhard Riegl, the principal investigator of the coral reef study, together with a team of specialists from Abu Dhabi and Doha who are working on the project, will be key participants at the forum, which will discuss regional coral reef conservation efforts.

“Developing region-wide cooperation among various stakeholders is critical to ensure effective conservation of environmental resources in the Gulf," added Al Mubarak. “The forum is an excellent opportunity to develop a strategy for regional cooperation in marine environment preservation.”

END NOTES:

• The coral reef study is sponsored by Dolphin Energy Ltd., and managed by the Emirates Wildlife Society in association with WWF UAE. The implementation agencies are Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and Supreme Council for Environment and Natural Reserves (SCENR).

• Emirates Wildlife Society (EWS) is a UAE environmental NGO established in February 2001. EWS works at the federal level and aims to promote the conservation of nature in the UAE. To achieve its goals, EWS works in association with WWF, one of the world’s largest and most experienced independent conservation organizations. Together, this partnership is known as EWS-WWF.
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