Notarbartolo di Sciara, G,Kerem, D.,Smeenk, C.
Cetaceans of the Red Sea Technical Report
no. 185, 2017.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, cetaceans, Distribution, Egypt, occurrence, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
@techreport{,
title = {Cetaceans of the Red Sea},
author = {Notarbartolo di Sciara, G,Kerem, D.,Smeenk, C.},
year = {2017},
date = {2017-01-01},
journal = {CMS Technical series 33},
volume = {33},
number = {185},
pages = {86},
publisher = {Convention on Migratory Species},
abstract = {Based on a review of the literature, complemented by original observations at sea made by the authors during the
past 34 years, the cetacean fauna in the Red Sea appears to be composed of a total of 16 species: three Mysticetes
(Bryde’s whale, Balaenoptera edeni; Omura’s whale, B. omurai; and humpback whale, Megaptera novaeangliae) and
13 Odontocetes (dwarf sperm whale, Kogia sima; killer whale, Orcinus orca; false killer whale, Pseudorca crassidens;
short-finned pilot whale, Globicephala macrorhynchus; Risso’s dolphin, Grampus griseus; Indian Ocean humpback
dolphin, Sousa plumbea; rough-toothed dolphin, Steno bredanensis; Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops
aduncus; common bottlenose dolphin, T. truncatus; pantropical spotted dolphin, Stenella attenuata; spinner dolphin,
S. longirostris; striped dolphin, S. coeruleoalba; Indo-Pacific common dolphin, Delphinus delphis tropicalis).
This review presents the very first documented and confirmed sightings of B. omurai, K. sima and S. bredanensis
in the Red Sea. Of all the above species, however, only nine (Bryde’s whale, false killer whale, Risso’s dolphin, Indian
Ocean humpback dolphin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, common bottlenose dolphin, pantropical spotted dolphin,
spinner dolphin, and Indo-Pacific common dolphin) appeared to occur regularly in the Red Sea, the remaining seven
only occurring sporadically as vagrants from the Indian Ocean. Even regular species appeared not to be uniformly
distributed throughout the Red Sea, e.g., with Indo-Pacific common dolphins mostly limited to the southern portion
of the region, and the Gulf of Suez only hosting the two bottlenose dolphin species and Indian Ocean humpback
dolphins. No convincing evidence was found of the Red Sea occurrence of two whale species mentioned in the
literature: the common minke whale, Balaenoptera acutorostrata, and the sperm whale, Physeter macrocephalus.
The absence from the region of deep diving species (e.g., Ziphiidae and the sperm whale) can be explained by the
geomorphology of the Straits of Bab al Mandab, with its extended shallow sill likely to discourage incursions by
such species into the Red Sea. The coordinated effort and the different expertise of the authors has contributed to
amending previous mistakes and inaccuracies, verifying and validating specimen identification, highlighting features
of relevance for species taxonomy and, most importantly, drawing a fundamental baseline to inform conservation of
cetaceans in the Red Sea},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, cetaceans, Distribution, Egypt, occurrence, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Based on a review of the literature, complemented by original observations at sea made by the authors during the
past 34 years, the cetacean fauna in the Red Sea appears to be composed of a total of 16 species: three Mysticetes
(Bryde’s whale, Balaenoptera edeni; Omura’s whale, B. omurai; and humpback whale, Megaptera novaeangliae) and
13 Odontocetes (dwarf sperm whale, Kogia sima; killer whale, Orcinus orca; false killer whale, Pseudorca crassidens;
short-finned pilot whale, Globicephala macrorhynchus; Risso’s dolphin, Grampus griseus; Indian Ocean humpback
dolphin, Sousa plumbea; rough-toothed dolphin, Steno bredanensis; Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops
aduncus; common bottlenose dolphin, T. truncatus; pantropical spotted dolphin, Stenella attenuata; spinner dolphin,
S. longirostris; striped dolphin, S. coeruleoalba; Indo-Pacific common dolphin, Delphinus delphis tropicalis).
This review presents the very first documented and confirmed sightings of B. omurai, K. sima and S. bredanensis
in the Red Sea. Of all the above species, however, only nine (Bryde’s whale, false killer whale, Risso’s dolphin, Indian
Ocean humpback dolphin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, common bottlenose dolphin, pantropical spotted dolphin,
spinner dolphin, and Indo-Pacific common dolphin) appeared to occur regularly in the Red Sea, the remaining seven
only occurring sporadically as vagrants from the Indian Ocean. Even regular species appeared not to be uniformly
distributed throughout the Red Sea, e.g., with Indo-Pacific common dolphins mostly limited to the southern portion
of the region, and the Gulf of Suez only hosting the two bottlenose dolphin species and Indian Ocean humpback
dolphins. No convincing evidence was found of the Red Sea occurrence of two whale species mentioned in the
literature: the common minke whale, Balaenoptera acutorostrata, and the sperm whale, Physeter macrocephalus.
The absence from the region of deep diving species (e.g., Ziphiidae and the sperm whale) can be explained by the
geomorphology of the Straits of Bab al Mandab, with its extended shallow sill likely to discourage incursions by
such species into the Red Sea. The coordinated effort and the different expertise of the authors has contributed to
amending previous mistakes and inaccuracies, verifying and validating specimen identification, highlighting features
of relevance for species taxonomy and, most importantly, drawing a fundamental baseline to inform conservation of
cetaceans in the Red Sea
past 34 years, the cetacean fauna in the Red Sea appears to be composed of a total of 16 species: three Mysticetes
(Bryde’s whale, Balaenoptera edeni; Omura’s whale, B. omurai; and humpback whale, Megaptera novaeangliae) and
13 Odontocetes (dwarf sperm whale, Kogia sima; killer whale, Orcinus orca; false killer whale, Pseudorca crassidens;
short-finned pilot whale, Globicephala macrorhynchus; Risso’s dolphin, Grampus griseus; Indian Ocean humpback
dolphin, Sousa plumbea; rough-toothed dolphin, Steno bredanensis; Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, Tursiops
aduncus; common bottlenose dolphin, T. truncatus; pantropical spotted dolphin, Stenella attenuata; spinner dolphin,
S. longirostris; striped dolphin, S. coeruleoalba; Indo-Pacific common dolphin, Delphinus delphis tropicalis).
This review presents the very first documented and confirmed sightings of B. omurai, K. sima and S. bredanensis
in the Red Sea. Of all the above species, however, only nine (Bryde’s whale, false killer whale, Risso’s dolphin, Indian
Ocean humpback dolphin, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin, common bottlenose dolphin, pantropical spotted dolphin,
spinner dolphin, and Indo-Pacific common dolphin) appeared to occur regularly in the Red Sea, the remaining seven
only occurring sporadically as vagrants from the Indian Ocean. Even regular species appeared not to be uniformly
distributed throughout the Red Sea, e.g., with Indo-Pacific common dolphins mostly limited to the southern portion
of the region, and the Gulf of Suez only hosting the two bottlenose dolphin species and Indian Ocean humpback
dolphins. No convincing evidence was found of the Red Sea occurrence of two whale species mentioned in the
literature: the common minke whale, Balaenoptera acutorostrata, and the sperm whale, Physeter macrocephalus.
The absence from the region of deep diving species (e.g., Ziphiidae and the sperm whale) can be explained by the
geomorphology of the Straits of Bab al Mandab, with its extended shallow sill likely to discourage incursions by
such species into the Red Sea. The coordinated effort and the different expertise of the authors has contributed to
amending previous mistakes and inaccuracies, verifying and validating specimen identification, highlighting features
of relevance for species taxonomy and, most importantly, drawing a fundamental baseline to inform conservation of
cetaceans in the Red Sea
Baldwin,R.M.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Van Waerebeek,K.,Minton,G.
The Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin of the Arabian region: a status review Journal Article
In: Aquatic Mammals, vol. 30, no. 319, pp. 111-124, 2004.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, Arabian Gulf, Arabian region, Arabian Sea, associations, behaviour, Boat traffic, cetacean, cetaceans, conservation, development, Distribution, dolphin, dolphins, ecology, Fisheries, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, humpback dolphins, incidental capture, military, museum specimens, nets, Oman, pollution, population, populations, Red Sea, status, Stock identity, Strandings, tursiops
@article{,
title = {The Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin of the Arabian region: a status review},
author = {Baldwin,R.M.,Collins,T.J.Q.,Van Waerebeek,K.,Minton,G.},
url = {https://www.aquaticmammalsjournal.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=247:the-indo-pacific-humpback-dolphin-of-the-arabian-region-a-status-review&catid=13&Itemid=157},
year = {2004},
date = {2004-01-01},
journal = {Aquatic Mammals},
volume = {30},
number = {319},
pages = {111-124},
abstract = {Records of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin sightings, strandings, and museum specimens in the Arabian region were compiled and used to review the distribution and status of this species. Nominal usage of Sousa chinensis (Osbeck, 1765) has been retained as a pragmatic measure, although the species present in the region resembles Sousa plumbea (G. Cuvier, 1828). Little is known about the ecology of this species in the region. Most available information on S. chinensis in the region originates from the Sultanate of Oman, where this species is among the most commonly recorded cetaceans. However, there is no absolute measure of abundance for anywhere in the region and the status of the species is unknown. Distribution is described for the region to include much of the Arabian (Persian) Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea, but notably excludes the Gulf of Oman. This discontinuous distribution suggests the possible presence of discrete populations within the region. Beach-cast/dead individuals represent nearly two-thirds of all records (n=303) of this species in Oman. Live sightings indicate unusually large group sizes (up to 100 individuals) in the Arabian Sea and Arabian Gulf. Occasional associations with Tursiops sp. and Delphinus capensis tropicalis were documented. Mating behaviour and the presence of calves were recorded in the months of April and May and calves are also reported in June, October, November and December. Threats to humpback dolphins in the Arabian region include incidental capture in fishing nets, coastal and offshore development (e.g. land reclamation, dredging, port and harbour construction), pollution, boat traffic, oil and gas exploration (including seismic surveying), military exercises and biotoxins associated with red tide events. Evidence for historic and current directed catches of S. chinensis is limited, but opportunistic hunting may occur. Intraspecific variation in cranial measurements of individuals from the Arabian Sea coast of Oman fall within relative values found in individuals from the Saudi Arabian Gulf coast. Cranial abnormalities were few. Recommendations are made for conservation management-oriented research focusing on stock identity and status assessments, as well as for monitoring of fisheries bycatch, clearer definition of other threats, continued specimen and sample collection and training of local scientists.},
keywords = {abundance, Arabian Gulf, Arabian region, Arabian Sea, associations, behaviour, Boat traffic, cetacean, cetaceans, conservation, development, Distribution, dolphin, dolphins, ecology, Fisheries, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, humpback dolphins, incidental capture, military, museum specimens, nets, Oman, pollution, population, populations, Red Sea, status, Stock identity, Strandings, tursiops},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Records of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin sightings, strandings, and museum specimens in the Arabian region were compiled and used to review the distribution and status of this species. Nominal usage of Sousa chinensis (Osbeck, 1765) has been retained as a pragmatic measure, although the species present in the region resembles Sousa plumbea (G. Cuvier, 1828). Little is known about the ecology of this species in the region. Most available information on S. chinensis in the region originates from the Sultanate of Oman, where this species is among the most commonly recorded cetaceans. However, there is no absolute measure of abundance for anywhere in the region and the status of the species is unknown. Distribution is described for the region to include much of the Arabian (Persian) Gulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea, but notably excludes the Gulf of Oman. This discontinuous distribution suggests the possible presence of discrete populations within the region. Beach-cast/dead individuals represent nearly two-thirds of all records (n=303) of this species in Oman. Live sightings indicate unusually large group sizes (up to 100 individuals) in the Arabian Sea and Arabian Gulf. Occasional associations with Tursiops sp. and Delphinus capensis tropicalis were documented. Mating behaviour and the presence of calves were recorded in the months of April and May and calves are also reported in June, October, November and December. Threats to humpback dolphins in the Arabian region include incidental capture in fishing nets, coastal and offshore development (e.g. land reclamation, dredging, port and harbour construction), pollution, boat traffic, oil and gas exploration (including seismic surveying), military exercises and biotoxins associated with red tide events. Evidence for historic and current directed catches of S. chinensis is limited, but opportunistic hunting may occur. Intraspecific variation in cranial measurements of individuals from the Arabian Sea coast of Oman fall within relative values found in individuals from the Saudi Arabian Gulf coast. Cranial abnormalities were few. Recommendations are made for conservation management-oriented research focusing on stock identity and status assessments, as well as for monitoring of fisheries bycatch, clearer definition of other threats, continued specimen and sample collection and training of local scientists.
Beal,L.M.,Chereskin,T.K.,Bryden,H.L.,Ffield,A.
Variability of water properties, heat and salt fluxes in the Arabian Sea, between the onset and wane of the 1995 southwest monsoon Journal Article
In: Deep-Sea Research Part II, vol. 50, no. 42, pp. 2049-2075, 2003.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, density, depth, Indian Ocean, Oceanic, Red Sea, Upwelling
@article{,
title = {Variability of water properties, heat and salt fluxes in the Arabian Sea, between the onset and wane of the 1995 southwest monsoon},
author = {Beal,L.M.,Chereskin,T.K.,Bryden,H.L.,Ffield,A.},
year = {2003},
date = {2003-01-01},
journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},
volume = {50},
number = {42},
pages = {2049-2075},
abstract = {We investigate the variability of the circulation,water masses,heat and salt fluxes in the Arabian Sea over the course of the southwest monsoon. Two zonal sections taken along 8§30'N in 1995 as part of the Indian Ocean WOCE hydrographic program are used. The first was occupied in early June at the onset of the southwest monsoon winds,the second in late September,at the wane of the monsoon. The September section was found to be generally warmer (+0.32§C) and saltier (+0.04) than in June,despite a 50mm drop in mean sea level. Therefore,the common assumption that an increase in sea-surface height follows an increase in heat content (the hydrostatic response) does not hold. Instead,we conclude that the heat content increases due to the advection of Arabian Sea Surface Water and Red Sea Water onto the section from the north,and the drop in sea level is due to a loss of mass,rather than heat,from the water column. There are large uncertainties involved in diagnosing the heat-flux divergence across the Arabian Sea, because the seasonal variability of the water masses and circulation in the basin mean that our data are not representative of a steady state. We treat each section separately and find an oceanic heat export of -0.72PW in June and -0.19PW in September,implying a basin cooling rate of about -0.36PW in June and a slight heating of 0.12PW in September. In June the mass and heat balances are dominated by the Ekman transport and the Somali Current,with very flat density surfaces resulting in a small interior geostrophic transport. By September the Ekman transport has reduced,and it is primarily the interior transport that balances a strong Somali Current. There are two main overturning cells in June and September: A shallow one of approximate magnitude 15 Sv in June and 0 Sv in September, which reaches depths of no more than 500m and is driven by Ekman divergence at the surface; and a deep cell of magnitude 1 Sv representing a weak inflow and subsequent upwelling of Circumpolar Deep water. The deep cell implies a basin-averaged upwelling velocity of 3.2x10-5 cm s-1 through 2200 m.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, density, depth, Indian Ocean, Oceanic, Red Sea, Upwelling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
We investigate the variability of the circulation,water masses,heat and salt fluxes in the Arabian Sea over the course of the southwest monsoon. Two zonal sections taken along 8§30'N in 1995 as part of the Indian Ocean WOCE hydrographic program are used. The first was occupied in early June at the onset of the southwest monsoon winds,the second in late September,at the wane of the monsoon. The September section was found to be generally warmer (+0.32§C) and saltier (+0.04) than in June,despite a 50mm drop in mean sea level. Therefore,the common assumption that an increase in sea-surface height follows an increase in heat content (the hydrostatic response) does not hold. Instead,we conclude that the heat content increases due to the advection of Arabian Sea Surface Water and Red Sea Water onto the section from the north,and the drop in sea level is due to a loss of mass,rather than heat,from the water column. There are large uncertainties involved in diagnosing the heat-flux divergence across the Arabian Sea, because the seasonal variability of the water masses and circulation in the basin mean that our data are not representative of a steady state. We treat each section separately and find an oceanic heat export of -0.72PW in June and -0.19PW in September,implying a basin cooling rate of about -0.36PW in June and a slight heating of 0.12PW in September. In June the mass and heat balances are dominated by the Ekman transport and the Somali Current,with very flat density surfaces resulting in a small interior geostrophic transport. By September the Ekman transport has reduced,and it is primarily the interior transport that balances a strong Somali Current. There are two main overturning cells in June and September: A shallow one of approximate magnitude 15 Sv in June and 0 Sv in September, which reaches depths of no more than 500m and is driven by Ekman divergence at the surface; and a deep cell of magnitude 1 Sv representing a weak inflow and subsequent upwelling of Circumpolar Deep water. The deep cell implies a basin-averaged upwelling velocity of 3.2x10-5 cm s-1 through 2200 m.
Kindle,J.C.,Arnone,R.A.
A review of the surface circulation of the Northern Arabian Sea Conference
no. 395, Sultan Qaboos University, 2001.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Fisheries, Indian Ocean, Oman, Red Sea
@conference{,
title = {A review of the surface circulation of the Northern Arabian Sea},
author = {Kindle,J.C.,Arnone,R.A.},
year = {2001},
date = {2001-01-01},
journal = {Proceedings of the First International Conference on Fisheries, Aquaculture and Environment in the Northwest Indian Ocean},
number = {395},
pages = {113-122},
publisher = {Sultan Qaboos University},
abstract = {This paper reviews observational and modeling studies of the seasonal variation of the western boundary circulation in the Arabian Sea with a focus on results from recent field programs as part of the JGOFS Arabian Sea Expedition of 1994-1995 and the World Ocean Circulation Experiment activities from 1994-1996. Emphasis is placed on the circulation features north of 5 degrees N. A recent report on the interaction of these features with the circulations of the Gulfs of Aden and Oman and, ultimately, their respective marginal seas, the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf can be found in Johns et al. 2000. The paper focuses on the spring intermonsoon transition and indications that current and wind patterns may begin their reversal to the Southwest pattern as early as April, setting the stage for the physical and biochemical responses to the primary monsoon onset in June.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, Fisheries, Indian Ocean, Oman, Red Sea},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
This paper reviews observational and modeling studies of the seasonal variation of the western boundary circulation in the Arabian Sea with a focus on results from recent field programs as part of the JGOFS Arabian Sea Expedition of 1994-1995 and the World Ocean Circulation Experiment activities from 1994-1996. Emphasis is placed on the circulation features north of 5 degrees N. A recent report on the interaction of these features with the circulations of the Gulfs of Aden and Oman and, ultimately, their respective marginal seas, the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf can be found in Johns et al. 2000. The paper focuses on the spring intermonsoon transition and indications that current and wind patterns may begin their reversal to the Southwest pattern as early as April, setting the stage for the physical and biochemical responses to the primary monsoon onset in June.
Wilson,S.C.,Klaus,R.
The Gulf of Aden Book
Pergamon, Elsevier Science, 2000.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, conservation, coral, dolphin, dolphins, East Africa, enforcement, Fisheries, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean, management, marine, mortality, oceanography, Oman, pollution, productivity, Red Sea, turtles
@book{,
title = {The Gulf of Aden},
author = {Wilson,S.C.,Klaus,R.},
year = {2000},
date = {2000-01-01},
journal = {Seas at the Millennium: an Environmental Evaluation: Volume II Regional Chapters: The Indian Ocean to the Pacific},
number = {510},
pages = {47-61},
publisher = {Pergamon, Elsevier Science},
abstract = {The Gulf of Aden lies between southern Arabia and the Horn of Africa and connects with the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. The Socotra Archipelago lies at its entrance, off the Horn of Africa. The largest influence comes from the reversing monsoon system with strong and persistent winds that blow from the southwest in summer, and from the northeast in winter. These also cause a reversal in the direction of surface currents. Associated with the summer monsoon are upwelling areas along the eastern coast of Yemen, and one centred on the Somali coast southwest of Socotra. Both have a profound effect on coastal habitats and stimulate high marine productivity which supports a rich fishery. Marine biodiversity is relatively high since the area is a transition zone between the Red Sea, Southern Arabia and East Africa. Terrestrial diversity, particularly in the flora of Socotra, is also elevated by high levels of endemism. Coasts are mainly exposed sandy beaches separated by rocky headlands. Coral communities and reefs have developed most notably in Djibouti and offshore islands of Somalia. Seagrasses are relatively uncommon, and mangrove stands are most abundant to the west and southwest. A striking feature of rocky shores is the abundant macroalgae that appears following the onset of the Southwest Monsoon in particular. Green turtles nest in tens of thousands, and thousands of dolphins have also recently been observed. Perhaps the most serious single threat to sustainable use of marine resources comes from overfishing, particularly by industrial fleets that operate with or without licenses. Some stocks have collapsed or are showing signs of strain, including cuttlefish, shark and lobster. Wildlife species are also harvested and incidental mortality appears high. Levels of pollution are low except around larger towns where sewage and solid wastes are starting to affect resources. Chronic oil pollution originating from tankers is also cause for concern, but levels appear to be low. Harsh environmental conditions and lack of infrastructure limits exploitation of coastal resources and traditional methods of limiting exploitation are still effective. Political instability and unrest, and lack of funding have hampered coastal management, though a strategic action plan for the conservation and protection of the marine environment has recently been prepared by PERSGA as a crucial first step. There are only two small marine parks in the region, both in Djibouti.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, conservation, coral, dolphin, dolphins, East Africa, enforcement, Fisheries, Gulf of Aden, Indian Ocean, management, marine, mortality, oceanography, Oman, pollution, productivity, Red Sea, turtles},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
The Gulf of Aden lies between southern Arabia and the Horn of Africa and connects with the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. The Socotra Archipelago lies at its entrance, off the Horn of Africa. The largest influence comes from the reversing monsoon system with strong and persistent winds that blow from the southwest in summer, and from the northeast in winter. These also cause a reversal in the direction of surface currents. Associated with the summer monsoon are upwelling areas along the eastern coast of Yemen, and one centred on the Somali coast southwest of Socotra. Both have a profound effect on coastal habitats and stimulate high marine productivity which supports a rich fishery. Marine biodiversity is relatively high since the area is a transition zone between the Red Sea, Southern Arabia and East Africa. Terrestrial diversity, particularly in the flora of Socotra, is also elevated by high levels of endemism. Coasts are mainly exposed sandy beaches separated by rocky headlands. Coral communities and reefs have developed most notably in Djibouti and offshore islands of Somalia. Seagrasses are relatively uncommon, and mangrove stands are most abundant to the west and southwest. A striking feature of rocky shores is the abundant macroalgae that appears following the onset of the Southwest Monsoon in particular. Green turtles nest in tens of thousands, and thousands of dolphins have also recently been observed. Perhaps the most serious single threat to sustainable use of marine resources comes from overfishing, particularly by industrial fleets that operate with or without licenses. Some stocks have collapsed or are showing signs of strain, including cuttlefish, shark and lobster. Wildlife species are also harvested and incidental mortality appears high. Levels of pollution are low except around larger towns where sewage and solid wastes are starting to affect resources. Chronic oil pollution originating from tankers is also cause for concern, but levels appear to be low. Harsh environmental conditions and lack of infrastructure limits exploitation of coastal resources and traditional methods of limiting exploitation are still effective. Political instability and unrest, and lack of funding have hampered coastal management, though a strategic action plan for the conservation and protection of the marine environment has recently been prepared by PERSGA as a crucial first step. There are only two small marine parks in the region, both in Djibouti.
Baldwin,R.,Gallagher,M.,Van Waerebeek,K.
A review of cetaceans from waters off the Arabian Peninsula Book
Backhuys Publishers, 1999, ISBN: Gianna's files.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, cetacean, cetaceans, Distribution, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Oman, Red Sea, status
@book{,
title = {A review of cetaceans from waters off the Arabian Peninsula},
author = {Baldwin,R.,Gallagher,M.,Van Waerebeek,K.},
issn = {Gianna's files},
year = {1999},
date = {1999-01-01},
journal = {The Natural History of Oman: A Festschrift for Michael Gallagher},
number = {307},
pages = {161-189},
publisher = {Backhuys Publishers},
abstract = {The paper summarizes the distribution and status of all cetaceans in the Arabian peninsula.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, cetacean, cetaceans, Distribution, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Oman, Red Sea, status},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
The paper summarizes the distribution and status of all cetaceans in the Arabian peninsula.
Baldwin,R.M.,Gallagher,M.,Van Waerebeek,K.
A review of cetaceans from waters off the Arabian Peninsula Book
Backhuys Publishers, 1999, ISBN: Gianna's files.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, cetacean, cetaceans, Distribution, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, history, Oman, Red Sea, status
@book{,
title = {A review of cetaceans from waters off the Arabian Peninsula},
author = {Baldwin,R.M.,Gallagher,M.,Van Waerebeek,K.},
issn = {Gianna's files},
year = {1999},
date = {1999-01-01},
journal = {The Natural History of Oman: A Festschrift for Michael Gallagher},
number = {320},
pages = {161-189},
publisher = {Backhuys Publishers},
abstract = {The paper summarizes the distribution and status of all cetaceans in the Arabian peninsula.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, cetacean, cetaceans, Distribution, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, history, Oman, Red Sea, status},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
The paper summarizes the distribution and status of all cetaceans in the Arabian peninsula.
Smeenk,C.,Addink,M.J.,Van den Berg,A.B.,Bosman C.A.W.,Cad‚e,G.C.
Sightings of Journal Article
In: Bonn.Zool.Beitr., no. 232, pp. 389 -398, 1996.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabia, D.capensis, Delphinus tropicalis, Distribution, Indian Ocean, population, Red Sea, skulls, taxonomy
@article{,
title = {Sightings of },
author = {Smeenk,C.,Addink,M.J.,Van den Berg,A.B.,Bosman C.A.W.,Cad‚e,G.C.},
year = {1996},
date = {1996-01-01},
journal = {Bonn.Zool.Beitr.},
number = {232},
pages = {389 -398},
abstract = {Delphinus tropicalis Van Bree, 1971 is an extremely long-beaked form occurring in neritic habitats in the northern Indian Ocean and neighbouring seas. In June 1984 and March 1993 we observed dolphins in the southern Red Sea which agreed with the external characters described for this form. The animals were identified with tropicalis by their most prominent feature: a very long beak as compared to D. delphis L., the taxonomic history and distribution of D. tropicalis is reviewed. A limited study of six Delphinus skulls from the Arabian peninsula suggests that D. tropicalis and D. capensis cannot be readily separated. It is suggested that D. tropicalis may constitute a very long-beaked form or population of D. capensis.},
keywords = {Arabia, D.capensis, Delphinus tropicalis, Distribution, Indian Ocean, population, Red Sea, skulls, taxonomy},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Delphinus tropicalis Van Bree, 1971 is an extremely long-beaked form occurring in neritic habitats in the northern Indian Ocean and neighbouring seas. In June 1984 and March 1993 we observed dolphins in the southern Red Sea which agreed with the external characters described for this form. The animals were identified with tropicalis by their most prominent feature: a very long beak as compared to D. delphis L., the taxonomic history and distribution of D. tropicalis is reviewed. A limited study of six Delphinus skulls from the Arabian peninsula suggests that D. tropicalis and D. capensis cannot be readily separated. It is suggested that D. tropicalis may constitute a very long-beaked form or population of D. capensis.
Weitkowitz, W.
Sightings of whales and dolphins in the Middle East (Cetacea) Journal Article
In: Zoology in the Middle East, vol. 6, no. 252, pp. 5-12, 1992.
Abstract | Links | BibTeX | Tags: Africa, Arabia, Arabian Sea, dolphin, Gulf of Aden, Middle East, Persian Gulf, Red Sea, whale
@article{,
title = {Sightings of whales and dolphins in the Middle East (Cetacea)},
author = {Weitkowitz, W.},
url = {https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09397140.1992.10637606},
year = {1992},
date = {1992-01-01},
journal = {Zoology in the Middle East},
volume = {6},
number = {252},
pages = {5-12},
abstract = {A list of 70 field observations of whales and dolphins is presented, which were made whilst travelling in the Eastern Mcditcrrancan Sea, the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, and in the northwestern Indian Ocean. The data refer to 12 species: Sousa plumbea, Tursiops aduncus, Tursiops truncatus, Stenella coeruleoalba, Grampus griseus, Pseudorca crassidens, Peponocephala electra, Ziphius cavirostris, Kogia sp., Physeter macrocephalus, Balaenoptera musculus, and Megaptera novaeangliae.},
keywords = {Africa, Arabia, Arabian Sea, dolphin, Gulf of Aden, Middle East, Persian Gulf, Red Sea, whale},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
A list of 70 field observations of whales and dolphins is presented, which were made whilst travelling in the Eastern Mcditcrrancan Sea, the Red Sea, the Gulf of Aden, the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Sea, and in the northwestern Indian Ocean. The data refer to 12 species: Sousa plumbea, Tursiops aduncus, Tursiops truncatus, Stenella coeruleoalba, Grampus griseus, Pseudorca crassidens, Peponocephala electra, Ziphius cavirostris, Kogia sp., Physeter macrocephalus, Balaenoptera musculus, and Megaptera novaeangliae.
De Silva,P.H.D.H..
Cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) recorded off Sri Lanka, India, from the Arabian Sea and Gulf, Gulf of Aden and from the Red Sea Journal Article
In: Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society, vol. 84 , no. 357, pp. 505-525, 1987.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, Arabia, Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, behaviour, Blue whale, cetacea, cetacean, cetaceans, Delphinus tropicalis, dolphin, dolphins, fin whale, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, India, Indian Ocean, mammals, marine, migration, Neophocaena phocaenoides, Oceanic, Oman, Pakistan, Porpoise, Red Sea, sanctuaries, skull, Sri Lanka, stranding, Strandings, survey, whale, whales
@article{,
title = {Cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) recorded off Sri Lanka, India, from the Arabian Sea and Gulf, Gulf of Aden and from the Red Sea },
author = {De Silva,P.H.D.H..},
year = {1987},
date = {1987-01-01},
journal = {Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society},
volume = {84 },
number = {357},
pages = {505-525},
abstract = {Cetacea is a highly specialized oceanic group of mammals with several of its species undertaking long migrations, often exceeding thousand miles during a single journey. During these migrations from cold polar and subpolar seas to warmer tropical and subtropical waters and their return to polar seas in summer both individual and mass strandings have very often occurred in many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, India and the Arabian Gulf. The Cetacean records dealt with in this paper are of countries which lie at the extreme southern margin of the vast land mass of Asia with no land other than a few islands and vast stretches of the Indian Ocean between them and the Antarctica. Sri Lanka, in view of her geographic position at the southern extremity of this vast land mass (5ø 55' and 9§51'N latitude and 79§41' and 81§ 54' E longitude) has become a passing point in the movement of oceanic species including the larger whales. It has been suggested by Deraniyagala (1945, 1960b) that the movement of larger species towards the tropics from the southern temperate zone is partly associated with the periodic influx of Antarctic water toward the tropics. It is however, now fairly established that several larger species such as the Blue whale, the Fin whale and the Humpback whale show a regular migratory cycle. The majority of strandings recorded in this paper deal with individual strandings. Nevertheless there have been instances of both mass stranding and of apparent suicidal behaviour. This paper deals with 30 Cetacean species from the region. Of these records, records from Sri Lanka total 23 species, from India 24 species, from Pakistan 17 species, from the Gulf of Oman 10 species, from the Arabian Gulf 9 species, from the Gulf of Aden 6 species and from the Red Sea 7 species. Reference is also made to a skull of Delphinus tropicalis van Bree in the Colombo Museum (Skull No. 15 B) which appears to be its first record from Sri Lanka. Mention is also made of a specimen of Neophocaena phocaenoides (G. Cuvier) collected from the Wadge Bank by the Smithsonian Carangid Survey Team in March 1970 and of two incomplete skeletons of Balaenoptera physalus (Linn‚) (probably mother and calf) in the Zoological Museum, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All these specimens were identified by me. It is evident from this study that our present knowledge of the Cetacean fauna of the Indian Ocean is far from complete and that much could be accomplished by scientific institutions in the countries in the region by diligently maintaining proper records of sightings and strandings (with photographs) and by undertaking joint study surveys. It is gratifying to note that Sri Lanka, in recent years has been making much headway in this regard. During the last few years the Tulip Expedition led by Dr. Hal Whitehead has been studying the larger whales, especially the larger whales off the east coast and Dr. Stephen Leatherwood Of Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute (Marine Science), San Diego, California has recently published (1985) a summary of available information on the Cetacea of the Indian Ocean Cetacean Sanctuary on behalf of the National Aquatic Resources Agency for Sri Lanka. It is hoped that the present paper will further stimulate interest among the scientific institutions in the region and help to increase our knowledge of a group of remarkable animals at least as far as the species which inhabit and visit our seas.has become a passing point in the movement of oceanic species including the larger whales. It has been suggested by Deraniyagala (1945, 1960b) that the movement of larger species towards the tropics from the southern temperate zone is partly associated with the periodic influx of Antarctic water toward the tropics. It is however, now fairly established that several larger species such as the Blue whale, the Fin whale and the Humpback whale show a regular migratory cycle. The majority of strandings recorded in this paper deal with individual strandings. Nevertheless there have been instances of both mass stranding and of apparent suicidal behaviour. This paper deals with 30 Cetacean species from the region. Of these records, records from Sri Lanka total 23 species, from India 24 species, from Pakistan 17 species, from the Gulf of Oman 10 species, from the Arabian Gulf 9 species, from the Gulf of Aden 6 species and from the Red Sea 7 species. Reference is also made to a skull of Delphinus tropicalis van Bree in the Colombo Museum (Skull No. 15 B) which appears to be its first record from Sri Lanka. Mention is also made of a specimen of Neophocaena phocaenoides (G. Cuvier) collected from the Wadge Bank by the Smithsonian Carangid Survey Team in March 1970 and of two incomplete skeletons of Balaenoptera physalus (Linn‚) (probably mother and calf) in the Zoological Museum, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All these specimens were identified by me. It is evident from this study that our present knowledge of the Cetacean fauna of the Indian Ocean is far from complete and that much could be accomplished by scientific institutions in the countries in the region by diligently maintaining proper records of sightings and strandings (with photographs) and by undertaking joint study surveys. It is gratifying to note that Sri Lanka, in recent years has been making much headway in this regard. During the last few years the Tulip Expedition led by Dr. Hal Whitehead has been studying the larger whales, especially the larger whales off the east coast and Dr. Stephen Leatherwood Of Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute (Marine Science), San Diego, California has recently published (1985) a summary of available information on the Cetacea of the Indian Ocean Cetacean Sanctuary on behalf of the National Aquatic Resources Agency for Sri Lanka. It is hoped that the present paper will further stimulate interest among the scientific institutions in the region and help to increase our knowledge of a group of remarkable animals at least as far as the species which inhabit and visit our seas. A key to the identification of the species recorded from the region is given in Appendix. },
keywords = {Antarctic, Arabia, Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, behaviour, Blue whale, cetacea, cetacean, cetaceans, Delphinus tropicalis, dolphin, dolphins, fin whale, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, India, Indian Ocean, mammals, marine, migration, Neophocaena phocaenoides, Oceanic, Oman, Pakistan, Porpoise, Red Sea, sanctuaries, skull, Sri Lanka, stranding, Strandings, survey, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Cetacea is a highly specialized oceanic group of mammals with several of its species undertaking long migrations, often exceeding thousand miles during a single journey. During these migrations from cold polar and subpolar seas to warmer tropical and subtropical waters and their return to polar seas in summer both individual and mass strandings have very often occurred in many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, India and the Arabian Gulf. The Cetacean records dealt with in this paper are of countries which lie at the extreme southern margin of the vast land mass of Asia with no land other than a few islands and vast stretches of the Indian Ocean between them and the Antarctica. Sri Lanka, in view of her geographic position at the southern extremity of this vast land mass (5ø 55' and 9§51'N latitude and 79§41' and 81§ 54' E longitude) has become a passing point in the movement of oceanic species including the larger whales. It has been suggested by Deraniyagala (1945, 1960b) that the movement of larger species towards the tropics from the southern temperate zone is partly associated with the periodic influx of Antarctic water toward the tropics. It is however, now fairly established that several larger species such as the Blue whale, the Fin whale and the Humpback whale show a regular migratory cycle. The majority of strandings recorded in this paper deal with individual strandings. Nevertheless there have been instances of both mass stranding and of apparent suicidal behaviour. This paper deals with 30 Cetacean species from the region. Of these records, records from Sri Lanka total 23 species, from India 24 species, from Pakistan 17 species, from the Gulf of Oman 10 species, from the Arabian Gulf 9 species, from the Gulf of Aden 6 species and from the Red Sea 7 species. Reference is also made to a skull of Delphinus tropicalis van Bree in the Colombo Museum (Skull No. 15 B) which appears to be its first record from Sri Lanka. Mention is also made of a specimen of Neophocaena phocaenoides (G. Cuvier) collected from the Wadge Bank by the Smithsonian Carangid Survey Team in March 1970 and of two incomplete skeletons of Balaenoptera physalus (Linn‚) (probably mother and calf) in the Zoological Museum, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All these specimens were identified by me. It is evident from this study that our present knowledge of the Cetacean fauna of the Indian Ocean is far from complete and that much could be accomplished by scientific institutions in the countries in the region by diligently maintaining proper records of sightings and strandings (with photographs) and by undertaking joint study surveys. It is gratifying to note that Sri Lanka, in recent years has been making much headway in this regard. During the last few years the Tulip Expedition led by Dr. Hal Whitehead has been studying the larger whales, especially the larger whales off the east coast and Dr. Stephen Leatherwood Of Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute (Marine Science), San Diego, California has recently published (1985) a summary of available information on the Cetacea of the Indian Ocean Cetacean Sanctuary on behalf of the National Aquatic Resources Agency for Sri Lanka. It is hoped that the present paper will further stimulate interest among the scientific institutions in the region and help to increase our knowledge of a group of remarkable animals at least as far as the species which inhabit and visit our seas.has become a passing point in the movement of oceanic species including the larger whales. It has been suggested by Deraniyagala (1945, 1960b) that the movement of larger species towards the tropics from the southern temperate zone is partly associated with the periodic influx of Antarctic water toward the tropics. It is however, now fairly established that several larger species such as the Blue whale, the Fin whale and the Humpback whale show a regular migratory cycle. The majority of strandings recorded in this paper deal with individual strandings. Nevertheless there have been instances of both mass stranding and of apparent suicidal behaviour. This paper deals with 30 Cetacean species from the region. Of these records, records from Sri Lanka total 23 species, from India 24 species, from Pakistan 17 species, from the Gulf of Oman 10 species, from the Arabian Gulf 9 species, from the Gulf of Aden 6 species and from the Red Sea 7 species. Reference is also made to a skull of Delphinus tropicalis van Bree in the Colombo Museum (Skull No. 15 B) which appears to be its first record from Sri Lanka. Mention is also made of a specimen of Neophocaena phocaenoides (G. Cuvier) collected from the Wadge Bank by the Smithsonian Carangid Survey Team in March 1970 and of two incomplete skeletons of Balaenoptera physalus (Linn‚) (probably mother and calf) in the Zoological Museum, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. All these specimens were identified by me. It is evident from this study that our present knowledge of the Cetacean fauna of the Indian Ocean is far from complete and that much could be accomplished by scientific institutions in the countries in the region by diligently maintaining proper records of sightings and strandings (with photographs) and by undertaking joint study surveys. It is gratifying to note that Sri Lanka, in recent years has been making much headway in this regard. During the last few years the Tulip Expedition led by Dr. Hal Whitehead has been studying the larger whales, especially the larger whales off the east coast and Dr. Stephen Leatherwood Of Hubbs-Sea World Research Institute (Marine Science), San Diego, California has recently published (1985) a summary of available information on the Cetacea of the Indian Ocean Cetacean Sanctuary on behalf of the National Aquatic Resources Agency for Sri Lanka. It is hoped that the present paper will further stimulate interest among the scientific institutions in the region and help to increase our knowledge of a group of remarkable animals at least as far as the species which inhabit and visit our seas. A key to the identification of the species recorded from the region is given in Appendix.
Ponomareva,L.A.
Euphausiids of the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea (original title Ehvfauziidy Indijskogo okeana I krasnogo morya) Journal Article
In: Nauka, vol. 1, no. 197, 1975.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, biology, Distribution, Euphausiid, feeding, Indian Ocean, migration, plankton, Red Sea, zooplankton
@article{,
title = {Euphausiids of the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea (original title Ehvfauziidy Indijskogo okeana I krasnogo morya)},
author = {Ponomareva,L.A.},
year = {1975},
date = {1975-01-01},
journal = {Nauka},
volume = {1},
number = {197},
abstract = {The study is mainly based on euphausiid material from 2390 plankton samples collected in the Indian Ocean during Oct-March 1959/60 and 1960/61. Data are presented on the sp composition, biology, vertical and quantitative distribution. The northern Indian Ocean (as far south as 40 degree S) is inhabited by typically tropical euphausiid fauna. The area most rich in euphausiids is the Arabian Sea. The spp most commonly occurring in the 0-200m layer in the Indian Ocean are Euphausia diomedeae, E. distinguenda, Stylocheiron carinatum and Thysanopoda tricuspidata. In the northern Indian Ocean eggs an early larval stages occurred from Jan to June (no observations were made later in the yr), which suggests that euphausiids spawn several times during the yr. The eggs develop very rapidly (within <24h) and so do early larval stages. On reaching the nauplius-2 stage the development slows down and it takes the larva 10-12 days to develop into furcilia-1. The feeding is varied and mixed: none of the spp were observed to feed on phyto- or zooplankton exclusively. Migratory spp show diurnal feeding rhythms. Most of the spp occurring in the upper layers ( down to 500m) are distinct migrants; interzonal spp do not perform significant migrations rarely rising close to the surface and almost never occurring above 50-40m. The Red Sea is inhabited by immigrants from teh Gulf of Aden and by some endemic spp. The spp abundant in the Arabian Sea are also predominant here with the addition of S. affine. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, biology, Distribution, Euphausiid, feeding, Indian Ocean, migration, plankton, Red Sea, zooplankton},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The study is mainly based on euphausiid material from 2390 plankton samples collected in the Indian Ocean during Oct-March 1959/60 and 1960/61. Data are presented on the sp composition, biology, vertical and quantitative distribution. The northern Indian Ocean (as far south as 40 degree S) is inhabited by typically tropical euphausiid fauna. The area most rich in euphausiids is the Arabian Sea. The spp most commonly occurring in the 0-200m layer in the Indian Ocean are Euphausia diomedeae, E. distinguenda, Stylocheiron carinatum and Thysanopoda tricuspidata. In the northern Indian Ocean eggs an early larval stages occurred from Jan to June (no observations were made later in the yr), which suggests that euphausiids spawn several times during the yr. The eggs develop very rapidly (within <24h) and so do early larval stages. On reaching the nauplius-2 stage the development slows down and it takes the larva 10-12 days to develop into furcilia-1. The feeding is varied and mixed: none of the spp were observed to feed on phyto- or zooplankton exclusively. Migratory spp show diurnal feeding rhythms. Most of the spp occurring in the upper layers ( down to 500m) are distinct migrants; interzonal spp do not perform significant migrations rarely rising close to the surface and almost never occurring above 50-40m. The Red Sea is inhabited by immigrants from teh Gulf of Aden and by some endemic spp. The spp abundant in the Arabian Sea are also predominant here with the addition of S. affine.
Weigmann,R.
On the ecology and feeding habits of the euphausiids (Crustacea) in the Arabian Sea (Zur Okologie und Eranhrungsbiologie der Euphausiaceen (Crustacea) im Arabischen Meer) Journal Article
In: Meteor Forschungsergeb., vol. 5, no. 498, pp. 11-52, 1970.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, biology, density, diet, Distribution, ecology, Euphausiid, feeding, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, marine, Oman, population, populations, predation, Red Sea, Upwelling, zooplankton
@article{,
title = {On the ecology and feeding habits of the euphausiids (Crustacea) in the Arabian Sea (Zur Okologie und Eranhrungsbiologie der Euphausiaceen (Crustacea) im Arabischen Meer)},
author = {Weigmann,R.},
year = {1970},
date = {1970-01-01},
journal = {Meteor Forschungsergeb.},
volume = {5},
number = {498},
pages = {11-52},
abstract = {In the present paper, the ecology and feeding habits of euphausiids are described. The samples were taken at the time of the NE-monsoon (1964/65) by R. V. 'Meteor' in the Arabian Sea and adjacent waters. 24 spp were determined. According to distribution of the spp, the following marine areas can be distinguished: Arabian Sea: 24 spp, dominant are Euphausia diomedeae, E. tenera, E. distinguenda, Stylocheiron carinatum. Gulf of Aden: 1 0 spp, dominant are Euphausia diomedeae, E. distinguenda. Red Sea: 6 spp, dominant are Euphausia diomedeae, E. distinguena. Gulf of Oman: 5 spp, dominant are Euphausia distinguenda, Pseudeuphausia latifrons. Persian Gulf: 1 sp- Pseudeuphausia latifrons. The total number of euphausiids indicate the biomass of this group. High densities of euphausiids (200-299 and > 300 individuals/l00 m super(3)) occur in the innermost part of the Gulf of Aden, in the area south of the Euqator near the African east coast, near Karachi (Indian west coast) and in the Persian Gulf. Comparison with data relating to production biology confirms that these are eutrophic zones which coincide with areas in which upwelling occurs at the time of the NE-monsoon. The central part of the Arabian Sea differs from adjacent waters by virtue of less dense euphasiid populations (>199 individuals/lOO m super(3)). Measurements relating to production biology demonstrate a relatively low concentration of primary food sources. Food material was ascertained by analysis of stomach content. The following omnivorous species were examined: Euphausia diomedeae, E. distinguenda, E. tenera, Pseudeuphausia latifronts and Thysanopoda tricuspidata. Apart from crustacean remains large numbers of Foraminifera, Radiolaria, tintinnids, dinoflagellates were found in the stomachs. Quantitatively crustaceans form the most important item in the diet. Food selection on the basis of size an form appears to be restricted to certain genera of tintinnids. The genera Stylocheiron and Nematoscelis are predators. Only crustacean remains were found in the stomachs of Stylocheiron abbreviatum, whereas Radiolaria, Foraminifera and tintinnids occurred to some extent in Nematoscelis sp. Different euphauisiids occupy different positions in the food chain in the Arabian Sea. In omnivorous species the position is variable, since they not only feed by filtering autotrophic and heterotrophic Protista, but also by predation on zooplankton. Carnivorous spp without filtering apparatus feed exclusively on zooolankton of the size of copepods. Only these spp are well established as occupying a higher position in food chain. The parasrtlc protozoan Thalassomyces fagei was found on Euphausia diomedeae, E. tenera, E. distinguenda and E. sanzoi.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, biology, density, diet, Distribution, ecology, Euphausiid, feeding, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, marine, Oman, population, populations, predation, Red Sea, Upwelling, zooplankton},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
In the present paper, the ecology and feeding habits of euphausiids are described. The samples were taken at the time of the NE-monsoon (1964/65) by R. V. 'Meteor' in the Arabian Sea and adjacent waters. 24 spp were determined. According to distribution of the spp, the following marine areas can be distinguished: Arabian Sea: 24 spp, dominant are Euphausia diomedeae, E. tenera, E. distinguenda, Stylocheiron carinatum. Gulf of Aden: 1 0 spp, dominant are Euphausia diomedeae, E. distinguenda. Red Sea: 6 spp, dominant are Euphausia diomedeae, E. distinguena. Gulf of Oman: 5 spp, dominant are Euphausia distinguenda, Pseudeuphausia latifrons. Persian Gulf: 1 sp- Pseudeuphausia latifrons. The total number of euphausiids indicate the biomass of this group. High densities of euphausiids (200-299 and > 300 individuals/l00 m super(3)) occur in the innermost part of the Gulf of Aden, in the area south of the Euqator near the African east coast, near Karachi (Indian west coast) and in the Persian Gulf. Comparison with data relating to production biology confirms that these are eutrophic zones which coincide with areas in which upwelling occurs at the time of the NE-monsoon. The central part of the Arabian Sea differs from adjacent waters by virtue of less dense euphasiid populations (>199 individuals/lOO m super(3)). Measurements relating to production biology demonstrate a relatively low concentration of primary food sources. Food material was ascertained by analysis of stomach content. The following omnivorous species were examined: Euphausia diomedeae, E. distinguenda, E. tenera, Pseudeuphausia latifronts and Thysanopoda tricuspidata. Apart from crustacean remains large numbers of Foraminifera, Radiolaria, tintinnids, dinoflagellates were found in the stomachs. Quantitatively crustaceans form the most important item in the diet. Food selection on the basis of size an form appears to be restricted to certain genera of tintinnids. The genera Stylocheiron and Nematoscelis are predators. Only crustacean remains were found in the stomachs of Stylocheiron abbreviatum, whereas Radiolaria, Foraminifera and tintinnids occurred to some extent in Nematoscelis sp. Different euphauisiids occupy different positions in the food chain in the Arabian Sea. In omnivorous species the position is variable, since they not only feed by filtering autotrophic and heterotrophic Protista, but also by predation on zooplankton. Carnivorous spp without filtering apparatus feed exclusively on zooolankton of the size of copepods. Only these spp are well established as occupying a higher position in food chain. The parasrtlc protozoan Thalassomyces fagei was found on Euphausia diomedeae, E. tenera, E. distinguenda and E. sanzoi.
Chiffings, Anthony.
Marine Region 11: Arabian Seas Book
0000.
BibTeX | Tags: Arabia, Arabian Sea, Iran, Iraq, Marine Protected Area, Oman, Pakistan, Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, UAE
@book{,
title = {Marine Region 11: Arabian Seas},
author = {Chiffings, Anthony.},
journal = {A Global Representative system of Marine Protected Areas},
number = {344},
pages = {39-71},
keywords = {Arabia, Arabian Sea, Iran, Iraq, Marine Protected Area, Oman, Pakistan, Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Saudi Arabia, UAE},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}