Braulik,G.,Ranjbar,S.,Owfi,F.,Aminrad,T.,Dakhteh,S.M.H.,Kamrani,E.,Mohsenizadeh,F.
Marine Mammal Records from Iran Journal Article
In: Journal of Cetacean Research and Management, vol. 11, no. 334, pp. 49-63, 2010.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, bottlenose dolphin, Bryde's whale, Common dolphin, conservation, Distribution, dolphin, dugong, fin whale, Finless Porpoise, fishing gear, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, killer whale, location, mammals, management, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, mortality, mysticete, mysticetes, Oman, Porpoise, Risso's dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, Spinner dolphin, whale, whales
@article{,
title = {Marine Mammal Records from Iran},
author = {Braulik,G.,Ranjbar,S.,Owfi,F.,Aminrad,T.,Dakhteh,S.M.H.,Kamrani,E.,Mohsenizadeh,F.},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Cetacean Research and Management},
volume = {11},
number = {334},
pages = {49-63},
abstract = {A total of 114 marine mammal records of 14 species were compiled from Iranian coastalwaters of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Eighty-one were from the Persian Gulf, 23from the Gulf of Oman and 10 were of unknown location. Records of finless porpoise(Neophocaena phocaenoides) (24), Indo-pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) (22)and Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) (21) were by far the most numerousa probable reflection of their inshore distribution and local abundance. Other speciesrecorded were common dolphin (Delphinus capensis tropicalis), rough-toothed dolphin(Steno bredanensis), striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), spinner dolphin (Stenellalongirostris), Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus), false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens),sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) and dugong (Dugong dugon). Records of 24Mysticetes were compiled, 11 of which were tentatively identified as Bryde's whales(Balaenoptera edeni), three as Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus), three as Humpbackwhales (Megaptera novaeangliae) and the remainder were unidentified. The largest threat tomarine mammals in Iran is likely to be incidental capture in fishing gear. Nine finlessporpoises were recorded as bycatch and this and other coastal species may be declining dueto unsustainable mortality rates. Other threats to the marine environment are discussed andrecommended marine mammal conservation and management small projects are described.},
keywords = {abundance, bottlenose dolphin, Bryde's whale, Common dolphin, conservation, Distribution, dolphin, dugong, fin whale, Finless Porpoise, fishing gear, Gulf of Oman, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, incidental capture, killer whale, location, mammals, management, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, mortality, mysticete, mysticetes, Oman, Porpoise, Risso's dolphin, rough-toothed dolphin, Spinner dolphin, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
A total of 114 marine mammal records of 14 species were compiled from Iranian coastalwaters of the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Eighty-one were from the Persian Gulf, 23from the Gulf of Oman and 10 were of unknown location. Records of finless porpoise(Neophocaena phocaenoides) (24), Indo-pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) (22)and Indo-pacific bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops aduncus) (21) were by far the most numerousa probable reflection of their inshore distribution and local abundance. Other speciesrecorded were common dolphin (Delphinus capensis tropicalis), rough-toothed dolphin(Steno bredanensis), striped dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), spinner dolphin (Stenellalongirostris), Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus), false killer whale (Pseudorca crassidens),sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) and dugong (Dugong dugon). Records of 24Mysticetes were compiled, 11 of which were tentatively identified as Bryde's whales(Balaenoptera edeni), three as Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus), three as Humpbackwhales (Megaptera novaeangliae) and the remainder were unidentified. The largest threat tomarine mammals in Iran is likely to be incidental capture in fishing gear. Nine finlessporpoises were recorded as bycatch and this and other coastal species may be declining dueto unsustainable mortality rates. Other threats to the marine environment are discussed andrecommended marine mammal conservation and management small projects are described.
Hines,E.,Adulyanukosol,K.,Somany,P.,Ath,L.S.,Cox,N.,Boonyanate,P.,Hoa,N.X.
Conservation needs of the dugong Dugong dugon in Cambodia and Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam Journal Article
In: Oryx, vol. 42, no. 386, pp. 113-121, 2008.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: aerial survey, conservation, dugong, education, location, management, marine, nets, population, survey
@article{,
title = {Conservation needs of the dugong Dugong dugon in Cambodia and Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam},
author = {Hines,E.,Adulyanukosol,K.,Somany,P.,Ath,L.S.,Cox,N.,Boonyanate,P.,Hoa,N.X.},
year = {2008},
date = {2008-01-01},
journal = {Oryx},
volume = {42},
number = {386},
pages = {113-121},
abstract = {This research was conducted to assess the location of population groups and conservation issuesaffecting dugongs Dugong dugon along the eastern Gulf of Thailand off Cambodia and Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam.Interviews in fishing communities in 2002 and 2004 along the Cambodian coast revealed that dugongs aresporadically found in fishing nets and their body parts are sold for a relatively large profit. During 4 days ofaerial surveys in Cambodia in 2004 we saw no dugongs. We interviewed villagers in Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam,in 2002 and learnt that dugongs are regularly found and hunted, again for high profits. In both countrieswe recommend that legislation addressing threatened species be strengthened and enforced. In collaborationwith the Cambodian and Vietnamese governments and NGOs, we propose the exploration of alternative nondestructivefishing methods and the initiation of an education campaign based on conservation of marinewildlife and the nearshore environment. National and transboundary management and community-based conservationare required in conjunction with strategies to address overfishing and poverty.},
keywords = {aerial survey, conservation, dugong, education, location, management, marine, nets, population, survey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
This research was conducted to assess the location of population groups and conservation issuesaffecting dugongs Dugong dugon along the eastern Gulf of Thailand off Cambodia and Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam.Interviews in fishing communities in 2002 and 2004 along the Cambodian coast revealed that dugongs aresporadically found in fishing nets and their body parts are sold for a relatively large profit. During 4 days ofaerial surveys in Cambodia in 2004 we saw no dugongs. We interviewed villagers in Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam,in 2002 and learnt that dugongs are regularly found and hunted, again for high profits. In both countrieswe recommend that legislation addressing threatened species be strengthened and enforced. In collaborationwith the Cambodian and Vietnamese governments and NGOs, we propose the exploration of alternative nondestructivefishing methods and the initiation of an education campaign based on conservation of marinewildlife and the nearshore environment. National and transboundary management and community-based conservationare required in conjunction with strategies to address overfishing and poverty.
Zemsky,V.A.
Extermination of populations of commercial whale species and its possible biological consequences Technical Report
no. 268, 2005.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Atlantic, Atlantic Ocean, baleen whale, baleen whales, biological consequences, cetacean, cetaceans, depletion, extermination, mammals, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, oil, population, populations, Southern Hemisphere, Soviet whaling, sperm whale, status, whale, whales, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Extermination of populations of commercial whale species and its possible biological consequences},
author = {Zemsky,V.A.},
year = {2005},
date = {2005-01-01},
number = {268},
pages = {249-259},
abstract = {Cetaceans inhabit practically all seas and oceans of the world and their role in ocean biocenoses is doubtless. Being the source of nutrition and technical resources - oil, meat, etc., - this numrous group of marine mammals had also substantial meaning for the man's economic activity. In a number of coastal regions, some whales are still an important, if not one, source of protein food. All cetaceans can be subdivided into two conditional categories: those which are caught for commerial needs and those which are not. The first group comprises practically all baleen whales, the size of most of which has no analogous in terrestrial mammals, and the sperm whale - the only one of toothed whales. All other cetaceans can be referred to the second group. They are much smaller in size, but more numerous and play not less important role in biocenoses. Some of them were of commercial value in the past and now have lost it almost completely. This brief review pursues three goals: firstly, to reveal the relationship between the population number of the commercial whales and whaling in a historical aspect; secondly, to determine the significance for the estimation of the current status of the large whales' populations of the materials, pulished in 1995, on the largest falsification of statistical data on the Soviet whaling operations in the Southern Hemisphere and in some regions of the Atlantic Ocean, including the Arabian Sea and equatorial waters; thirdly, to try to reveal possible consequences of the drastic depletion of number of the large commerical whales for the ocean biogeocenoses.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Atlantic, Atlantic Ocean, baleen whale, baleen whales, biological consequences, cetacean, cetaceans, depletion, extermination, mammals, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, oil, population, populations, Southern Hemisphere, Soviet whaling, sperm whale, status, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Cetaceans inhabit practically all seas and oceans of the world and their role in ocean biocenoses is doubtless. Being the source of nutrition and technical resources - oil, meat, etc., - this numrous group of marine mammals had also substantial meaning for the man's economic activity. In a number of coastal regions, some whales are still an important, if not one, source of protein food. All cetaceans can be subdivided into two conditional categories: those which are caught for commerial needs and those which are not. The first group comprises practically all baleen whales, the size of most of which has no analogous in terrestrial mammals, and the sperm whale - the only one of toothed whales. All other cetaceans can be referred to the second group. They are much smaller in size, but more numerous and play not less important role in biocenoses. Some of them were of commercial value in the past and now have lost it almost completely. This brief review pursues three goals: firstly, to reveal the relationship between the population number of the commercial whales and whaling in a historical aspect; secondly, to determine the significance for the estimation of the current status of the large whales' populations of the materials, pulished in 1995, on the largest falsification of statistical data on the Soviet whaling operations in the Southern Hemisphere and in some regions of the Atlantic Ocean, including the Arabian Sea and equatorial waters; thirdly, to try to reveal possible consequences of the drastic depletion of number of the large commerical whales for the ocean biogeocenoses.
Mikhalev,Y.A.
Bryde's whales of the Arabian Sea and adjacent waters Technical Report
no. 157, 2002, ISBN: SC/49/035.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Blue whale, blue whales, Bryde's whale, Distribution, IWC, marine, Soviet whaling, stomach contents, whale, whales, whaling
@techreport{,
title = {Bryde's whales of the Arabian Sea and adjacent waters},
author = {Mikhalev,Y.A.},
issn = {SC/49/035},
year = {2002},
date = {2002-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the Scientific Committee of the Internaitonal Whaling Commission},
volume = {SC/49/035},
number = {157},
pages = {1-10},
abstract = {Zemsky and Sazhinov (1982) reported that the Soviet Union continued to take blue whales long after they were protected by the IWC. It became possible to pulish the data about this illegal whaling only after the disintegration of the Soviet Union (Tormosov 1993 - Report on 10th Biennial Meeting of the Society of Marine Mammalogy in Galveston, Texas; Yablokov 1994; Doroshenko 1996; Mikhalev 1997). The most complete available data on Soviet whaling were presented at the 45th and 46th meetings of the IWC and were discussed by the Scientific Committee (Zemsky et al 1995; Tormosov 1995; Zemsky et al 1996). A more detailed comparison between the accurate data and falsified data, which were submitted to the IWC by Soviet whaling fleets, for the period from 1947 to 1972 was published in a separate volume (Zemsky et al 1995, 1996). As a continuation of the recent publication of actual Soviet whaling data, this report presents data on illegal catches of Bryde's whales in the Arabian Sea and adjacent waters up to 5§ - 10§S. Data are presented on sex, size, distribution, stomach contents of whales taken as well as the reproductive state of females and the sizes of fetuses.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Blue whale, blue whales, Bryde's whale, Distribution, IWC, marine, Soviet whaling, stomach contents, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Zemsky and Sazhinov (1982) reported that the Soviet Union continued to take blue whales long after they were protected by the IWC. It became possible to pulish the data about this illegal whaling only after the disintegration of the Soviet Union (Tormosov 1993 - Report on 10th Biennial Meeting of the Society of Marine Mammalogy in Galveston, Texas; Yablokov 1994; Doroshenko 1996; Mikhalev 1997). The most complete available data on Soviet whaling were presented at the 45th and 46th meetings of the IWC and were discussed by the Scientific Committee (Zemsky et al 1995; Tormosov 1995; Zemsky et al 1996). A more detailed comparison between the accurate data and falsified data, which were submitted to the IWC by Soviet whaling fleets, for the period from 1947 to 1972 was published in a separate volume (Zemsky et al 1995, 1996). As a continuation of the recent publication of actual Soviet whaling data, this report presents data on illegal catches of Bryde's whales in the Arabian Sea and adjacent waters up to 5§ - 10§S. Data are presented on sex, size, distribution, stomach contents of whales taken as well as the reproductive state of females and the sizes of fetuses.
Ministry of Regional Municipalities; Environment
National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Technical Report
no. 369, 2001.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: conservation, ecosystem, education, endangered, Fisheries, guiding, habitat, management, marine, objectives, Oman, population, productivity, protected areas, status
@techreport{,
title = {National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan},
author = {Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Environment},
year = {2001},
date = {2001-01-01},
volume = {86/2001},
number = {369},
pages = {1-56},
abstract = {Executive Summary Implementing the Convention on Biological Diversity Biodiversity supports human societies ecologically, economically, culturally and spiritually. Despite its importance, ecosystems are degrading and the species and genetic diversity reducing at an alarming rate due to the impact of growing human population and increasing resource consumption. The global decline of biodiversity is now recognized as one of the most serious environmental issues facing humanity. This inspired the global community to negotiate the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. Delegation from Oman actively participated in these negotiations and the Government of Oman signed the Convention in June 1992 and ratified it in 1994. The three objectives of the Biodiversity Convention are: -the conservation of biodiversity; -the sustainable use of biological resources; and -the fair and equitable sharing of benefits resulting from the use of genetic resources. These objectives form the three pillars of sustainable development, ecological integrity, economic sustainability and social equity thus illustrating the nature and scope of the Convention. As a global instrument, it sets the stage for each nation to assess the adequacy of current efforts to conserve biodiversity and sustainable use of biological resources and to determine how inadequacies will be rectified. One of the key obligations of the signatory parties to the Convention is to prepare a national biodiversity strategy and action plan. Thus, the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan is a response to this obligation. It has been developed to guide the implementation of the Biodiversity Convention in Oman. All strategic directions contained in the Strategy are relevant from a national perspective. The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan recognizes existing constitutional and legislative responsibilities for biodiversity in Oman. It also emphasizes the importance of intergovernmental co-operation to create the policy, management and research to advance ecological management. National and regional governments, sectoral agencies, and other stakeholders including the members of the public, will pursue the implementation of the Strategy as guided by their administrative and fiscal capabilities. Elements of the National Strategy and Action Plan Vision: The National Strategy and Action Plan presents a vision for Oman of: A society that is conscious of the role and issues related to biological diversity, convinced of its responsibilities toward future generations and determined to sustainably use natural resources in harmony with all other living things in accordance with the teachings of Islam. In support of this vision, the Strategy presents a series of guiding principles that provide a foundation for implementation. The Strategy provides a framework for action that will enhance our ability to ensure productivity, diversity and integrity of our natural ecosystems and, as a result, our ability as a nation to develop sustainably. It promotes the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of biological resources, and describes how we will complement international efforts to implement the Convention. Mission: "To conserve the biological diversity of the Sultanate and its terrestrial and marine environment, in accordance with the articles of the Convention on Biological Diversity, for the benefit of the present and future generations of Omanis and for mankind as a whole, with respect to the guiding principles of Islam. " Main strategic goals: -Safeguard habitats and productive renewable resources for rational and sustainable exploitation .-Conserve habitat, plant and animal diversity especially of those uncommon and also of special interest; -Provide a high quality natural environment for recreational and tourist activities; - Improve the understanding of ecosystems and increase resource management capability; - Advocate the need to conserve biodiversity and use biological resources in a sustainable manner; - Develop legislation that insures the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of biological resources; - Develop incentives that will promote, biodiversity conservation and provide employment for local people; - Equitably share the benefits of sustainable resources including genetic resources at local and regional levels. - Promote regional and international collaboration on biodiversity conservation and sustainability of natural resources. Proposed mechanisms for implementation: - Creation of a permanent interministerial biodiversity steering Committee and National Biodiversity office which will be responsible for : 1) the filing of an annual national report on policies, activities and plans aimed at implementing the Strategy; 2) co-ordinating the implementation of national and international elements of the Strategy; 3) recommend measures to permit and encourage non-government participation in the implementation of the Strategy; 4) Regular reporting on the status of biodiversity; and, 5) revision of the strategy after an initial implementation phase of five years. The National Strategy and Action Plan proposes a series of priority actions that are classified according to the following themes involving most sectors of society: .Conservation of Natural Resources (Protected areas, Endangered species, conservation) .Terrestrial and Freshwater Fauna . Marine Life and Fisheries .Terrestrial and Aquatic Flora .Agriculture Resources.Energy Resources .Mineral Resources .Industry, Technology and Services (Biotechnology and Biosafety, Tourism) .Urban Environment .Water Resources .Environmental Emergencies .Participation of the Public, Non-Governmental Organisations and Private Sector .Societal Values (Public awareness, education and training; Environmental impact assessments; Institutional and legal framework) .Quality of Life .Spiritual Values },
keywords = {conservation, ecosystem, education, endangered, Fisheries, guiding, habitat, management, marine, objectives, Oman, population, productivity, protected areas, status},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
Executive Summary Implementing the Convention on Biological Diversity Biodiversity supports human societies ecologically, economically, culturally and spiritually. Despite its importance, ecosystems are degrading and the species and genetic diversity reducing at an alarming rate due to the impact of growing human population and increasing resource consumption. The global decline of biodiversity is now recognized as one of the most serious environmental issues facing humanity. This inspired the global community to negotiate the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity. Delegation from Oman actively participated in these negotiations and the Government of Oman signed the Convention in June 1992 and ratified it in 1994. The three objectives of the Biodiversity Convention are: -the conservation of biodiversity; -the sustainable use of biological resources; and -the fair and equitable sharing of benefits resulting from the use of genetic resources. These objectives form the three pillars of sustainable development, ecological integrity, economic sustainability and social equity thus illustrating the nature and scope of the Convention. As a global instrument, it sets the stage for each nation to assess the adequacy of current efforts to conserve biodiversity and sustainable use of biological resources and to determine how inadequacies will be rectified. One of the key obligations of the signatory parties to the Convention is to prepare a national biodiversity strategy and action plan. Thus, the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan is a response to this obligation. It has been developed to guide the implementation of the Biodiversity Convention in Oman. All strategic directions contained in the Strategy are relevant from a national perspective. The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan recognizes existing constitutional and legislative responsibilities for biodiversity in Oman. It also emphasizes the importance of intergovernmental co-operation to create the policy, management and research to advance ecological management. National and regional governments, sectoral agencies, and other stakeholders including the members of the public, will pursue the implementation of the Strategy as guided by their administrative and fiscal capabilities. Elements of the National Strategy and Action Plan Vision: The National Strategy and Action Plan presents a vision for Oman of: A society that is conscious of the role and issues related to biological diversity, convinced of its responsibilities toward future generations and determined to sustainably use natural resources in harmony with all other living things in accordance with the teachings of Islam. In support of this vision, the Strategy presents a series of guiding principles that provide a foundation for implementation. The Strategy provides a framework for action that will enhance our ability to ensure productivity, diversity and integrity of our natural ecosystems and, as a result, our ability as a nation to develop sustainably. It promotes the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of biological resources, and describes how we will complement international efforts to implement the Convention. Mission: "To conserve the biological diversity of the Sultanate and its terrestrial and marine environment, in accordance with the articles of the Convention on Biological Diversity, for the benefit of the present and future generations of Omanis and for mankind as a whole, with respect to the guiding principles of Islam. " Main strategic goals: -Safeguard habitats and productive renewable resources for rational and sustainable exploitation .-Conserve habitat, plant and animal diversity especially of those uncommon and also of special interest; -Provide a high quality natural environment for recreational and tourist activities; - Improve the understanding of ecosystems and increase resource management capability; - Advocate the need to conserve biodiversity and use biological resources in a sustainable manner; - Develop legislation that insures the conservation of biodiversity and the sustainable use of biological resources; - Develop incentives that will promote, biodiversity conservation and provide employment for local people; - Equitably share the benefits of sustainable resources including genetic resources at local and regional levels. - Promote regional and international collaboration on biodiversity conservation and sustainability of natural resources. Proposed mechanisms for implementation: - Creation of a permanent interministerial biodiversity steering Committee and National Biodiversity office which will be responsible for : 1) the filing of an annual national report on policies, activities and plans aimed at implementing the Strategy; 2) co-ordinating the implementation of national and international elements of the Strategy; 3) recommend measures to permit and encourage non-government participation in the implementation of the Strategy; 4) Regular reporting on the status of biodiversity; and, 5) revision of the strategy after an initial implementation phase of five years. The National Strategy and Action Plan proposes a series of priority actions that are classified according to the following themes involving most sectors of society: .Conservation of Natural Resources (Protected areas, Endangered species, conservation) .Terrestrial and Freshwater Fauna . Marine Life and Fisheries .Terrestrial and Aquatic Flora .Agriculture Resources.Energy Resources .Mineral Resources .Industry, Technology and Services (Biotechnology and Biosafety, Tourism) .Urban Environment .Water Resources .Environmental Emergencies .Participation of the Public, Non-Governmental Organisations and Private Sector .Societal Values (Public awareness, education and training; Environmental impact assessments; Institutional and legal framework) .Quality of Life .Spiritual Values
Wilson,S.,Baldwin,R.M.
Environmental Impact Assessment for Seismic Surveying Block 41-Block 22, Offshore Oman Technical Report
no. 507, 2001.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: assessment, Gulf of Masirah, marine, monitoring, noise pollution, Oman, seismic surveys, survey
@techreport{,
title = {Environmental Impact Assessment for Seismic Surveying Block 41-Block 22, Offshore Oman},
author = {Wilson,S.,Baldwin,R.M.},
year = {2001},
date = {2001-01-01},
number = {507},
pages = {1-83},
abstract = {The report describes the scope of surveying work to be undertaken, and the general parameters of the marine environment that could be impacted. The potential environmental impacts to the seabed, water quality, air quality, wildlife and local communities are discussed, and recommendations for mitigation of these impacts are made. Recommendations re also made for environmental monitoring to take place during the survey.},
keywords = {assessment, Gulf of Masirah, marine, monitoring, noise pollution, Oman, seismic surveys, survey},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
The report describes the scope of surveying work to be undertaken, and the general parameters of the marine environment that could be impacted. The potential environmental impacts to the seabed, water quality, air quality, wildlife and local communities are discussed, and recommendations for mitigation of these impacts are made. Recommendations re also made for environmental monitoring to take place during the survey.
Anon.
Marine Tourism magazinearticle
2000.
BibTeX | Tags: Fisheries, marine, Oman
@magazinearticle{,
title = {Marine Tourism},
author = {Anon.},
year = {2000},
date = {2000-01-01},
journal = {Oman Economic Review},
number = {295},
pages = {19-20},
publisher = {United Media Services},
keywords = {Fisheries, marine, Oman},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {magazinearticle}
}
De Sylva,D.
The need for monitoring of artificial reef structures; Guidelines for an artificial reef monitoring programme for Oman Journal Article
In: Marine Policy, no. 358, pp. 1 -27, 2000.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: artificial reefs, coastal management, Fisheries, marine, monitoring, objectives, Oman, pollution, worldwide
@article{,
title = {The need for monitoring of artificial reef structures; Guidelines for an artificial reef monitoring programme for Oman },
author = {De Sylva,D.},
year = {2000},
date = {2000-01-01},
journal = {Marine Policy},
number = {358},
pages = {1 -27},
abstract = {Globally, 36% of all reefs were classified as threatened by overexploitation, 30% by coastal development, 22% by inland pollution and erosion, and 12% by marine pollution. These human activities coupled with natural disasters have led to reductions in the natural reef systems and marine resources world-wide. Artificial reefs are being deployed in a hope to rehabilitate declining reef systems and enhance fisheries, among other things. In order to assess how successful these structures are in fulfilling their objectives monitoring needs to be carried out. This paper will provide suitable guidelines for a monitoring program to be used on artificial reefs.},
keywords = {artificial reefs, coastal management, Fisheries, marine, monitoring, objectives, Oman, pollution, worldwide},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Globally, 36% of all reefs were classified as threatened by overexploitation, 30% by coastal development, 22% by inland pollution and erosion, and 12% by marine pollution. These human activities coupled with natural disasters have led to reductions in the natural reef systems and marine resources world-wide. Artificial reefs are being deployed in a hope to rehabilitate declining reef systems and enhance fisheries, among other things. In order to assess how successful these structures are in fulfilling their objectives monitoring needs to be carried out. This paper will provide suitable guidelines for a monitoring program to be used on artificial reefs.
Prahl,F.G.,Dymond,J.,Sparrow,M.A.
Annual biomarker record for export production in the central Arabian Sea Journal Article
In: Deep-Sea Research Part II, vol. 47, no. 200, pp. 1581-1604, 2000.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, depletion, marine, plankton, productivity, trap
@article{,
title = {Annual biomarker record for export production in the central Arabian Sea},
author = {Prahl,F.G.,Dymond,J.,Sparrow,M.A.},
year = {2000},
date = {2000-01-01},
journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},
volume = {47},
number = {200},
pages = {1581-1604},
abstract = {The record for plankton biomarkers in sediment trap samples from a one-year experiment in the central Arabian Sea (AS4: 15§59'N 61§30'E) shows variations that reflect changing biological conditions in surface waters. Particulate fluxes of C37-39 alkenones, highly branched C25 isoprenoids (HBI), dinosterol, nC28 12-hydroxy fatty acid, 24-ethylcholesterol, and C30-34 series of pentacyclic triterpanols all displayed distinct maxima at the start and stop of the Northeast (NE) and Southwest (SW) Monsoons. Surface mixing conditions changed rapidly at these times, altering light and nutrient availability, thereby triggering these biomarker signals of export production. Temporal offsets noted in individual biomarker concentrations (per g total organic carbon) at the start of the SW Monsoon suggest succession occurs in the phytoplankton community contributing to organic matter export. Comparable offsets were neither apparent at the start of the less dynamic NE Monsoon nor at the end of the NE or SW Monsoons. Broad concentration maxima for HBI also were observed at the beginning and end of the time-series during the relatively quiescent Fall Intermonsoon period when such features were conspicuously absent for other biomarkers. HBI are reputed biomarkers of Rhizoselenia and Haslea spp., two recognized dominants of diatom biomass in the Arabian Sea. These peaks in biomarker concentration could reflect either changes in the relative proportion of specific organisms that contribute to the upper ocean productivity or enhanced preservation of the biomarkers during times of high export production. In either case, the biomarker record in sediment traps reflects important changes in the biological condition of the upper ocean. All biomarkers except HBI were measurable in surface sediments deposited beneath the trap site. Comparison with concentrations in average sediment trap particles showed each was sensitive to significant ( ~ 99%) degradation, displaying depletion factors relative to TOC of ò4. Clearly, consequences of such high levels of early diagenetic recycling must be considered carefully when conclusions about changes in export production from surface waters in past oceans are drawn from stratigraphic analysis of biomarkers in marine sediments. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, depletion, marine, plankton, productivity, trap},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The record for plankton biomarkers in sediment trap samples from a one-year experiment in the central Arabian Sea (AS4: 15§59'N 61§30'E) shows variations that reflect changing biological conditions in surface waters. Particulate fluxes of C37-39 alkenones, highly branched C25 isoprenoids (HBI), dinosterol, nC28 12-hydroxy fatty acid, 24-ethylcholesterol, and C30-34 series of pentacyclic triterpanols all displayed distinct maxima at the start and stop of the Northeast (NE) and Southwest (SW) Monsoons. Surface mixing conditions changed rapidly at these times, altering light and nutrient availability, thereby triggering these biomarker signals of export production. Temporal offsets noted in individual biomarker concentrations (per g total organic carbon) at the start of the SW Monsoon suggest succession occurs in the phytoplankton community contributing to organic matter export. Comparable offsets were neither apparent at the start of the less dynamic NE Monsoon nor at the end of the NE or SW Monsoons. Broad concentration maxima for HBI also were observed at the beginning and end of the time-series during the relatively quiescent Fall Intermonsoon period when such features were conspicuously absent for other biomarkers. HBI are reputed biomarkers of Rhizoselenia and Haslea spp., two recognized dominants of diatom biomass in the Arabian Sea. These peaks in biomarker concentration could reflect either changes in the relative proportion of specific organisms that contribute to the upper ocean productivity or enhanced preservation of the biomarkers during times of high export production. In either case, the biomarker record in sediment traps reflects important changes in the biological condition of the upper ocean. All biomarkers except HBI were measurable in surface sediments deposited beneath the trap site. Comparison with concentrations in average sediment trap particles showed each was sensitive to significant ( ~ 99%) degradation, displaying depletion factors relative to TOC of ò4. Clearly, consequences of such high levels of early diagenetic recycling must be considered carefully when conclusions about changes in export production from surface waters in past oceans are drawn from stratigraphic analysis of biomarkers in marine sediments.
Roman,M.,Smith,S.,Wishner,K.,Gowing,M.,Zhang,X.S.
Mezozooplankton production and grazing the Arabian Sea Journal Article
In: Deep-Sea Research Part II, vol. 47, no. 452, pp. 1423-1450, 2000.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: abundance, Arabian Sea, ecology, marine, mortality, multivariate, temperature, zooplankton
@article{,
title = {Mezozooplankton production and grazing the Arabian Sea},
author = {Roman,M.,Smith,S.,Wishner,K.,Gowing,M.,Zhang,X.S.},
year = {2000},
date = {2000-01-01},
journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},
volume = {47},
number = {452},
pages = {1423-1450},
abstract = {Growth rates, grazing and fecal pellet production by mesozooplankton size classes in the surface 200 m are compared over two inshore/offshore transects in the Northern Arabian Sea during different monsoon seasons. We derived these rate parameters from measured biomass and several empirical models that estimate copepod production from temperature, body weight and food availability. The multivariate regression published by Hirst and Sheader (1997, Marine Ecology Progress Series, 154, 155-165) gave the most reasonable rate estimates when compared to direct grazing measurements as well as published data on copepod ingestion and growth rates. In general, zooplankton rate estimates were highest at the inshore stations where phytoplankton production and zooplankton biomass were maximum. Overall cruise means of zooplankton biomass and rate estimates during the early and late NE Monsoon, Spring Inter-monsoon and SW Monsoon were not significantly different. The estimated zooplankton community (all size fractions) growth rate averaged 0.12d(-I) over all stations during the different monsoon seasons. Although smaller zooplankton size fractions grew faster, slower growing > 2 mm zooplankton dominated the zooplankton biomass of the Arabian Sea and this resulted in a lower overall community growth rate. Estimated total carbon (phytoplankton, protozoa and detritus) ingestion averaged 44 mM C m(-2) d(-I), which was approximately 40% of primary production, Expressed as a percentage ofbiomass, we found that zooplankton ingested approximately 400/0 of their body carbon d( -1 ). Zooplankton fecal pellet production averaged 13 mM C m(-2) d(-I) or roughly 12% of primary production. This estimated fecal pellet production was greater than measurements of the export flux during the NE Monsoon and Spring Intermonsoon. However, estimated fecal pellet production was less than measured export flux during the SW Monsoon when sinking phytoplankton likely contributed directly to the export flux. Our data suggest that relative to other ocean basins, the grazing impact of mesozooplankton is significant in the Arabian Sea as a consequence of the high zooplankton biomass, abundance of diatoms, and warm temperatures, which result in high zooplankton metabolic demands and growth rates. The observation that the average zooplankton biomass ( 110 mM C m( -2¯) did not change significantly over the monsoon seasons suggests that zooplankton production (13 mM C m(-2) d(-I)) and zooplankton mortality were similar over the study interval. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.},
keywords = {abundance, Arabian Sea, ecology, marine, mortality, multivariate, temperature, zooplankton},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Growth rates, grazing and fecal pellet production by mesozooplankton size classes in the surface 200 m are compared over two inshore/offshore transects in the Northern Arabian Sea during different monsoon seasons. We derived these rate parameters from measured biomass and several empirical models that estimate copepod production from temperature, body weight and food availability. The multivariate regression published by Hirst and Sheader (1997, Marine Ecology Progress Series, 154, 155-165) gave the most reasonable rate estimates when compared to direct grazing measurements as well as published data on copepod ingestion and growth rates. In general, zooplankton rate estimates were highest at the inshore stations where phytoplankton production and zooplankton biomass were maximum. Overall cruise means of zooplankton biomass and rate estimates during the early and late NE Monsoon, Spring Inter-monsoon and SW Monsoon were not significantly different. The estimated zooplankton community (all size fractions) growth rate averaged 0.12d(-I) over all stations during the different monsoon seasons. Although smaller zooplankton size fractions grew faster, slower growing > 2 mm zooplankton dominated the zooplankton biomass of the Arabian Sea and this resulted in a lower overall community growth rate. Estimated total carbon (phytoplankton, protozoa and detritus) ingestion averaged 44 mM C m(-2) d(-I), which was approximately 40% of primary production, Expressed as a percentage ofbiomass, we found that zooplankton ingested approximately 400/0 of their body carbon d( -1 ). Zooplankton fecal pellet production averaged 13 mM C m(-2) d(-I) or roughly 12% of primary production. This estimated fecal pellet production was greater than measurements of the export flux during the NE Monsoon and Spring Intermonsoon. However, estimated fecal pellet production was less than measured export flux during the SW Monsoon when sinking phytoplankton likely contributed directly to the export flux. Our data suggest that relative to other ocean basins, the grazing impact of mesozooplankton is significant in the Arabian Sea as a consequence of the high zooplankton biomass, abundance of diatoms, and warm temperatures, which result in high zooplankton metabolic demands and growth rates. The observation that the average zooplankton biomass ( 110 mM C m( -2¯) did not change significantly over the monsoon seasons suggests that zooplankton production (13 mM C m(-2) d(-I)) and zooplankton mortality were similar over the study interval. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
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.
Witter,A.E.,Lewis,B.L.,Luther III,G.W.
Iron speciation in the Arabian Sea Journal Article
In: Deep-Sea Research Part II, vol. 47, no. 264, pp. 1517-1539, 2000.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, Atlantic, Atlantic Ocean, depth, marine, oxygen minimum, Upwelling
@article{,
title = {Iron speciation in the Arabian Sea},
author = {Witter,A.E.,Lewis,B.L.,Luther III,G.W.},
year = {2000},
date = {2000-01-01},
journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},
volume = {47},
number = {264},
pages = {1517-1539},
abstract = {Fe(III) speciation was measured in seawater collected as part of the United States Joint Global Ocean Flux (US JGOFS) Arabian Sea Process Study, Cruise TN045, March 14-April 10, 1995. The Fe-binding capacity of organic seawater ligands was measured in filtered seawater (<0.4 æm) collected from surface depths and throughout the oxygen minimum zone (OMZ). Seawaters from three stations on the southern line (S2, S9, and S11) were examined. Total Fe concentrations measured at the three sites ranged from: 1.25 ñ 0.21 nM to 1.30 ñ 0.01 nM (S2); 1.67 ñ 0.50 nM to 2.63 ñ 0.54 nM (S9); and 1.40 ñ 0.11 nM to 1.70 ñ 0.29 nM (S11). Cathodic stripping voltammetry (CSV) with 1-nitroso-2-napthol (1N2N) as the competitive ligand (pH 6.9) was used to determine conditional stability constants and Fe-binding ligand concentrations in seawater. Conditional stability constants for FeL complexes ranged from log KFeL = 21.6 ñ 0.1 to 22.5 ñ 0.9 at the three sites. Total ligand concentrations ranged from 1.47 ñ 0.06 nM to 6.33 ñ 1.16 nM over all sites, but increased by a factor of 2-3 from the surface to the oxygen minimum zone (OMZ), suggesting that Fe-binding ligands may be produced during organic matter degradation. Ligand concentrations were consistently higher than total iron concentrations at every site measured, with an average "excess" ligand concentration of 2.15 ñ 1.50 (n = 10). "Excess" ligand concentrations in the OMZ were 2 to 20 times higher than surface waters (upper 100 m). Formation-rate constants (kf ) and dissociation-rate constants (kd) between added Fe3+ and seawater ligands were measured using a kinetic approach at ambient seawater pH, allowing independent calculation of the conditional stability constant, since K = kf/kd. Using the kinetic approach, conditional stability constants ranged from log KFeL = 20.5 ñ 0.1 to 22.9 ñ 0.1. Although log K values are comparable in magnitude to those reported in the Pacific and Northwestern Atlantic Oceans, measured total ligand concentrations in the Arabian Sea are higher. This suggests that in areas that receive high Fe inputs through upwelling and/or atmospheric deposition, marine organisms may produce 'excess' ligands to keep Fe soluble in seawater for extended intervals. },
keywords = {Arabian Sea, Atlantic, Atlantic Ocean, depth, marine, oxygen minimum, Upwelling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Fe(III) speciation was measured in seawater collected as part of the United States Joint Global Ocean Flux (US JGOFS) Arabian Sea Process Study, Cruise TN045, March 14-April 10, 1995. The Fe-binding capacity of organic seawater ligands was measured in filtered seawater (<0.4 æm) collected from surface depths and throughout the oxygen minimum zone (OMZ). Seawaters from three stations on the southern line (S2, S9, and S11) were examined. Total Fe concentrations measured at the three sites ranged from: 1.25 ñ 0.21 nM to 1.30 ñ 0.01 nM (S2); 1.67 ñ 0.50 nM to 2.63 ñ 0.54 nM (S9); and 1.40 ñ 0.11 nM to 1.70 ñ 0.29 nM (S11). Cathodic stripping voltammetry (CSV) with 1-nitroso-2-napthol (1N2N) as the competitive ligand (pH 6.9) was used to determine conditional stability constants and Fe-binding ligand concentrations in seawater. Conditional stability constants for FeL complexes ranged from log KFeL = 21.6 ñ 0.1 to 22.5 ñ 0.9 at the three sites. Total ligand concentrations ranged from 1.47 ñ 0.06 nM to 6.33 ñ 1.16 nM over all sites, but increased by a factor of 2-3 from the surface to the oxygen minimum zone (OMZ), suggesting that Fe-binding ligands may be produced during organic matter degradation. Ligand concentrations were consistently higher than total iron concentrations at every site measured, with an average "excess" ligand concentration of 2.15 ñ 1.50 (n = 10). "Excess" ligand concentrations in the OMZ were 2 to 20 times higher than surface waters (upper 100 m). Formation-rate constants (kf ) and dissociation-rate constants (kd) between added Fe3+ and seawater ligands were measured using a kinetic approach at ambient seawater pH, allowing independent calculation of the conditional stability constant, since K = kf/kd. Using the kinetic approach, conditional stability constants ranged from log KFeL = 20.5 ñ 0.1 to 22.9 ñ 0.1. Although log K values are comparable in magnitude to those reported in the Pacific and Northwestern Atlantic Oceans, measured total ligand concentrations in the Arabian Sea are higher. This suggests that in areas that receive high Fe inputs through upwelling and/or atmospheric deposition, marine organisms may produce 'excess' ligands to keep Fe soluble in seawater for extended intervals.
Johnson,Z.,Landry,M.L.,Bidigare,R.R.,Brown,S.L.,Campbell,L.,Gunderson,J.,Marra,J.,Trees,C.
Energetics and growth kinetics of a deep Prochlorococcus spp. population in the Arabian Sea Journal Article
In: Deep-Sea Research Part II, vol. 46, no. 129, pp. 1719-1743, 1999.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Sea, chlorophyll, growth, marine, performance, population, populations
@article{,
title = {Energetics and growth kinetics of a deep Prochlorococcus spp. population in the Arabian Sea},
author = {Johnson,Z.,Landry,M.L.,Bidigare,R.R.,Brown,S.L.,Campbell,L.,Gunderson,J.,Marra,J.,Trees,C.},
year = {1999},
date = {1999-01-01},
journal = {Deep-Sea Research Part II},
volume = {46},
number = {129},
pages = {1719-1743},
abstract = {During the US JGOFS process studies in the Arabian Sea (1995), secondary fluorescence maxima (SFM) were observed frequently at the oxic-anoxic interface at the extreme base of the euphotic zone. These secondary peaks were most prominent during the early NE monsoon in the central oligotrophic portion of the Arabian Sea, although they were spatially and temporally variable. Based on high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and flow cytometry analyses, SFM were determined to be populated almost exclusively by the marine cyanobacterium Prochlorococcus spp. While SFM were about half the magnitude of primary fluorescence peaks, chlorophyll a biomass was typically an order of magnitude less than at the primary maxima (although total chlorophyll (a + b) differed only by a factor of two). Photosynthesis versus irradiance response curves revealed an efficient population adapted to extremely low light (~0.02-0.05% surface irradiance) largely through increased light absorption capabilities. A theoretical spectral irradiance absorption effciency model based on available spectral irradiance, individual cell properties, and bulk particulate spectral absorption also supports a well-adapted low-light population. Deck-incubated C-14 uptake as well as dilution growth experiments revealed instantaneous growth rates on the order of æ = 0.01 d-1. However, additional in situ observations suggest SFM populations may be more dynamic than the growth rates estimates from shipboard bottle incubations predict. We advance four hypotheses for the regulation of SFM populations including: (1) reduced loss rates, (2) discontinuous environmental conditions, (3) enhanced sub-oxic growth, and (4) physical mechanisms.},
keywords = {Arabian Sea, chlorophyll, growth, marine, performance, population, populations},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
During the US JGOFS process studies in the Arabian Sea (1995), secondary fluorescence maxima (SFM) were observed frequently at the oxic-anoxic interface at the extreme base of the euphotic zone. These secondary peaks were most prominent during the early NE monsoon in the central oligotrophic portion of the Arabian Sea, although they were spatially and temporally variable. Based on high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and flow cytometry analyses, SFM were determined to be populated almost exclusively by the marine cyanobacterium Prochlorococcus spp. While SFM were about half the magnitude of primary fluorescence peaks, chlorophyll a biomass was typically an order of magnitude less than at the primary maxima (although total chlorophyll (a + b) differed only by a factor of two). Photosynthesis versus irradiance response curves revealed an efficient population adapted to extremely low light (~0.02-0.05% surface irradiance) largely through increased light absorption capabilities. A theoretical spectral irradiance absorption effciency model based on available spectral irradiance, individual cell properties, and bulk particulate spectral absorption also supports a well-adapted low-light population. Deck-incubated C-14 uptake as well as dilution growth experiments revealed instantaneous growth rates on the order of æ = 0.01 d-1. However, additional in situ observations suggest SFM populations may be more dynamic than the growth rates estimates from shipboard bottle incubations predict. We advance four hypotheses for the regulation of SFM populations including: (1) reduced loss rates, (2) discontinuous environmental conditions, (3) enhanced sub-oxic growth, and (4) physical mechanisms.
Mosseri-Marlio,C.E.
The Fat of the Land? Aspects of sea turtle and dolphin exploitation in Bronze Age Oman PhD Thesis
1999.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: dolphin, dolphins, marine, Oman, turtles
@phdthesis{,
title = {The Fat of the Land? Aspects of sea turtle and dolphin exploitation in Bronze Age Oman},
author = {Mosseri-Marlio,C.E.},
year = {1999},
date = {1999-01-01},
number = {420},
pages = {1-67},
publisher = {University of London},
abstract = {The discovery of large quantities of dolphins and sea turtle remains from the Bronze Age levels of Ras al Hadd in eastern Oman has prompted a full investigation into the exploitation of these two animals in the past. Using a standard zooarchaeological approach that has been developed for the examination of terrestrial animals, this study considers not only the use of these marine taxa as food but also the exploitation of their other body parts such as hide, shell and fat for other purposes. Paramount to this discussion is the large quantity of fat. This dissertation represents a different approach to marine resources, since traditionally these have been considered important primarily as food. The ethology of sea turtles and dolphins will also be used to discuss the ways in which these animals were exploited. A comparison with other sites in Arabia and review of early ethnographic accounts of sea turtle and dolphin use completes this study.},
keywords = {dolphin, dolphins, marine, Oman, turtles},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {phdthesis}
}
The discovery of large quantities of dolphins and sea turtle remains from the Bronze Age levels of Ras al Hadd in eastern Oman has prompted a full investigation into the exploitation of these two animals in the past. Using a standard zooarchaeological approach that has been developed for the examination of terrestrial animals, this study considers not only the use of these marine taxa as food but also the exploitation of their other body parts such as hide, shell and fat for other purposes. Paramount to this discussion is the large quantity of fat. This dissertation represents a different approach to marine resources, since traditionally these have been considered important primarily as food. The ethology of sea turtles and dolphins will also be used to discuss the ways in which these animals were exploited. A comparison with other sites in Arabia and review of early ethnographic accounts of sea turtle and dolphin use completes this study.
Siddeek,M.S.M.
Marine fisheries resources, fisheries and marine environmental management, coral reefs and marine parks in the Northwest Indian Ocean Technical Report
no. 473, 1999.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: coral, Fisheries, Indian Ocean, management, marine, Oman
@techreport{,
title = {Marine fisheries resources, fisheries and marine environmental management, coral reefs and marine parks in the Northwest Indian Ocean},
author = {Siddeek,M.S.M.},
year = {1999},
date = {1999-01-01},
journal = {Presented at the Regional Workshop on Fisheries Monitoring, Control and Surveillance, 24-28 Oct. Muscat, Oman},
number = {473},
abstract = {This report contains much of the same information (and wording!) as reference 471, with some additional information on pelagic fisheries, coral reefs and marine protected areas. Information is only broad and general.},
keywords = {coral, Fisheries, Indian Ocean, management, marine, Oman},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
This report contains much of the same information (and wording!) as reference 471, with some additional information on pelagic fisheries, coral reefs and marine protected areas. Information is only broad and general.
Siddeek,M.S.M.,Fouda,M.M.,Hermosa,G.V.Jr.
Demersal fisheries of the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Gulf Journal Article
In: Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, vol. 49, no. 474, pp. 87-97, 1999.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, enforcement, Fisheries, fishing gear, Gulf of Oman, management, marine, nets, Oman, pollution, productivity, regulations, trap, trawlers
@article{,
title = {Demersal fisheries of the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Gulf},
author = {Siddeek,M.S.M.,Fouda,M.M.,Hermosa,G.V.Jr.},
year = {1999},
date = {1999-01-01},
journal = {Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science},
volume = {49},
number = {474},
pages = {87-97},
abstract = {The demersal fisheries of the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Gulf are reviewed. The region comprises eight countries: Oman, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq and Iran. Over 350 commercial fish species, eight shrimp species, two spiny lobster species, one shovel nose lobster species, one cuttlefish species, one crab species, and one abalone species support the demersal fisheries in the continental shelves of the three regions. Artisanal and industrial vessels with over 120 000 fishermen were involved in demersal fisheries. Fishing boats include fish and shrimp trawlers (wooden and steel hulled), large wooden boats (dhow) with inboard engines, small dhows with outboard engines, and fiberglass boats. Fishing gear consists of trawls, bottom gill nets, traps (wire mesh and plastic types), barrier traps, hand lines, and bare hands and knives (to dislodge abalone). Demersal fish (primarily Lethrinidae, Sparidae, Serranidae, Siganidae, Sciaenidae, Stromateidae, Lutjanidae, Trichiuridae, and Nemipteridae) and shrimp (primarily Penaeus semisulcatus, Metapenaeus affinis, Parapenaeopsis stylifera, and Penaeus merguiensis) were the two commercial demersal resources. Approximately 198 000-214 000 tonnes (t) of demersals were landed annually during 1988-1993, accounting for nearly 40% of the total marine landings (475000-552000 t). This percentage, however varied among countries: 25% in Oman, 32% in U.A.E., 71% in Qatar, 52% in Saudi Arabia, 56% in Bahrain, 55% in Kuwait, close to 100% in Iraq, and 41% in Iran. Fishing effort on certain stocks may have been below the optimum level (e.g. certain Omani demersal fish), near the optimum level (e.g. Omani shrimp), or above the optimum level ( e.g. Arabian Gulf shrimp and demersal fish). Overexploitation led to restriction of fishing effort by limiting fishing licenses, regulating fishing gear (mesh size) and capture size, closing fishing areas, restricting fishing season, and banning certain fisheries. However, fisheries management was hampered by lack of appropriate management regulations, enforcement and data on most stocks. Pollution and degradation of nursery areas were also affecting the productivity of fisheries resources. To achieve sustainable demersal fisheries, maintaining a healthy marine environment, reducing fishing effort, and strictly enforcing closed seasons and closed areas are needed. These measures are being implemented with varying degrees of success by all the countries.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, enforcement, Fisheries, fishing gear, Gulf of Oman, management, marine, nets, Oman, pollution, productivity, regulations, trap, trawlers},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The demersal fisheries of the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Gulf are reviewed. The region comprises eight countries: Oman, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq and Iran. Over 350 commercial fish species, eight shrimp species, two spiny lobster species, one shovel nose lobster species, one cuttlefish species, one crab species, and one abalone species support the demersal fisheries in the continental shelves of the three regions. Artisanal and industrial vessels with over 120 000 fishermen were involved in demersal fisheries. Fishing boats include fish and shrimp trawlers (wooden and steel hulled), large wooden boats (dhow) with inboard engines, small dhows with outboard engines, and fiberglass boats. Fishing gear consists of trawls, bottom gill nets, traps (wire mesh and plastic types), barrier traps, hand lines, and bare hands and knives (to dislodge abalone). Demersal fish (primarily Lethrinidae, Sparidae, Serranidae, Siganidae, Sciaenidae, Stromateidae, Lutjanidae, Trichiuridae, and Nemipteridae) and shrimp (primarily Penaeus semisulcatus, Metapenaeus affinis, Parapenaeopsis stylifera, and Penaeus merguiensis) were the two commercial demersal resources. Approximately 198 000-214 000 tonnes (t) of demersals were landed annually during 1988-1993, accounting for nearly 40% of the total marine landings (475000-552000 t). This percentage, however varied among countries: 25% in Oman, 32% in U.A.E., 71% in Qatar, 52% in Saudi Arabia, 56% in Bahrain, 55% in Kuwait, close to 100% in Iraq, and 41% in Iran. Fishing effort on certain stocks may have been below the optimum level (e.g. certain Omani demersal fish), near the optimum level (e.g. Omani shrimp), or above the optimum level ( e.g. Arabian Gulf shrimp and demersal fish). Overexploitation led to restriction of fishing effort by limiting fishing licenses, regulating fishing gear (mesh size) and capture size, closing fishing areas, restricting fishing season, and banning certain fisheries. However, fisheries management was hampered by lack of appropriate management regulations, enforcement and data on most stocks. Pollution and degradation of nursery areas were also affecting the productivity of fisheries resources. To achieve sustainable demersal fisheries, maintaining a healthy marine environment, reducing fishing effort, and strictly enforcing closed seasons and closed areas are needed. These measures are being implemented with varying degrees of success by all the countries.
By Ministry of Regional Municipalities; Environment/Petroleum Development Oman LTD in association with Fisheries Extension & Technical Services,marine Science; Fisheries Centre; Sultan Qaboos University
Artificial reefs - Investigation of colonisation of tyre and concrete reefs in Omani coastal waters with particular regard to possible toxicity expression by tyres Technical Report
no. 341, 1997.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: artificial reefs, assessment, cadmium, development, Fisheries, marine, Oman, zinc
@techreport{,
title = {Artificial reefs - Investigation of colonisation of tyre and concrete reefs in Omani coastal waters with particular regard to possible toxicity expression by tyres },
author = {By Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Environment/Petroleum Development Oman LTD in association with Fisheries Extension & Technical Services,marine Science and Fisheries Centre and Sultan Qaboos University},
year = {1997},
date = {1997-01-01},
number = {341},
pages = {1-31},
abstract = {From Muscat to the Musandam in Oman , a distance of 200kms , the continental shelf is narrow , sandy and few hard features exist. This has resulted in the artisanal fishery being almost solely dependant on pelagic fish species for its catch (tuna, sardines and kingfish). On a number of occasions Batinah Coast fishery groups have requested that artificial reefs be installed with the intention of promoting pelagic fish aggregation and establishing a demersal fishery. Inshore currents along the Batinah coast run northwards from the substantial Muscat reef area and it is possible therefore that colonisation of any artificial reefs on the Batinah coast by reef organisms could be rapid To date permission for artificial reel' deployment has not been granted by the Ministry of Regional Municipality and Environment since waste materials only were to be used and in particular redundant tyres. Concern has been expressed that tyres could leach cadmium, zinc and Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons and affect the local marine environment. It has been established , however , that fishery groups on the Batinah Coast are already deploying tyres as artificial reefs. It is essential therefore that experimental assessment oh the effects of such deployments in Omani waters and the benefits or otherwise arc quickly established. Petroleum Development Oman over a number of years have built up a stockpile of some 20,000 old tyres which is growing at the rate of 2000 a year and suggested that rather than dump all the tyres they could be used for artificial reef building. They expressed a willingness to help in any pre-deployment research considered necessary to enable such a use for the tyres to be decided. IT IS TO BL EMPHASISED THAT THE MINISTRY OF REGIONAL MUNICIPALITIES AND ENVIRONMENT IS NOT ADVOCATING OR SUPPORTING THE DEPLOYMENT OF TYRE ARTIFICIAL REEFS ;THE MINISTRY ONLY WISHES TO ESTABLISH IF SUCH DEPLOYMENTS ARE ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE OR NOT, AS THE CASE MAY BE.},
keywords = {artificial reefs, assessment, cadmium, development, Fisheries, marine, Oman, zinc},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
From Muscat to the Musandam in Oman , a distance of 200kms , the continental shelf is narrow , sandy and few hard features exist. This has resulted in the artisanal fishery being almost solely dependant on pelagic fish species for its catch (tuna, sardines and kingfish). On a number of occasions Batinah Coast fishery groups have requested that artificial reefs be installed with the intention of promoting pelagic fish aggregation and establishing a demersal fishery. Inshore currents along the Batinah coast run northwards from the substantial Muscat reef area and it is possible therefore that colonisation of any artificial reefs on the Batinah coast by reef organisms could be rapid To date permission for artificial reel' deployment has not been granted by the Ministry of Regional Municipality and Environment since waste materials only were to be used and in particular redundant tyres. Concern has been expressed that tyres could leach cadmium, zinc and Polyaromatic Hydrocarbons and affect the local marine environment. It has been established , however , that fishery groups on the Batinah Coast are already deploying tyres as artificial reefs. It is essential therefore that experimental assessment oh the effects of such deployments in Omani waters and the benefits or otherwise arc quickly established. Petroleum Development Oman over a number of years have built up a stockpile of some 20,000 old tyres which is growing at the rate of 2000 a year and suggested that rather than dump all the tyres they could be used for artificial reef building. They expressed a willingness to help in any pre-deployment research considered necessary to enable such a use for the tyres to be decided. IT IS TO BL EMPHASISED THAT THE MINISTRY OF REGIONAL MUNICIPALITIES AND ENVIRONMENT IS NOT ADVOCATING OR SUPPORTING THE DEPLOYMENT OF TYRE ARTIFICIAL REEFS ;THE MINISTRY ONLY WISHES TO ESTABLISH IF SUCH DEPLOYMENTS ARE ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE OR NOT, AS THE CASE MAY BE.
Al-Jabri,M.
Marine epilithic algal communities on artificial and natural substrates Technical Report
no. 5, 1996.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, coral, developing, Green turtles, growth, Gulf of Oman, habitat, marine, monitoring, Oman, pollution, productivity, salinity, temperature, turtles
@techreport{,
title = {Marine epilithic algal communities on artificial and natural substrates },
author = {Al-Jabri,M.},
year = {1996},
date = {1996-01-01},
volume = {FSC 1580-91 },
number = {5},
pages = {1-15},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION The Epilithic Algal Community (EAC) of coral reefs are diverse assemblages of small filamentous green, red, blue-green algae ('turf species') and crustose coralline red algal. These have low biomass but show rapid growth rate (Klumpp and Mckinnon, 1989) and this algal community colonizes the reefs and serves as the primary food source for herbivores. The diversity and richness of reef fauna can also be attributed largely to the high productivity of EAC (Klumpp and Mckinnon, 1989); thus the EAC is the major source of food for herbivores such as damselfish, echinoids, surgeonfish (sohal and yellow tail), parrotfish and green turtles. The main algal functional form group (Littler et a¡.,1983) is the filamentous group. In the Arabian Sea, however, there is a diverse algal community of filamentous, sheet-group, coarsely branched group and thick leathery group due to upwelling, (Mardela, 1975, Jupp et al, 1996). The Gulf of Oman does not experience upwelling due to the summer S.W. monsoon, so in this part of Oman, because of the physical conditions prevailing, there are high salinities and temperatures in summer as well as wide temperature variation and, combined with largely sand substrates here, coral reefs are not as widely distributed as in many tropical seas and their growth and diversity is not as great. In spite of this, they still contribute a highly complex community (Sheppard and Salm, 1988). During the past three decades, many of the natural marine habitats in the world and Arabian Gulf in particular are being destroyed, degraded or are actually disappearing as a result of oil pollution, coastal infilling and other activities associated with industrial development. Because the EAC is very important for grazers, many studies on natural reefs and artificial reefs structures including oil platforms, piers, jetties and other coastal installations have been carried out (Seaman and Sprague, 1991). Artificial habitat enhancement has been practiced primarily to attract fishes in various parts of the world, however in Oman there are no studies yet that have been made to understand the mechanisms of attractive effect of artificial structures. In addition, few studies on reef coral community and no detailed study of EAC have been carried out in Oman with studies along the Gulf of Oman just mentioning few macroalgae and green filamentous algae, e.g. Entromorpha (Sheppard and Salm, 1988). On the Gulf of Oman coasts, only sparse clumps of larger macroalgae (>10cm) of sheet-group, coarsely branched and thick leathery groups are found (Mardela, 1975) with, for example, only scattered plants such as Padina and Halymenia (Cordero, 1992). In view of the importance of EAC on natural and artificial reefs this preliminary study will provide valuable baseline biological data about the growth of algae as well as the faunal assemblages that accumulate around artificial substrates. Data from this study would be useful to assist researchers in the future in monitoring herbivorous fish resources as well as the succession of communities developing on artificial reefs.},
keywords = {Arabian Gulf, Arabian Sea, coral, developing, Green turtles, growth, Gulf of Oman, habitat, marine, monitoring, Oman, pollution, productivity, salinity, temperature, turtles},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
INTRODUCTION The Epilithic Algal Community (EAC) of coral reefs are diverse assemblages of small filamentous green, red, blue-green algae ('turf species') and crustose coralline red algal. These have low biomass but show rapid growth rate (Klumpp and Mckinnon, 1989) and this algal community colonizes the reefs and serves as the primary food source for herbivores. The diversity and richness of reef fauna can also be attributed largely to the high productivity of EAC (Klumpp and Mckinnon, 1989); thus the EAC is the major source of food for herbivores such as damselfish, echinoids, surgeonfish (sohal and yellow tail), parrotfish and green turtles. The main algal functional form group (Littler et a¡.,1983) is the filamentous group. In the Arabian Sea, however, there is a diverse algal community of filamentous, sheet-group, coarsely branched group and thick leathery group due to upwelling, (Mardela, 1975, Jupp et al, 1996). The Gulf of Oman does not experience upwelling due to the summer S.W. monsoon, so in this part of Oman, because of the physical conditions prevailing, there are high salinities and temperatures in summer as well as wide temperature variation and, combined with largely sand substrates here, coral reefs are not as widely distributed as in many tropical seas and their growth and diversity is not as great. In spite of this, they still contribute a highly complex community (Sheppard and Salm, 1988). During the past three decades, many of the natural marine habitats in the world and Arabian Gulf in particular are being destroyed, degraded or are actually disappearing as a result of oil pollution, coastal infilling and other activities associated with industrial development. Because the EAC is very important for grazers, many studies on natural reefs and artificial reefs structures including oil platforms, piers, jetties and other coastal installations have been carried out (Seaman and Sprague, 1991). Artificial habitat enhancement has been practiced primarily to attract fishes in various parts of the world, however in Oman there are no studies yet that have been made to understand the mechanisms of attractive effect of artificial structures. In addition, few studies on reef coral community and no detailed study of EAC have been carried out in Oman with studies along the Gulf of Oman just mentioning few macroalgae and green filamentous algae, e.g. Entromorpha (Sheppard and Salm, 1988). On the Gulf of Oman coasts, only sparse clumps of larger macroalgae (>10cm) of sheet-group, coarsely branched and thick leathery groups are found (Mardela, 1975) with, for example, only scattered plants such as Padina and Halymenia (Cordero, 1992). In view of the importance of EAC on natural and artificial reefs this preliminary study will provide valuable baseline biological data about the growth of algae as well as the faunal assemblages that accumulate around artificial substrates. Data from this study would be useful to assist researchers in the future in monitoring herbivorous fish resources as well as the succession of communities developing on artificial reefs.
Al-Shihi,R.M.
Future of traditional fishing Book
Sultan Qaboos University, 1996.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Fisheries, fishing gear, marine, Oman
@book{,
title = {Future of traditional fishing},
author = {Al-Shihi,R.M.},
year = {1996},
date = {1996-01-01},
journal = {Traditional Agriculture and Fishing in the Sultanate of Oman},
number = {287},
pages = {58-60},
publisher = {Sultan Qaboos University},
abstract = {This chapter outlines the steps that the government has taken to assist the fishing industry in Oman: in 1972 the Fisheries Department was formed, this became a Directorate General under the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in 1974. In 1980 the Oman National Fisheries Company was formed with gov't assistance to purchase, distribute and export the catches of local fishermen. In 1978, the Fishermen Encouragement Fund was set up, and as of 1995, over 16,000 fishermen had been assisted by the FEF in buying outboard engines and fiberglass boats. Vessels, engines and fishing equipment are distributed to fishermen along the coastline under the conditions that they make a substantial financial contribution and that they hold a valid fishing permit. Finally, in 1986, the gov't set up the Marine Science and Fisheries Center with support from UNESCO and the FAO in order to evaluate fish stocks, set limits on fishing quotas, provide biological data on certain species of fish and train omanis in the fishing industry.},
keywords = {Fisheries, fishing gear, marine, Oman},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
This chapter outlines the steps that the government has taken to assist the fishing industry in Oman: in 1972 the Fisheries Department was formed, this became a Directorate General under the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in 1974. In 1980 the Oman National Fisheries Company was formed with gov't assistance to purchase, distribute and export the catches of local fishermen. In 1978, the Fishermen Encouragement Fund was set up, and as of 1995, over 16,000 fishermen had been assisted by the FEF in buying outboard engines and fiberglass boats. Vessels, engines and fishing equipment are distributed to fishermen along the coastline under the conditions that they make a substantial financial contribution and that they hold a valid fishing permit. Finally, in 1986, the gov't set up the Marine Science and Fisheries Center with support from UNESCO and the FAO in order to evaluate fish stocks, set limits on fishing quotas, provide biological data on certain species of fish and train omanis in the fishing industry.
Robineau,D.,Fiquet,P.
The Cetacea of the Jubail Marine Wildlife Sanctuary, Saudi Arabia Book
NCWCD, 1996.
BibTeX | Tags: Arabia, Arabian Gulf, cetacea, conservation, marine, oil, sanctuaries
@book{,
title = {The Cetacea of the Jubail Marine Wildlife Sanctuary, Saudi Arabia},
author = {Robineau,D.,Fiquet,P.},
year = {1996},
date = {1996-01-01},
journal = {A Marine Wildlife Sanctuary for the Arabian Gulf Environmental Research and Conservation Following the 1991 Gulf War Oil Spill.},
number = {208},
pages = {438-457},
publisher = {NCWCD},
keywords = {Arabia, Arabian Gulf, cetacea, conservation, marine, oil, sanctuaries},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
Ministry of Agriculture; Fisheries
Ministerial Decree 4/94: Marine Fishing and Living-Aquatic-Resources Protection law
1994.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: fishing gear, mammals, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, regulations, turtles
@{,
title = {Ministerial Decree 4/94: Marine Fishing and Living-Aquatic-Resources Protection law},
author = {Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries},
year = {1994},
date = {1994-01-01},
volume = {4/94},
number = {371},
abstract = {Ministerial Decision 4/94, issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, updates Royal Decree No. 53/81, the Marine Fishing and Living Aquatic Resources Protection Law. In addition to prohibiting the hunting of marine mammals (see above) this legislation contains articles pertaining to the licensing of fishermen, fishing vessels, restrictions on certain types of fishing gear and seasonal closures for certain species of fish. A few pertinent articles include:ù A prohibition on capturing any marine resources during their reproductive season (resulting in seasonal closers for lobster and abalone fisheries, and a justification for other seasonal closures on pelagic or demersal species pending research results);ù A prohibition on the use of string nets, monofilament gill nets or the setting of nets at high tide on beaches or lagoons to trap fish on outgoing tides;ù A prohibition on foreign fishing vessels in Omani waters operating without official permit from the MAF;ù A prohibition on the use of foreign/expatriate workers on fishing vessels licensed to conduct artisanal/traditional fishing;ù A prohibition for fishermen to 1) sail into areas allocated to other fishermen with the intent to fish; or 2) to place fishing gear in areas not specifically allocated to them by licence;ù The right of the MAF to require fishermen and dealers to collect and provide any data requested or required by the MAF;ù The right of the MAF to prohibit fishing of certain species, or fishing in certain regions or seasons.},
keywords = {fishing gear, mammals, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, regulations, turtles},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {}
}
Ministerial Decision 4/94, issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, updates Royal Decree No. 53/81, the Marine Fishing and Living Aquatic Resources Protection Law. In addition to prohibiting the hunting of marine mammals (see above) this legislation contains articles pertaining to the licensing of fishermen, fishing vessels, restrictions on certain types of fishing gear and seasonal closures for certain species of fish. A few pertinent articles include:ù A prohibition on capturing any marine resources during their reproductive season (resulting in seasonal closers for lobster and abalone fisheries, and a justification for other seasonal closures on pelagic or demersal species pending research results);ù A prohibition on the use of string nets, monofilament gill nets or the setting of nets at high tide on beaches or lagoons to trap fish on outgoing tides;ù A prohibition on foreign fishing vessels in Omani waters operating without official permit from the MAF;ù A prohibition on the use of foreign/expatriate workers on fishing vessels licensed to conduct artisanal/traditional fishing;ù A prohibition for fishermen to 1) sail into areas allocated to other fishermen with the intent to fish; or 2) to place fishing gear in areas not specifically allocated to them by licence;ù The right of the MAF to require fishermen and dealers to collect and provide any data requested or required by the MAF;ù The right of the MAF to prohibit fishing of certain species, or fishing in certain regions or seasons.
Salm,R.V.,Jensen,R.A.C.,Papastavrou,V.
Marine fauna of Oman: Cetaceans, turtles, seabirds and shallow water corals Technical Report
no. 469, 1993.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: cetacean, cetaceans, coastal zone management, coral, dolphin, dolphins, management, marine, minke whale, minke whales, Oman, seabirds, Strandings, survey, turtles, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Marine fauna of Oman: Cetaceans, turtles, seabirds and shallow water corals},
author = {Salm,R.V.,Jensen,R.A.C.,Papastavrou,V.},
year = {1993},
date = {1993-01-01},
number = {469},
pages = {1-66},
publisher = {IUCN},
abstract = {This is the final compilation report that summarises all the data in the sub-reports on cetaceans and turtles etc. Cetacean stranding an sighting info from the surveys conducted between 1984 and 1992. 210 sightings of live cetaceans were made from the shore, boats and helicopters. Most sightings were of animals within four km of shore. The sightings, which were incidental to other coastal zone management studies do not include any related observer effort. The majority of boat-based searching occurred in the capital area, with remaining boat distributed equally between Musandam and Dhofar. There was less observation from boats along the stretch of central coast, but more time spent driving on beaches.There are also 173 records of beached cetacean material. these include the remains of 25 dolphins butchered by fishermen. The sightings and strandings are summarised in a table including 16 species (including both sei and minke whales). 90% of all beached cetacean remains were found south of Ras al Hadd along the central coast, and was most abundant between 20 and 21 N.},
keywords = {cetacean, cetaceans, coastal zone management, coral, dolphin, dolphins, management, marine, minke whale, minke whales, Oman, seabirds, Strandings, survey, turtles, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
This is the final compilation report that summarises all the data in the sub-reports on cetaceans and turtles etc. Cetacean stranding an sighting info from the surveys conducted between 1984 and 1992. 210 sightings of live cetaceans were made from the shore, boats and helicopters. Most sightings were of animals within four km of shore. The sightings, which were incidental to other coastal zone management studies do not include any related observer effort. The majority of boat-based searching occurred in the capital area, with remaining boat distributed equally between Musandam and Dhofar. There was less observation from boats along the stretch of central coast, but more time spent driving on beaches.There are also 173 records of beached cetacean material. these include the remains of 25 dolphins butchered by fishermen. The sightings and strandings are summarised in a table including 16 species (including both sei and minke whales). 90% of all beached cetacean remains were found south of Ras al Hadd along the central coast, and was most abundant between 20 and 21 N.
Alling,A.
A preliminary report of marine mammal fisheries in Djibouti, Oman and Sri Lanka Technical Report
no. 280, 1992.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Arctic, cetacean, cetaceans, dolphin, dolphins, Fisheries, habitat, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, North Pacific, Oman, Porpoise, sanctuaries, skull, skulls, Sri Lanka, status, stomach contents, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {A preliminary report of marine mammal fisheries in Djibouti, Oman and Sri Lanka },
author = {Alling,A.},
year = {1992},
date = {1992-01-01},
volume = {694 },
number = {280},
pages = {1-10},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION During the 1982 and 1983 field seasons on Tulip, an effort was made to assess the status of small whale fisheries in Djibouti, Oman and Sri Lanka. In lieu of the fact that the World Wildlife Funds Indian Ocean Whale study still has one more year of field work, this preliminary report will only summarise our findings as of April, 1983. Officials and fisherman were contacted during port calls in 1982 to obtain information about local hunting and entrapment of cetaceans and members of the Tulip crew travelled to 9 harbours in Sri Lanka to interview fishermen. Dolphins seen in fish markets were measured, identified, stomach contents taken, and skulls collected for positive identification. In 1982 one fisherman on the west coast of Sri Lanka was asked to keep a daily log of all cetaceans entrapped or harpooned for a duration of one year. In 1983 we increased the number of harbours Monitored and four additional fishermen, three on the east coast and one on the west coast, were asked to keep these journals. A constant watch was kept at sea for all cetacean sightings. Species seen were identified using three identification guides: Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises of the Eastern North Pacific and Adjacent Arctic Waters (Leatherwood et al., 1982), Sea Guide to, Whales of the World (Watson, 1982), and A Field Guide to Whales and Dolphins (Captain Morzer Bruyns, 1971). When the identification was questionable, animals were photographed for confirmation of identity at a later date. },
keywords = {Arctic, cetacean, cetaceans, dolphin, dolphins, Fisheries, habitat, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, North Pacific, Oman, Porpoise, sanctuaries, skull, skulls, Sri Lanka, status, stomach contents, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
INTRODUCTION During the 1982 and 1983 field seasons on Tulip, an effort was made to assess the status of small whale fisheries in Djibouti, Oman and Sri Lanka. In lieu of the fact that the World Wildlife Funds Indian Ocean Whale study still has one more year of field work, this preliminary report will only summarise our findings as of April, 1983. Officials and fisherman were contacted during port calls in 1982 to obtain information about local hunting and entrapment of cetaceans and members of the Tulip crew travelled to 9 harbours in Sri Lanka to interview fishermen. Dolphins seen in fish markets were measured, identified, stomach contents taken, and skulls collected for positive identification. In 1982 one fisherman on the west coast of Sri Lanka was asked to keep a daily log of all cetaceans entrapped or harpooned for a duration of one year. In 1983 we increased the number of harbours Monitored and four additional fishermen, three on the east coast and one on the west coast, were asked to keep these journals. A constant watch was kept at sea for all cetacean sightings. Species seen were identified using three identification guides: Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises of the Eastern North Pacific and Adjacent Arctic Waters (Leatherwood et al., 1982), Sea Guide to, Whales of the World (Watson, 1982), and A Field Guide to Whales and Dolphins (Captain Morzer Bruyns, 1971). When the identification was questionable, animals were photographed for confirmation of identity at a later date.
Gallagher,M.D.
Collection of skulls of cetacea: Odondoceti from Bahrain, United Arab Emirates and Oman, 1969 - 1990 Book
UNEP, 1991.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: bottlenose dolphin, cetacea, cetacean, cetaceans, Common dolphin, Cuvier's beaked whale, dwarf sperm whale, false killer whale, fishing gear, hump-backed dolphin, incidental capture, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, mass mortality, morphology/anatomy, mortality, Oman, Risso's dolphin, sanctuaries, skull, skulls, sperm whale, Spinner dolphin, spotted dolphin, Strandings, Striped dolphin, tropical dolphin, United Arab Emirates
@book{,
title = {Collection of skulls of cetacea: Odondoceti from Bahrain, United Arab Emirates and Oman, 1969 - 1990},
author = {Gallagher,M.D.},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {Cetaceans and Cetacean Research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary: Marine Mammal Technical Report Number 3},
number = {375},
pages = {89-97},
publisher = {UNEP},
abstract = {This paper details the collections of odontocete cetacean skulls from Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Oman, 1969-90. Causes of death of specimens are unknown but the likelihood of natural strandings, incidental capture in fishing gear and mass mortality are discussed.},
keywords = {bottlenose dolphin, cetacea, cetacean, cetaceans, Common dolphin, Cuvier's beaked whale, dwarf sperm whale, false killer whale, fishing gear, hump-backed dolphin, incidental capture, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, mass mortality, morphology/anatomy, mortality, Oman, Risso's dolphin, sanctuaries, skull, skulls, sperm whale, Spinner dolphin, spotted dolphin, Strandings, Striped dolphin, tropical dolphin, United Arab Emirates},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
This paper details the collections of odontocete cetacean skulls from Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Oman, 1969-90. Causes of death of specimens are unknown but the likelihood of natural strandings, incidental capture in fishing gear and mass mortality are discussed.
IUCN
Cetaceans and cetacean research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary Book Chapter
In: no. 391, pp. 1-287, UNEP, 1991.
BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling
@inbook{,
title = {Cetaceans and cetacean research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary},
author = {IUCN},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {UNEP marine Mammal Technical Report number 3},
number = {391},
pages = {1-287},
publisher = {UNEP},
keywords = {Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inbook}
}
Leatherwood, S.,Donovan, G.P.
Cetaceans and cetacean research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary Book Chapter
In: no. 397, pp. 1-287, UNEP, 1991.
BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling
@inbook{,
title = {Cetaceans and cetacean research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary},
author = {Leatherwood, S.,Donovan, G.P.},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {UNEP marine Mammal Technical Report number 3},
number = {397},
pages = {1-287},
publisher = {UNEP},
keywords = {Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {inbook}
}
Papastavrou,V.,Salm,R.V.
A note on recent sightings and strandings of cetaceans in Oman: Ra's Sawadi to Rakhyut Book
United Nations Environment Programme, 1991.
BibTeX | Tags: cetacean, cetaceans, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, Oman, sanctuaries, Strandings, whale, whales
@book{,
title = {A note on recent sightings and strandings of cetaceans in Oman: Ra's Sawadi to Rakhyut},
author = {Papastavrou,V.,Salm,R.V.},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {Cetaceans and Cetacean Research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary: Marine Mammal Technical Report Number 3},
number = {427},
publisher = {United Nations Environment Programme},
keywords = {cetacean, cetaceans, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, Oman, sanctuaries, Strandings, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
Reeves,R.R.,Leatherwood,S.,Papastavrou,V.
Possible stock affinities of humpback whales in the northern Indian Ocean Book
UNEP, 1991.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling
@book{,
title = {Possible stock affinities of humpback whales in the northern Indian Ocean},
author = {Reeves,R.R.,Leatherwood,S.,Papastavrou,V.},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {Cetaceans and Cetacean Research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary: Marine Mammal Technical Report Number 3},
number = {443},
pages = {259-269},
publisher = {UNEP},
abstract = {Records of humpback whales. Megaptera novaeangliae. in the northern Indian Ocean are compiled and evaluated to test various hypotheses concerning stock relationships. The conventional view that all humpbacks in this region are migrants from the Southern Hemisphere or, less likely, from the Pacific Ocean has been challenged recently by other authors. There is no reason to doubt that some Antarctic humpbacks cross the. Equator during their winter breeding migration northward. However, sightings in the northern Indian Ocean during the austral spring, summer and fall arc sufficiently frequent and widespread to support the hypothesis that some whales remain north of the Equator in the Indian Ocean year-round. Humpbacks appear to be present off Oman throughout the year, including relatively large concentrations, apparently feeding, during boreal summer/fall. We postulate that areas of cool, highly productive upwelling near the coast of Oman create conditions suitable for humpback feeding. The northern Indian Ocean is characterised by a virtual absence of modern commercial whaling and a paucity of cetacean research. As a result. evidence is insufficient to determine the relationships between stocks of humpbacks in the northern Indian Ocean and stocks of humpbacks elsewhere.},
keywords = {Antarctic, cetacean, cetaceans, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, migration, Oman, Pacific Ocean, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, stocks, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {book}
}
Records of humpback whales. Megaptera novaeangliae. in the northern Indian Ocean are compiled and evaluated to test various hypotheses concerning stock relationships. The conventional view that all humpbacks in this region are migrants from the Southern Hemisphere or, less likely, from the Pacific Ocean has been challenged recently by other authors. There is no reason to doubt that some Antarctic humpbacks cross the. Equator during their winter breeding migration northward. However, sightings in the northern Indian Ocean during the austral spring, summer and fall arc sufficiently frequent and widespread to support the hypothesis that some whales remain north of the Equator in the Indian Ocean year-round. Humpbacks appear to be present off Oman throughout the year, including relatively large concentrations, apparently feeding, during boreal summer/fall. We postulate that areas of cool, highly productive upwelling near the coast of Oman create conditions suitable for humpback feeding. The northern Indian Ocean is characterised by a virtual absence of modern commercial whaling and a paucity of cetacean research. As a result. evidence is insufficient to determine the relationships between stocks of humpbacks in the northern Indian Ocean and stocks of humpbacks elsewhere.
Small,J.A..,Small,G.J.
Cetacean observations from the Somali Democratic Republic, September 1985 through May 1987 Journal Article
In: CEtaceans and Cetacean Research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary: UNEP - Marine Mammal Technical Report No.3, no. 476, pp. 179-210, 1991.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: Antarctic, Blue whale, bottlenose dolphin, Bryde's whale, cetacean, cetaceans, Common dolphin, dolphin, false killer whale, Gulf of Aden, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, killer whale, location, marine, megaptera novaeangliae, melon-headed whale, migration, occurrence, Oman, Pacific Ocean, Risso's dolphin, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, sperm whale, Spinner dolphin, spotted dolphin, stocks, Striped dolphin, survey, trend, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling
@article{,
title = {Cetacean observations from the Somali Democratic Republic, September 1985 through May 1987},
author = {Small,J.A..,Small,G.J.},
year = {1991},
date = {1991-01-01},
journal = {CEtaceans and Cetacean Research in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary: UNEP - Marine Mammal Technical Report No.3},
number = {476},
pages = {179-210},
abstract = {Two vessels operated along the Gulf of Aden and northern Indian Ocean coasts of Somalia from Aug. 1985 through May 1987. Their fishing activities carried them on a routine basis from Djibouti to the Horn of Africa and, on many cruises, into the Indian Ocean as far south as 8øN. The frequent and regular presence of these vessels afforded a unique opportunity for research since few previous surveys along the Somalian coast were transitory and/or of short duration. There were 398 sightings of cetaceans representing at least 14 species: blue whale, Bryde's whale, sperm whale, melon-headed whale, false killer whale, killer whale, short-finned pilot whale, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, Risso's dolphin, spotted dolphin, striped dolphin and spinner dolphin (NO humpback whales!!). Sightings locations and related environmental data are discussed. Some trends between years were seen in the occurrence and location of blue, killer and short-finned pilot whales.},
keywords = {Antarctic, Blue whale, bottlenose dolphin, Bryde's whale, cetacean, cetaceans, Common dolphin, dolphin, false killer whale, Gulf of Aden, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, killer whale, location, marine, megaptera novaeangliae, melon-headed whale, migration, occurrence, Oman, Pacific Ocean, Risso's dolphin, sanctuaries, Southern Hemisphere, sperm whale, Spinner dolphin, spotted dolphin, stocks, Striped dolphin, survey, trend, Upwelling, whale, whales, whaling},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Two vessels operated along the Gulf of Aden and northern Indian Ocean coasts of Somalia from Aug. 1985 through May 1987. Their fishing activities carried them on a routine basis from Djibouti to the Horn of Africa and, on many cruises, into the Indian Ocean as far south as 8øN. The frequent and regular presence of these vessels afforded a unique opportunity for research since few previous surveys along the Somalian coast were transitory and/or of short duration. There were 398 sightings of cetaceans representing at least 14 species: blue whale, Bryde's whale, sperm whale, melon-headed whale, false killer whale, killer whale, short-finned pilot whale, Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, common dolphin, bottlenose dolphin, Risso's dolphin, spotted dolphin, striped dolphin and spinner dolphin (NO humpback whales!!). Sightings locations and related environmental data are discussed. Some trends between years were seen in the occurrence and location of blue, killer and short-finned pilot whales.
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.
Clark,J.E.
Proposals for a System of Nature Conservation Areas Technical Report
no. 348, 1986.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: cetacean, conservation, endangered, habitat, Humpback Whale, management, marine, objectives, Oman, population, populations, survey, whale
@techreport{,
title = {Proposals for a System of Nature Conservation Areas},
author = {Clark,J.E.},
year = {1986},
date = {1986-01-01},
number = {348},
pages = {1-477},
publisher = {IUCN},
abstract = {This report describes the outcome of a nature conservation project set up by the Government of the Sultanate of Oman and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Oman is a state member of IUCN. The project was operational for almost 20 months, starting in October 1984. An IUCN consultant Project Leader and an Omani Assistant Project Leader were employed full time. Five other IUCN specialists were employed on short term consultancies. The project's goal was to prepare in-depth plans for a system of nature conservation areas (NCAs) in Oman. The resultant nature conservation programme would form part of Oman's total land use strategy. The plans were to include prescriptions for policy and law; the design of a NCA system; and proposals for the structure and operation of a Directorate General of Wildlife and Nature Conservation. This new Government entity is expected to be set up in the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources . The specific requirements for the proposed NCA system were threefold. Firstly, it should be representative of Oman's varied wild habitats, terrestrial and marine: we identified, described and mapped 43 different Land Classes and 12 Marine Habitats. Secondly, it should conserve populations of all threatened and endemic wildlife found in Oman, and other species judged to be of special interest: we identified 94 plant and 100 animal taxa that fell within this grouping. Thirdly, it should protect selected sites and areas, chosen because they had interesting biotic or abiotic features. We identified and described 89 such sites. The sites comprised desert pools and seepages, coastal lagoons, tidal inlets, marine sites, botanical sites, caves, geological and geomorphological sites and landscapes. The resultant system that we designed consists of 91 NCAs, dispersed widely throughout Oman, and covering a total area of 119,798 sq. km. We proposed that there should be three different categories of NCA: national nature reserve (NNR), 59 areas; national scenic reserve (NSR), 20 areas; and national resource reserve (NRR), 12 areas. NNRs are the most strictly managed category: permanent human settlement is not permitted. NSRs may contain human settlement but the laws provide mechanisms for controlling human activities in conformity with nature conservation objectives. NRR is a temporary category of NCA, given to areas that are clearly of interest but about which insufficient is known to justify delineating NCA boundaries. NRRs are identified as priority areas for further studies that may lead to their becoming NNRs or NSRs. We also provided for the protection of selected wildlife outside the NCA system. We recommended two categories of protected wildlife: those that should be granted full protection, and those that be partially protected to the extent that controlled, licensed taking could be permitted. (The only cetacean species mentioned in this list is the humpback whale, which is tentatively classified as endangered. This is probably due to the lack of information about any other species at that time. Marine sites proposed for protection were selected "ont he basis of their having interesting sublittoral features". Selection was on the basis of biological or scenic characteristics. The authors acknowledge that the survey was limited in its study of marine sites, but believe that their proposals include so many long stretches of coastline that important habitats will be included. Marine areas proposed for first priority in active management (NNRs) include Jazirat Umm al Fayyarin (Musandam), Ras Suwadi, Daymaniyat Islands, Qurm/Fahal, Bandar Jissah, Ras al Hadd, Ras al Junays, Barr al Hikmann, Hasikiyah, Qibliyah, Marbat, Khawr Rawri and Khawr Salalah. Sawda and Hallaniya are propsed as NSR's.},
keywords = {cetacean, conservation, endangered, habitat, Humpback Whale, management, marine, objectives, Oman, population, populations, survey, whale},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
This report describes the outcome of a nature conservation project set up by the Government of the Sultanate of Oman and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). Oman is a state member of IUCN. The project was operational for almost 20 months, starting in October 1984. An IUCN consultant Project Leader and an Omani Assistant Project Leader were employed full time. Five other IUCN specialists were employed on short term consultancies. The project's goal was to prepare in-depth plans for a system of nature conservation areas (NCAs) in Oman. The resultant nature conservation programme would form part of Oman's total land use strategy. The plans were to include prescriptions for policy and law; the design of a NCA system; and proposals for the structure and operation of a Directorate General of Wildlife and Nature Conservation. This new Government entity is expected to be set up in the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources . The specific requirements for the proposed NCA system were threefold. Firstly, it should be representative of Oman's varied wild habitats, terrestrial and marine: we identified, described and mapped 43 different Land Classes and 12 Marine Habitats. Secondly, it should conserve populations of all threatened and endemic wildlife found in Oman, and other species judged to be of special interest: we identified 94 plant and 100 animal taxa that fell within this grouping. Thirdly, it should protect selected sites and areas, chosen because they had interesting biotic or abiotic features. We identified and described 89 such sites. The sites comprised desert pools and seepages, coastal lagoons, tidal inlets, marine sites, botanical sites, caves, geological and geomorphological sites and landscapes. The resultant system that we designed consists of 91 NCAs, dispersed widely throughout Oman, and covering a total area of 119,798 sq. km. We proposed that there should be three different categories of NCA: national nature reserve (NNR), 59 areas; national scenic reserve (NSR), 20 areas; and national resource reserve (NRR), 12 areas. NNRs are the most strictly managed category: permanent human settlement is not permitted. NSRs may contain human settlement but the laws provide mechanisms for controlling human activities in conformity with nature conservation objectives. NRR is a temporary category of NCA, given to areas that are clearly of interest but about which insufficient is known to justify delineating NCA boundaries. NRRs are identified as priority areas for further studies that may lead to their becoming NNRs or NSRs. We also provided for the protection of selected wildlife outside the NCA system. We recommended two categories of protected wildlife: those that should be granted full protection, and those that be partially protected to the extent that controlled, licensed taking could be permitted. (The only cetacean species mentioned in this list is the humpback whale, which is tentatively classified as endangered. This is probably due to the lack of information about any other species at that time. Marine sites proposed for protection were selected "ont he basis of their having interesting sublittoral features". Selection was on the basis of biological or scenic characteristics. The authors acknowledge that the survey was limited in its study of marine sites, but believe that their proposals include so many long stretches of coastline that important habitats will be included. Marine areas proposed for first priority in active management (NNRs) include Jazirat Umm al Fayyarin (Musandam), Ras Suwadi, Daymaniyat Islands, Qurm/Fahal, Bandar Jissah, Ras al Hadd, Ras al Junays, Barr al Hikmann, Hasikiyah, Qibliyah, Marbat, Khawr Rawri and Khawr Salalah. Sawda and Hallaniya are propsed as NSR's.
Alling,A.
A preliminary report of marine mammal fisheries in Djibouti, Oman and Sri Lanka. Technical Report
no. 279, 1983.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: by-catch, dolphin, dolphins, Fisheries, Indian Ocean, mammals, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, nets, Oman, sperm whale, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {A preliminary report of marine mammal fisheries in Djibouti, Oman and Sri Lanka.},
author = {Alling,A.},
year = {1983},
date = {1983-01-01},
volume = {NARA/SMMIO/SP32 presented to the Symposi},
number = {279},
pages = {1-8},
abstract = {During the voyage of the Tulip (Indian Ocean Sperm Whale project) fishermen and officials were interviewed at different ports of call. In Oman, officials "agreed" to the following: 1) There is a small dolphin fishery in Oman, primarily located off the Island of Masirah. 2) The extent of this fishery is questionable and it is not clear if there is any by-catch. 3) The meat is used for human consumption and as shark bait. 4) Whales are not hunted, but they are seldom caught in nets. 5) It was not clear if whale meat is eaten. Further, the paper focuses on bycatch and direct takes of dolphins in Sri Lanka, where estimates were placed at over 15,000 dolphins being by-caught in fisheries per year.},
keywords = {by-catch, dolphin, dolphins, Fisheries, Indian Ocean, mammals, marine, marine mammal, Marine mammals, nets, Oman, sperm whale, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
During the voyage of the Tulip (Indian Ocean Sperm Whale project) fishermen and officials were interviewed at different ports of call. In Oman, officials "agreed" to the following: 1) There is a small dolphin fishery in Oman, primarily located off the Island of Masirah. 2) The extent of this fishery is questionable and it is not clear if there is any by-catch. 3) The meat is used for human consumption and as shark bait. 4) Whales are not hunted, but they are seldom caught in nets. 5) It was not clear if whale meat is eaten. Further, the paper focuses on bycatch and direct takes of dolphins in Sri Lanka, where estimates were placed at over 15,000 dolphins being by-caught in fisheries per year.
Alling,G.,Gordon,J.,Rotton,N.,Whitehead,H.
Indian Ocean Sperm Whale study, 1981 - 1982 interim report Technical Report
no. 281, 1982.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: behaviour, dolphin, dolphins, Eubalaena glacialis, Fisheries, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, objectives, Oman, physeter, population, populations, sanctuaries, sperm whale, sperm whales, survey, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Indian Ocean Sperm Whale study, 1981 - 1982 interim report},
author = {Alling,G.,Gordon,J.,Rotton,N.,Whitehead,H.},
year = {1982},
date = {1982-01-01},
number = {281},
pages = {1-43},
publisher = {WWF},
abstract = {The establishment of the Indian Ocean Whale Sanctuary in 1979 gave whale science an opportunity and a challenge: the opportunity to study protected whale; and the challenge to show that whale populations can be monitored purely through studies of living animals. The sperm whale (Physeter catodon), is commercially the most important, and the most numerous, large whale. It may be a significant link in the food web on account of returning nutrients from the deep ocean to the surface through its faeces. Analysis of the composition of sperm whale catches suggests that the sperm whale possesses a unique and interesting social system (Best 1979), a thorough knowledge of which is essential if these exceptional animals are to be properly protected.It was thus appropriate to carry out a study of the behaviour of the sperm whales in the Indian Ocean, principally using the methods developed on living right, grey and humpback whales, and the money raised by WWF-Netherlands. In order to obtain significant results it was thought necessary to have three field seasons of several months each.As very little was known of the whales of the Indian Ocean the first season consisted of a survey of those parts of the NW Indian Ocean which might have been suitable for studying sperm whales. During the survey methods of studying living sperm whales were to be developed, and other whales, dolphins, and marine mammal fisheries examined as circumstances permitted. From this survey we were to decide on the most suitable area and methods for studying sperm whales in subsequent seasons. We were also to recommend which other marine mammal research projects in the area should be undertaken, either as part of our project or separately.We report here on the first field season. Because of the deadline (within two weeks of the end of the field work) the data has not been rigorously analysed, and we can give only the most basic results. However we hope that this report indicates that the study was successful within its objectives.},
keywords = {behaviour, dolphin, dolphins, Eubalaena glacialis, Fisheries, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, megaptera novaeangliae, objectives, Oman, physeter, population, populations, sanctuaries, sperm whale, sperm whales, survey, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
The establishment of the Indian Ocean Whale Sanctuary in 1979 gave whale science an opportunity and a challenge: the opportunity to study protected whale; and the challenge to show that whale populations can be monitored purely through studies of living animals. The sperm whale (Physeter catodon), is commercially the most important, and the most numerous, large whale. It may be a significant link in the food web on account of returning nutrients from the deep ocean to the surface through its faeces. Analysis of the composition of sperm whale catches suggests that the sperm whale possesses a unique and interesting social system (Best 1979), a thorough knowledge of which is essential if these exceptional animals are to be properly protected.It was thus appropriate to carry out a study of the behaviour of the sperm whales in the Indian Ocean, principally using the methods developed on living right, grey and humpback whales, and the money raised by WWF-Netherlands. In order to obtain significant results it was thought necessary to have three field seasons of several months each.As very little was known of the whales of the Indian Ocean the first season consisted of a survey of those parts of the NW Indian Ocean which might have been suitable for studying sperm whales. During the survey methods of studying living sperm whales were to be developed, and other whales, dolphins, and marine mammal fisheries examined as circumstances permitted. From this survey we were to decide on the most suitable area and methods for studying sperm whales in subsequent seasons. We were also to recommend which other marine mammal research projects in the area should be undertaken, either as part of our project or separately.We report here on the first field season. Because of the deadline (within two weeks of the end of the field work) the data has not been rigorously analysed, and we can give only the most basic results. However we hope that this report indicates that the study was successful within its objectives.
Ross,J.P.
Recent marine mammal sightings in the Sultanate of Oman (1980-1981) Technical Report
no. 462, 1981.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tags: breeding grounds, cetacean, cetaceans, dugong, feeding, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, Oman, sanctuaries, Strandings, whale, whales
@techreport{,
title = {Recent marine mammal sightings in the Sultanate of Oman (1980-1981)},
author = {Ross,J.P.},
year = {1981},
date = {1981-01-01},
journal = {Report presented to the special meeting of the IWC to plan a programme of scientific research on cetaceans in the Indian Ocean Sanctuary, Zeist, Netherlands.},
volume = {Document 23},
number = {462},
abstract = {This brief report summarises observations of live cetaceans, strandings and interviews with local fishermen. The source of sighting and stranding information is not always clear - stranded specimens referred to in this report were curated at the Zoological Museum in Amsterdam and the ONHM are also summarised in Gallagher 1991. JPR describes one stranding of a Dugong near Barka. He also describes Masirah fishermen's observations of a large whale with "bumps on its head like coffee cups" and long white flippers that they slap on the surface. He concludes that these are almost certainly humpback whales "migrating between summer feeding and winter breeding grounds. He also suggests that they were feeding on sardines which were abundant in the region during "these months" (although months not specified). Although he indicates that Oman's coast is abundant in food, yet tropical and thus suitable for breeding, he does not explicitly suggest that the humpbacks are year-round residents.},
keywords = {breeding grounds, cetacean, cetaceans, dugong, feeding, Humpback Whale, humpback whales, Indian Ocean, marine, marine mammal, Oman, sanctuaries, Strandings, whale, whales},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {techreport}
}
This brief report summarises observations of live cetaceans, strandings and interviews with local fishermen. The source of sighting and stranding information is not always clear - stranded specimens referred to in this report were curated at the Zoological Museum in Amsterdam and the ONHM are also summarised in Gallagher 1991. JPR describes one stranding of a Dugong near Barka. He also describes Masirah fishermen's observations of a large whale with "bumps on its head like coffee cups" and long white flippers that they slap on the surface. He concludes that these are almost certainly humpback whales "migrating between summer feeding and winter breeding grounds. He also suggests that they were feeding on sardines which were abundant in the region during "these months" (although months not specified). Although he indicates that Oman's coast is abundant in food, yet tropical and thus suitable for breeding, he does not explicitly suggest that the humpbacks are year-round residents.
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.