Saudi Arabia Initiates National Programme To Safeguard Red Sea And Arabian Gulf From Invasive Species

The National Center for Wildlife (NCW) and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have initiated a significant national program. This initiative aims to safeguard the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf from invasive species, aligning with Saudi Arabia's commitment to marine biodiversity conservation. The program is the first of its kind in the Kingdom, focusing on creating a comprehensive database of non-native marine species.

Advanced research techniques are employed, such as field surveys, DNA barcoding, and maritime traffic analysis. These methods help establish a scientific foundation for understanding species distribution and dispersal pathways. Initial findings indicate the presence of numerous potential non-native marine species: 181 in the Red Sea and 168 in the Arabian Gulf.

These species are predominantly found near ports and coastal infrastructure, which informs targeted monitoring efforts. The program has also developed the region's first genetic fingerprint library for these species. This library is crucial for quickly identifying future threats to marine ecosystems.

In addition to data collection, the initiative has enhanced national capabilities through training programs. It has improved marine biosecurity measures to meet international standards. Based on these outcomes, NCW is formulating a national marine biosecurity framework to address invasive species in collaboration with relevant authorities.

Dr. Mohammed Qurban, CEO of NCW, emphasized that this program underscores Saudi Arabia's dedication to advancing scientific research for marine protection. This aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative. "This program reflects the Kingdom's unwavering commitment to promoting scientific research and its applications in marine environment protection," he stated.

The establishment of this program marks a significant step towards preserving marine biodiversity in Saudi Arabia. By focusing on non-native species, it aims to protect ecosystems from potential threats while enhancing environmental planning efforts across the region.

With inputs from SPA