Synthesis and evaluation of coastal and marine biodiversity spatial information in the United Arab Emirates for ecosystem-based management. (June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mateos-Molina, D.; Ben Lamine, E.; Antonopoulou, M.; Burt, J.A.; Das, H.S.; Javed, S.; Judas, J.; Khan, S.B.; Muzaffar, S.B.; Pilcher, N.; Rodriguez-Zarate, C.J.; Taylor, O.J.S.; Giakoumi, S.
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 167(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-06
• Subjects: Ecosystem-based management -- Ecological mapping -- Marine spatial planning -- Marine conservation -- Data quality assessment -- Local ecological knowledge -- United Arab Emirates -- Arabian Gulf; Marine pollution -- Periodicals; Marine Biology -- Periodicals; Water Pollution -- Periodicals; Mer -- Pollution -- Périodiques; Publications périodiques; Pollution des mers; Lutte antipollution; Electronic journals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112319
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) host valuable coastal and marine biodiversity that is subjected to multiple pressures under extreme conditions. To mitigate impacts on marine ecosystems, the UAE protects almost 12% of its Exclusive Economic Zone. This study mapped and validated the distribution of key coastal and marine habitats, species and critical areas for their life cycle in the Gulf area of the UAE. We identified gaps in the current protection of these ecological features and assessed the quality of the data used. The overall dataset showed good data quality, but deficiencies in information for the coastline of the north-western emirates. The existing protected areas are inadequate to safeguard key ecological features such as mangroves and coastal lagoons. This study offers a solid basis to understand the spatial distribution and protection of marine biodiversity in the UAE. This information should be considered for implementing effective conservation planning and ecosystem-based management. Highlights: Mapping species and habitats is necessary for effective ecosystem-based management. We compiled data to map marine and coastal biodiversity distribution in the UAE. Data quality assessment showed that data are sufficient to guide management. Current MPA extension is insufficient to safeguard some habitats such as mangroves. The information provided should be used in future conservation plans and management.