Population density and abundance of Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas) in one of the largest feeding grounds in the Egyptian Red Sea. Issue 2 (3rd April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fouad, Ahmed; Hossam, Lina; Attum, Omar
• Is Part Of: Zoology in the Middle East. Volume 68:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 121
• Page End: 125
• Publication Date: 2022-04-03
• Subjects: Sea grass cover -- Abu Dabbab Bay -- population trend; Zoology -- Middle East -- Periodicals; 591.95605
• DOI: 10.1080/09397140.2022.2073685
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0939-7140

Abstract

Abstract : Green turtles ( Chelonia mydas ) are globally endangered and very little is known about their population in Egypt's Red Sea. Abu Dabbab Bay was believed to contain one of the most dense and important green turtle feeding grounds in the Egyptian Red Sea. The results of our surveys suggest that Abu Dabbab Bay is a high density feeding ground with 612±61.9 turtles/km 2 and a mean population size of 104±10 turtles. The density and abundance of green turtles in Abu Dabbab bay has at least doubled, depending upon survey month, in a ten year span This increase could be the result of reduced shark populations in the Red Sea, a temporary reduction of tourist numbers from the Covid 19 pandemic, and/or local initiatives by private stakeholders to reduce disturbance. Regular monitoring the is needed to better understand the reasons for future population trends.