KAUST and KACST have partnered to assess the safety of seafood from the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, with KACST funding an environmental contaminants lab at KAUST. Researchers from KAUST's Coastal & Marine Resources Core Lab (CMR) collect samples, which are then analyzed by the Analytical Chemistry Core Lab (ACL). The project aims to determine the exposure status of the Saudi population to environmental contaminants and provide recommendations on safe seafood consumption. Why it matters: Ensuring the safety of consumable fishery products is crucial for public health and food security in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST researchers are developing an AI tool to classify fish species based on economic value and population growth rate, aiming to aid sustainable fisheries management in Saudi Arabia. The tool will help identify species at risk of decline, supporting marine conservation and food security goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia aims to increase self-sufficiency in seafood production amid declining Red Sea fish populations. Why it matters: This initiative could significantly improve fisheries management and conservation efforts in the Red Sea, informing policy decisions and supporting sustainable food production in line with national objectives.
KAUST and MEWA's Aquaculture Development Program (ADP) showcased achievements at the 6th International Saudi Aquaculture Development Workshop. New fish nutrition formulations developed by KAUST Beacon Development (KBD) could save Saudi Arabia $417 million per year in aquaculture production costs by 2030 through improved feed conversion ratios. KBD has also established complete production cycles for Sobaity and Gilthead seabream under Red Sea conditions. Why it matters: These advancements boost Saudi Arabia's food security and promote sustainable aquaculture, reducing reliance on imports and diversifying the economy in line with Vision 2030.
A KAUST article highlights the threats to Saudi Arabia's coral reefs from pollution, rising ocean temperatures, and overfishing. Prof. Michael Berumen notes an imbalance with too many fish in markets and not enough on reefs, advocating for sustainable fishing. Saudi Arabia's reefs benefit from a relatively low population along the Red Sea coast and the absence of large river systems. Why it matters: Protecting these reefs is crucial for preserving marine biodiversity and ensuring the long-term health of Saudi Arabia's coastal ecosystems.
KAUST and the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) are collaborating on the Aquaculture Development Program (ADP) to advance Saudi Arabia's food security goals under Vision 2030. The ADP aims to increase domestic seafood production to 530,000 tons annually by 2030 through sustainable aquaculture practices. KAUST is employing a multidisciplinary team and innovative approaches like Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA) to optimize resource use and minimize environmental impact. Why it matters: This partnership aims to transform Saudi Arabia's aquaculture sector, reducing reliance on imports and promoting economic diversification while preserving marine biodiversity.