KAUST · · Significant research
KAUST researchers, partnering with the Queensland Government, discovered 34 previously unknown seagrass meadows in the Red Sea by tracking the foraging behavior of green turtles. They tagged and tracked 53 turtles, revealing that the turtles were approximately 20 times more reliable at identifying seagrass meadows compared to the Allen Coral Atlas. This method also proved to be significantly more cost-effective than traditional methods like airplanes with hyperspectral sensors. Why it matters: This study highlights a novel, cost-effective approach to mapping blue carbon ecosystems, crucial for carbon capture and marine habitat preservation, and provides valuable data for sustainability policies in the Red Sea region.
KAUST · Red Sea · seagrass meadows · blue carbon · green turtles
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KAUST ·
KAUST held a Research Workshop on Blue Carbon on March 20 and 21. The workshop focused on the role of blue carbon ecosystems, such as mangroves and seagrass meadows, in mitigating climate change. Experts discussed the importance of these ecosystems. Why it matters: This highlights growing research and awareness in Saudi Arabia around leveraging natural resources for climate solutions.
KAUST ·
KAUST researchers are using autonomous gliders in the Red Sea to monitor variables such as temperature, salinity, and chlorophyll, providing continuous, detailed measurements of the sea's physical and biogeochemical processes. These gliders can measure a number of variables, including temperature, salinity, chlorophyll, and concentration of dissolved organic matter. One glider was deployed for three months and monitored the formation of mesoscale eddies and anthropogenic inputs from aquaculture. Why it matters: This technology allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the Red Sea ecosystem and its dynamics, benefiting research and applications such as monitoring the impact of aquaculture, with potential implications for environmental management and sustainable resource utilization.
KAUST ·
KAUST researchers and German collaborators explored the Red Sea's depths using the RV Meteor, employing ROVs and seismic equipment to map geological and biological features. They examined underwater hot springs, microbial mats, and deep-sea brine pools, discovering hydrothermal vent fields with unique ecosystems. The research, involving multidisciplinary teams, provides insights into the Red Sea's geology, ecosystems, and biodiversity. Why it matters: Studying the Red Sea's unique environment can offer valuable knowledge about young ocean development and novel marine ecosystems, relevant for understanding similar geological formations and biodiversity hotspots in the region.
KAUST ·
KAUST's Hydrology, Agriculture and Land Observation Lab (HALO) uses remote sensing tools like drones to map and monitor agricultural sites, including one of the world's largest olive farms in Al Jouf. They also collaborate with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture of Saudi Arabia and the Center for Desert Agriculture. HALO's mangrove project focuses on carbon sequestration by Avicennia marina mangroves in the Red Sea as part of the KAUST Circular Carbon Initiative. Why it matters: This research contributes to understanding and promoting the conservation of mangrove ecosystems for carbon neutrality in line with Saudi Arabia's sustainability goals.