A glider deployed by KAUST's Coastal and Marine Resources Core Lab (CMOR) completed 1,000 dives in the Red Sea. The dives, completed by November 22, 2015, are part of ongoing marine research at KAUST. The glider is maintained by Lloyd Smith, supervisor of marine electronics at CMOR. Why it matters: This demonstrates KAUST's commitment to environmental monitoring and research in the Red Sea, contributing to a better understanding of the region's unique marine ecosystem.
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 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.
Victor Vescovo and the Caladan Oceanic crew, in cooperation with KAUST, made multiple manned dives into the Red Sea. They reached the deepest point, the Suakin Trough, for the first time. The team also dove the Kebrit Deep, which is shallower but scientifically important. Why it matters: This exploration provides an opportunity to study and protect the unique resources of the Red Sea's deepest regions, furthering scientific understanding of these previously inaccessible environments.
KAUST researchers are working on solutions to regional and global problems. A KAUST underwater glider completed 1,000 dives in the Red Sea. KAUST was ranked 19th globally in the Nature Index 2016 of top institutions for high-quality science. Why it matters: This illustrates KAUST's commitment to impactful research and its role as a leading scientific institution in the region.