KAUST scientists discovered a new brine pool in the Red Sea, named the Afifi pool, in collaboration with Saudi Aramco. The Afifi pool is the saltiest known in the Red Sea, six times saltier than surrounding seawater, and is located at a depth of 400 meters. Researchers used a variety of tools including Niskin bottles, an Idronaut CTD, and the Research Vessel Thuwal to characterize the pool's physical and chemical properties and sample its microbiology. Why it matters: This discovery facilitates understanding of the geochemistry and microbiology of extreme ecosystems, potentially aiding in the sustainable conservation of the Red Sea and offering insights into potential extraterrestrial environments.
KAUST and the Saudi Red Sea Authority (SRSA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on biodiversity sustainability and marine environment protection in the Red Sea. The collaboration will focus on assessing the impact of coastal tourism, exchanging expertise, and aligning strategies for new initiatives. The MoU aims to support Saudi Vision 2030 targets through strengthened local partnerships. Why it matters: This partnership demonstrates KAUST's commitment to environmental sustainability and highlights the growing importance of protecting the Red Sea's unique ecosystem amidst increasing tourism and development.
KAUST researchers undertook a week-long expedition in May 2017 from Al-Lith, Saudi Arabia to explore the biodiversity of the Red Sea. The expedition involved 35 participants, including KAUST faculty and 10 international marine scientists, and collected over 3,000 specimens. Over 50 species not previously recorded were found during the expedition. Why it matters: Cataloging the Red Sea's biodiversity is crucial given increasing development and provides insights into how marine organisms adapt to extreme conditions, which can inform climate change predictions.
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 scientists and international researchers published a paper in Frontiers in Marine Science detailing marine spatial planning for Saudi's Red Sea Project. The study, involving The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), used spatial planning to achieve net positive conservation outcomes for the Al Wajh lagoon. The research targets a net conservation benefit of 30 percent exceeding typical levels. Why it matters: The study demonstrates that coastal development can enhance conservation through careful design, challenging the traditional view of development versus conservation.