Sustaining Saudi Arabia's reefs for the future

Summary

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.