KAUST researchers and international collaborators tagged 15 Chilean devil rays in the Atlantic, revealing unexpected deep-diving behavior. The tags recorded dives reaching almost 2,000 meters at speeds of 6 meters per second and temperatures below 4 degrees Celsius. The rays exhibited two distinct diving patterns, including long periods at 1,000 meters and stepwise returns to the surface, possibly for thermoregulation. Why it matters: This research challenges previous assumptions about devil ray behavior and highlights KAUST's contribution to marine biology and understanding of ocean ecosystems.
KAUST researchers, in collaboration with WHOI, studied whale shark movement patterns near the Shib Habil reef in the Red Sea over six years using visual census, acoustic monitoring, and satellite telemetry. The study monitored 84 sharks and found the aggregation to be highly seasonal, with sharks most abundant in April and May, returning yearly. The site may serve as a nursery for the wider Indian Ocean population, attracting juvenile females, which is unique to Shib Habil. Why it matters: Understanding whale shark behavior and critical habitats like Shib Habil is vital for future conservation efforts of this endangered species in the Red Sea and the broader Indian Ocean.
An international team including KAUST researchers tracked nearly 2,000 sharks using satellite tags to map their movement and space use. The study found that 24% of shark habitats overlap with pelagic longline fisheries, with higher overlap for commercially exploited species. For North Atlantic blue and shortfin mako sharks, the overlap was 76% and 62% respectively. Why it matters: This research highlights the vulnerability of sharks to industrial fishing and underscores the need for targeted conservation efforts in critical habitats.
KAUST alumna Dr. Royale Hardenstine (Ph.D. '20, MS '15) is studying the movements and behavior of marine animals in the Red Sea, including whale sharks. Her Ph.D. research showed the connectivity of Red Sea whale sharks to the larger Indo-Pacific population and movements between aggregation sites. Now working as Protected Species Science Manager at The Red Sea Development Company, she monitors marine life in the Kingdom's future Special Economic Zones. Why it matters: This research is crucial for informing conservation efforts and mitigating the impact of coastal development on vulnerable marine species in the Red Sea.
KAUST marine scientists, led by Dr. Michael Berumen, tracked 47 whale sharks near Al-Lith in the Red Sea using satellite tags. The study, published in PLOS ONE, identifies the area as a significant nursery for the species. The research provides valuable insights into the movement patterns of whale sharks. Why it matters: Understanding these patterns is crucial for effective conservation efforts for this vulnerable species in the Red Sea.
KAUST scientists have successfully expanded coral spawning through controlled systems, producing approximately two million eggs from six coral species this season to support reef research. Researchers at KAUST's Coastal and Marine Resources (CMR) Core Lab developed facilities that replicate environmental signals to trigger spawning beyond natural seasonal cycles, enabling year-round access to gametes and larvae. This program represents the first successful implementation of shifted phase coral spawning in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This breakthrough provides unprecedented opportunities for advancing Red Sea reef restoration and marine science, allowing for continuous study of coral early-life resilience.
KAUST became an organizational member of the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS), making it the only entity in Saudi Arabia with the license to provide scientific diver training and certification. KAUST and the Saudi Water Sports & Diving Federation (SWSDF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to implement policies for scientific diving in the Kingdom. KAUST-trained divers can now dive at other member institutes, facilitating research collaborations. Why it matters: This partnership enhances KAUST's role as a hub for marine research and promotes safe scientific diving practices in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST doctoral student Royale Hardenstine is conducting whale shark research in the Red Sea. The research is captured in a video produced by KAUST. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's ongoing research efforts in marine biology and Red Sea ecosystems.