Title: Bahrain marine habitats and some environmental effects on seagrass beds : a study of the marine habitats of Bahrain with particular reference to the effects of water temperature, depth and salinity on seagrass biomass and distribution
Abstract:This thesis presents a study of the marine habitats of Bahrain together with details of some of the
physical factors which may effect the distribution of those habitat types. Satellite remote sensing...This thesis presents a study of the marine habitats of Bahrain together with details of some of the
physical factors which may effect the distribution of those habitat types. Satellite remote sensing
techniques were employed together with aerial photography and in-field 'ground-truthing' to
locate 8 distinct habitat type. A comparison between the satellite-predicted habitat types and the
actual habitats present reveals an accuracy of greater than 87%. Over 250 intertidal and subtidal
study sites were surveyed for community type, key species, water quality measurements and
seasonal variation. A final map of 12 habitat types was produced by expanding on the satellite
characterisation using results from the detailed field surveys and the aerial reconnaissance. A set
of sensitivity maps was drawn up to identify areas of commercial and scientific importance and
to allocate areas in need of conservation, protection and management. The importance of each
habitat type and its role in the overall ecosystem is discussed. The findings of this survey
constitute the foundations for an effective national marine conservation strategy.
Seagrass beds are identified as one of the most important habitat types around Bahrain and the
effects of temperature, depth and salinity on the distribution and biomass of the three native
species of seagrass are investigated. These three factors are identified as being the most variable
physical factors likely to constrain seagrass growth and distribution. 14 sites were surveyed at
different seasonal periods to collect data on the biomass, leaf length and leaf number of the
different species of seagrass along with temperature, depth and salinity data. The leaf
measurements and biomass data from the 3 species of seagrass show a clear relationship to
physical factors. Temperature effects the growth of all 3 species to a varying extent. Water depth
influences the distribution and growth patterns of Halodule uninervis and Halophila stipulacea.
Salinity has no apparent effect on biomass or distribution. The possibility that salinity influences
growth pattern and leaf morphology, particularly in Halophila ovalis, is inconclusive and would
require further investigation.Read More
Publication Year: 1995
Publication Date: 1995-01-01
Language: en
Type: dissertation
Access and Citation
Cited By Count: 8
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