Dugong study expanded
Posted: 19 February 2007
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Total Abu Al Bukhoosh and Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) signed an agreement to monitor and study the dugongs in the UAE.
The deal which extends Total’s support for another two years was signed by Majid Al Mansouri, secretary general of EAD; Henry Delafon, general manager of Total Abu Al Bukhoosh; and Bernard Tramier, executive director of La Foundation D’Entreprise Total at the Environment 2007.
The Arabian Gulf and Red Sea which host more than 7,000 dugongs, has the largest dugong population next to Australia . About 40% of this population occurs in Abu Dhabi .
EAD has undertaken studies on dugongs in the UAE since 1999, with funding from Total.
The first phase extended for four years and focused on obtaining information on the distribution. The second phase included biological and ecological aspects and stock structure of the species. The results helped in preparing the conservation plan as well as in developing regional cooperation among dugong range states.
The elevated pace of development in Abu Dhabi particularly in the coastal areas adds more impetus to monitor the dugongs.
“We need to ensure that we do not only implement the conservations method adopted but also continue to remain alert through continued research and enhancement of public awareness particularly within the Arabian Gulf and Western Indian Ocean region,” Al Mansouri said.
Phase three aims to deliver: continued assessment of the status of dugong through monitoring, time series information on dugong population and habitats, improved information on seasonal distribution of dugongs in relation to habitat parameters, fully operational management plan for conservation of dugongs, improved data on dugong biology and behavior, and the establishment of regional memorandum of understanding on dugong conservation. |
