Kuwait loses 90 % of corals reefs in the Arab Gulf

Global Arab Network: Kuwait loses 90 % of corals reefs in the Arab Gulf

Head of the Kuwait Diving Team Walid Al-Fadhel said in a statement to KUNA, "this requires quick action by the competent authorities to find out the real causes, as well as solutions." He also called on frequent goers to these marine natural sites to refrain from any action that may inflict damage in the reefs or kill the creatures co-existing with them.

The comprehensive survey, conducted by the team, included the major locations of coral reefs 50 miles along the shores and 70 km from the southern coast borders, with depths ranging from 1-13 meters.

The combing covered Um Al-Maradim, Kheiran, Ras Al-Zor, Garouh, Um Diera, Teyler, Kubbar and Oraifjan with the result of 90 percent of "bleaching" of the coral reef.

At the begining of noticing this phenomenon, he added, dead fish were found floating on the water surface, or laying between the corals, yet not anymore.

Al-Fadhel said that the team does not know the causes for this disaster, but it is either a natural or human, which requires the competent authorities, whether global or local, to examine and prepare accurate studies. He noted that the diving team proceeded to contact several local and international companies (interested in this matter) and send the necessary reports with some samples of sites affected for study.

Furthermore, he pointed out that the team had highlighted through awareness campaigns the necessity of protecting the coral reefs and raising tons of waste and nets off them.

Al-Fadhel revealed an initiative to offset the environmental destruction of coral reefs by expanding the reserves of Kuwait Jaber marine sites, rehabilitation of coral reefs and coral farming, in coordination with French experts.

He then expressed readiness of his team to coordinate and cooperate with scientific sectors to follow up on this phenomenon and seek to rehabilitate these locations.