Investigating mangrove ecosystems for supporting biodiversity and identifying conservation opportunities in the southern Arabian Gulf

Abstract

Mangroves in the Arabian region are often connected to nearby habitats, greatly benefiting local marine life and people. However, while mangrove research has expanded globally, those in the Arabian region remain understudied. This thesis aims to investigate the role of mangrove habitats in supporting marine species and the perceptions of people to identify the best ways to use available information to target conservation efforts in the Arabian region. Two systematic literature reviews were undertaken to identify publication trends in the mangrove literature on the importance of mangrove habitat for supporting marine species (Chapter Two), and on the literature temporal trends and geographical coverage in the Arabian region (Chapter Three). Fish habitat use within mangrove microhabitats (Chapter Four) and the perception of people on the conservation of mangroves in Arabia were investigated (Chapter Five). The results show that at least 65% of the research focused on fish populations in mangroves and adjacent habitats, typically concentrated in the tropical Atlantic and Oceania regions. Arabian literature on mangroves has steadily increased, yet it exhibits a lack of diversity in research topics, with an underrepresentation of areas known for their substantial mangrove presence, such as the southern Gulf subregion. The underwater visual census showed young fish in greater abundance and diversity in mangroves exhibiting greater structural complexity compared to less complex habitats like mudflats. Fish patterns were influenced by seasonal temperature changes, which underscores the sensitivity of fish communities to environmental conditions. Through semi-structured interviews, regional perspectives on mangroves among different groups varied. Key challenges in the region include research and restoration method gaps, lack of policies to address threats from human activities, and insufficient communication between different stakeholder groups, such as local communities and environmental managers. This thesis suggests we should prioritize scientific research of mangroves and adjacent coastal ecosystems, seek to incorporate traditional knowledge into conservation planning and improve regional and international collaboration. Filling these gaps will adopt a holistic approach that bridges ecological and social considerations to strengthen mangrove protection and raise the international profile of Arabian mangroves.