Coral reefs flourish in Musandam peninsula
By Anirban Ray July 21, 2012 Muscat North Musandam peninsula has recorded a mean coral coverage of 58 per cent, according to a report released this month by Biosphere Expeditions, a non- profit wildlife research and conservation organisation. An extensive research along Musandam's coastline, was conducted by the organisation along with the Emirates Diving Association from October 9 - 15, 2011. An increase in parrotfish population and a decrease in the coverage of algae was also seen. The reefs of the area endure a challenging environment with high salinity and temperatures. However, with proper conservation by Biosphere Expeditions and other NGOs, the reefs in this area are thriving and an overall increase of 50 per cent was recorded in 2010. The report further said, “The results clearly show that the North of Musandam, has arguably the best reefs of the region, is a unique area of natural beauty as well as commercial importance, not just for fishermen, but also in terms of tourism.” Dr Matthias Hammer, executive director, Biosphere Expeditions, said, “ We have worked on Arabian leopards in Dhofar and are working on coral reefs in Musandam with the aim of declaring it a marine protected area.