What’s at Stake? Species Edition
PART III: Marine Species in Abu Dhabi
ON THE BRINK
The numbers of sharks are dwindling because of hunting. To protect these and other species, the government of the UAE has put in laws banning..
shark hunting from January to the end of April. The law also makes it impermissible to hunt sea turtles, whales, sea cows, and other mammals.
Saving the sea cow
The dugong or sea cow is the only herbivorous marine mammal. In Abu Dhabi, it is found in the shallow waters around the islands of Murawah and Bu Tinah, where there is an extensive bed of seagrass. It is a vulnerable species and is protected under the UAE federal law. In 1999 a dugong conservation programme was launched to learn more about the species and work towards its conservation.
Threats to marine life from climate change
Seas and oceans absorb about 25 % of CO2 in the atmosphere. The water absorbs this gas to create carbonic acid. As the amount of carbon in the atmosphere rises, the seas and oceans become more acidic, making it difficult for marine organisms to survive.
Did You Know?
Different species of sharks, including the whale shark, tiger shark, white cheek shark, and blacktip shark, are frequent visitors to the UAE.
