Conservation Ecology

Conservation Ecology

The Conservation Ecology Research focuses on training through research programmes on ecological issues and the application of science to conservation in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. SENS serves the benefits from national and international collaboration and interaction with industry. In addition to traditional scientific output in the form of papers and students, SENS also provides a platform for the effective development and dispersion of new information. SENS have long time research in conservation ecology, especially for endangered species such as marine turtles, mammals and sharks.

Marine Mammals and Turtles

SENS conducts research on marine mammals and turtles in Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, with special focus on the Egypt, Kuwait and Qatar. Our major field research is conducted through types of Research Vessel Surveys: Abundance and Ecosystem Assessment Surveys, and Process (question-based) Surveys. We also conduct shore-based surveys and research from small boats. Our laboratory-based research focuses on ecology, behavior and photo ID. The Research focuses on Sea Cow (Dugong) and Dolphins (Spinner Dolphin).

The research feeding into our assessment science has four components:

Abundance estimation and monitoring of abundance trends,
Identification of units to conserve,
Quantifying life history, condition, and health, and
Understanding ecosystem state (structure and function).

Sharks

Many marine experts of SENS believe that sharks are vital in maintaining marine biodiversity and concern has been raised that some species may become extinct before their ecological role is fully understood. SENS focus from long times in research on sharks at the Red Sea, especially endangered species such as whale sharks. See Shark Project Page for more informations.