Khasab: The fourth phase of the marine mammal survey project commenced in the Wilayat of Khasab, Musandam Governorate, on Tuesday.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Environment Authority in collaboration with relevant governmental departments, is set to continue until the 31st of October, 2024.
The primary objective of this project is to establish a comprehensive database of marine mammals at the National Nature Park in Musandam, which includes the compilation of a distribution chart for various species within the reserve.
Engineer Aida bint Khalaf Al Jabriya, the head of the project team from the Environment Authority, stated, "This project is a part of the broader survey and monitoring programs included in the Musandam National Park Nature Reserve. It encompasses a variety of tasks, including the monitoring of marine mammals."
She further elaborated, "We are in search of marine mammal sightings, noting their location, date, time, species, group size, and behavior. Photographs are taken using high-quality cameras, drones, and GoPro cameras. We also record the distance traveled, direction, depth, and wind speed, along with the sounds of marine mammals, utilizing advanced equipment and technologies. Additionally, specialized devices have been developed to measure physical factors and detect depths."
Hamad bin Salem Al-Hussaini, the Environmental Systems Technician at the General Directorate of Nature Conservation, highlighted, "The Sultanate of Oman boasts a diverse array of marine mammals, attributed to its geographical position overlooking three seas: the Arabian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and the Arabian Sea. Marine mammals play a crucial role in maintaining the health of the marine environment's ecosystems."
He further explained, "The Environment Authority is dedicated to leveraging all the necessary capabilities and efforts to study and analyze data that will aid in understanding the presence and reproduction of marine mammals, thereby protecting them from potential threats."
He concluded, "The field survey of marine mammals extends beyond the project team, with significant participation from the governorate's fishermen. They contribute by documenting marine mammals with photographs, videos, and locations, as the preliminary stages of the project have revealed the monitoring of large and diverse numbers of marine mammals across various locations."