The Hermatypic Scleractinian (Hard) Coral Fauna of the Gulf

摘要: The harsh climate of the Gulf puts severe constraints on coral survival and, therewith, biodiversity by restricting number species that can survive in conditions. Despite this and despite being at western high-latitude edge Indo-Pacific reef distribution, Gulf’s fauna is surprisingly rich. Within region, richest has been recorded from Saudi Arabia, around islands Jana Karan (50 species, Basson et al. 1977). Fadlallah (1993) subsequently 23 19 specific sample sites these two suggested richness may actually be lower than (1977). This also supported data Vogt (1996). UAE presently second-richest documented fauna, with 34 scleractinian (Riegl 1999). More comprehensive studies other areas region would likely reveal a quite homogeneous little diversity gradient across proper. Iranian rich due to water circulation pattern better environmental conditions northern Gulf. Due counter clock wise Gulf, part coastline temperature, salinity, aragonite saturation, besides greater depth (see Chap. 2). results increasing towards Straits Hormuz. In general, decreases east west north south. seen octocorals (Samimi-Namin van Ofwegen 2009) same trend exist for hard corals (Samimi-Namin, unpublished data). It still unclear where main boundaries are located therefore further necessary fully