Impact of oil pollution and increased sea surface temperatures on marine ecosystems and biota in the Gulf

摘要: Preventing oil pollution is considered the major environmental challenge in Gulf region. The effects of petroleum on key ecosystems and biota are reviewed, mainly based research activities following 1991 War spill. While oiling birds were severe, with species losing up to an estimated 50% their populations oiled areas, breeding success other severely reduced for several years spill, sea turtles marine mammals minor. Planktonic fish eggs larvae at or near water surface killed by slicks, resulting lower levels recruitment 1992 1993. By 1994, population densities back pre-war levels. Subtidal biotopes, including coral reefs, escaped contamination showed no adverse impacts from They were, however, effected three bleaching events 1996, 1998 2002, most inshore shallow offshore corals dying hardly any signs recovery until 2007. Thus far has been perceived as greatest single threat wildlife. However, it argued this chapter that long-term climate change more severe. ecological socio-economic consequences triggered development a Regional Action Plan Coral Reef Conservation, which takes integrated remediation approach, addressing multiple stressors. It suggested plan be embedded broader strategy regional management, conducting Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis developing Strategic Programme Gulf. There urgent need develop national wildlife response plans throughout