The Red Sea and Gulf of Aden is a globally significant marine ecosystem and are renowned for their diversity of ecosystems, habitats and species, the numbers of endemic species, and their biogeographic significance. A consequence of the diversity of habitats in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden is the great species richness of marine flora and fauna. The Red Sea is one of the most important repositories of marine biodiversity on a global scale.
The global conservation values of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden include: the diversity of coral reef habitats in the central Red Sea of Saudi Arabia and Sudan; its distinct zoogeography and number of endemic species; the unique coral reefs around the Sinai; the atoll-like formation of Sanganeb Atoll in Sudan; extensive stands of mangroves and populations of dugong and turtle in the southern Red Sea; the unique biodiversity of the Socotra Archipelago; and, the extensive stocks of commercial fishes and high rate of primary and secondary production in the Gulf of Aden.
More than 300 reef-building corals, more than 1300 fish species and hundreds of marine invertebrates and marine mammals call the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden their home. Many are key resources for nearby coastal communities.
However, rapid development and growing human usage threaten the sustainability of current uses and the conservation values. In several countries there has been the development of petroleum-based economies that require sea transport and port facilities for petroleum exports. The growth of international dive tourism has caused destruction of coral reefs in heavily visited reefs. General population growth in the coastal zone has led to localized habitat destruction and modification and the release of pollutants. Stocks of invertebrates, fishes, and sharks (and their associated ecosystems) are affected by over-fishing. The ability of many countries in the region to address issues will be constrained by limitations in both technical expertise and the required experience in management. Despite the enormous economic growth that has occurred in some countries, many coastal communities continue to rely for their livelihood on small-scale usage of marine resources, especially fisheries. The social and economic structure of these communities is threatened by the accumulated impacts occurring within the marine and coastal environments
This program focuses on creating and effectively managing marine biodiversity areas and establishing and promoting sustainable uses. By addressing direct and indirect threats to coastal and marine biodiversity, PERSGA Marine Biodiversity program works to ensure a sustainable future where nature and people can thrive.