According to the Saudi Press Agency, authorities revealed on Sunday that more than 20 ‘blue holes‘ have been discovered on the southern coast of the Red Sea.
Blue holes are deep underwater craters with a unique blue color and distinctive features that form near coastlines as a result of processes such as limestone erosion or cave-in.
These structures are important for biodiversity and attract marine researchers. Divers are also attracted to them due to their beauty.
Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Abdul Rahman Al-Fazli announced this important discovery in the presence of participants including many local and international experts in the workshop titled ‘Blue Holes in Saudi Arabia‘ organized by the National Center for Wildlife Development. What did
Dr Muhammad Bin Ali Qurban, Chief Executive Officer of the National Center for Wildlife Development, said: ‘The workshop highlighted the blue holes, one of the wonders of the ocean, which harbor mysteries and hide their secrets. .
‘The workshop revealed to us the journey, the biodiversity and the unique geological formations.’
He further said, ‘We are working with our colleagues at the Shah Abdullah University of Science and Technology to research and study the biodiversity in Saudi waters, the threats and threats to these important environments.’
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Mohammed bin Ali Qurban said that the protection and study of the environment is in line with the Saudi Green Initiatives, which aim to increase the rate of protected areas to 30 percent of the country’s landscape by 2030.
Also to encourage efforts to assess and restore Saudi Arabia’s marine environment.
He stressed that the discovery of blue holes is more important than its obvious environmental and scientific research opportunities and benefits as it can help make Saudi Arabia an international tourist destination that boosts the local economy. will get
Last year, the National Center for Wildlife Development launched a major survey of the Red Sea and its ecosystems, studying their biology and ecological characteristics for the first time.
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#blue #holes #discovered #Red #Sea #Saudi #officials
**Interview with Dr. Muhammad Bin Ali Qurban, CEO of the National Center for Wildlife Development**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Qurban. First off, can you tell us more about the recent discovery of over 20 blue holes along the southern coast of the Red Sea?
**Dr. Qurban:** Thank you for having me. The discovery of these blue holes is indeed significant. Each of these underwater formations is unique and plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem, offering insights into biodiversity and geologically significant processes. They are not only beautiful but also vital for marine life, acting as habitats for various species.
**Interviewer:** What makes blue holes particularly interesting for researchers and divers?
**Dr. Qurban:** Blue holes are fascinating due to their distinct color and formation. They contribute to biodiversity by offering a variety of niches for marine organisms. For researchers, they provide opportunities to study underwater ecosystems that are less disturbed by human activities. For divers, the allure lies in their mesmerizing beauty and the thrill of exploring these underwater caverns.
**Interviewer:** We’ve heard that diving in blue holes can be dangerous, particularly due to factors such as nitrogen narcosis. How can divers stay safe?
**Dr. Qurban:** Safety is paramount when diving in these environments. Divers should adhere to safety protocols, including proper training and understanding of the risks associated with deep dives. Nitrogen narcosis, which can occur at depths greater than 30 meters, is a serious concern. It’s essential for divers to monitor their depth, stay within their limits, and ideally dive with experienced partners.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned biodiversity earlier. What specific marine life can we expect to find in these blue holes?
**Dr. Qurban:** The blue holes can host a wide array of marine species. Divers may encounter everything from colorful coral reefs to various fish species, and even larger marine animals. The structure of the blue holes creates a diverse habitat where different life forms thrive, making it an exciting place for marine biologists to study.
**Interviewer:** The recent workshop on blue holes organized by the National Center for Wildlife Development sounds like it was a success. What were some key takeaways from that event?
**Dr. Qurban:** The workshop brought together local and international experts to discuss the significance of blue holes and their conservation. One key takeaway was the urgent need for collaborative efforts in research and preservation. We must protect these underwater treasures to ensure they continue to thrive for future generations and provide invaluable insights into marine science.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Qurban, for your insights today. It’s clear that blue holes hold not only beauty and biodiversity but also vital information for scientists and diving enthusiasts alike.
**Dr. Qurban:** Thank you for having me. I hope this sparks interest in exploring and protecting our marine resources.