Oman plans management for Arabian Sea humpback whales
Muscat – Environment Authority (EA) launched a regional workshop titled 'Managing the Protection and Conservation of Arabian Sea Humpback Whales' on Tuesday in collaboration with Environment Society of Oman.
The three-day event aims to enhance conservation efforts for one of the world's most endangered whale populations.
Held with participation of international experts, researchers, and representatives from public and private sector entities, besides civil society organisations, the workshop is focused on developing a comprehensive management framework to protect the Arabian Sea humpback whale.
Believed to number fewer than 100 individuals, the species is primarily found in waters off Oman, especially in the Gulf of Masirah. Key discussions during the workshop include the most pressing threats to the species, such as shipping traffic, oil and gas exploration, and fishing activities.
Participants will also explore the latest scientific research from Oman and India, and evaluate practical steps for implementing a joint conservation management plan. The workshop will include a review of the plan's structure, with emphasis on coordinated actions between countries bordering the Arabian Sea.
EA presented updates from the Marine Mammal Species Survey Project in Musandam, covering the period 2023 to 2025, at the workshop. The survey is part of broader efforts to enhance regional cooperation in marine conservation.
A key part of the workshop is a proposal to establish a non-binding cooperation agreement between Oman and India to protect the Arabian Sea humpback whale. Additionally, a draft regional management plan will be prepared and a joint coordination committee will be formed comprising international partners from the International Whaling Commission.
The Arabian Sea humpback whale has been under scientific observation in Oman since 2000. In 2008, the species was added to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species due to its critically low population and isolated habitat.
This week's workshop is expected to play a pivotal role in aligning regional conservation strategies and ensuring the long-term survival of this unique marine species.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Times of Oman
2 days ago
- Times of Oman
Environmental initiative to preserve wild trees in Dhofar
Muscat: In the enchanting mountains of the Dhofar Governorate, more than 5,000 wild trees , Arabian Dhofari Buttontree and wild fig trees were pruned during the years 2023 and 2024, as part of a qualitative initiative to protect them and enhance their growth, and The field results showed a significant improvement in tree health and growth. The Environment Authority has introduced a groundbreaking initiative focused on pruning wild trees in the mountains of Dhofar Governorate. This project aims to enhance the health of key native species, including the Arabian Dhofari Buttontree (Anogeissus Dhofaric)and wild fig trees (Ficus Acacia). By protecting these trees from environmental threats and pests, the initiative supports Oman's Vision 2040 for ecological sustainability. Scheduled to take place annually in May and June—just before the autumn season—the program has already demonstrated promising results. Field surveys have observed noticeable growth in new branches and overall improvements in tree health. Pruning statistics indicate steady progress: - 2023: 2,032 trees pruned - 2024: 3,180 trees pruned - 2025: 3,000 trees targeted for pruning The effort spans multiple areas, including Salalah, Taqah, Mirbat, Rakhyut, and Dhalkut. Experts predict that this focused approach will contribute significantly to preserving Dhofar's natural environment and ensuring sustainable practices for future generations.
Times of Oman
4 days ago
- Times of Oman
Dimaniyat Islands sees major coral reef cleanup
Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman's Environment Authority (EA) recently conducted its first coral reef cleaning campaign of 2025 in the Dimaniyat Islands Nature Reserve, located in South Al Batinah. The Environment Authority said: 'The Authority has launched the first coral reef cleaning campaign in the Dimaniyat Islands Nature Reserve for 2025 in South Al Batinah.' 'As part of this effort, divers cleared 140 kg of nets and iron debris from Lumiyya Island, reinforcing their commitment to marine conservation and the protection of natural habitats,' EA added.
Muscat Daily
6 days ago
- Muscat Daily
Oman plans management for Arabian Sea humpback whales
Muscat – Environment Authority (EA) launched a regional workshop titled 'Managing the Protection and Conservation of Arabian Sea Humpback Whales' on Tuesday in collaboration with Environment Society of Oman. The three-day event aims to enhance conservation efforts for one of the world's most endangered whale populations. Held with participation of international experts, researchers, and representatives from public and private sector entities, besides civil society organisations, the workshop is focused on developing a comprehensive management framework to protect the Arabian Sea humpback whale. Believed to number fewer than 100 individuals, the species is primarily found in waters off Oman, especially in the Gulf of Masirah. Key discussions during the workshop include the most pressing threats to the species, such as shipping traffic, oil and gas exploration, and fishing activities. Participants will also explore the latest scientific research from Oman and India, and evaluate practical steps for implementing a joint conservation management plan. The workshop will include a review of the plan's structure, with emphasis on coordinated actions between countries bordering the Arabian Sea. EA presented updates from the Marine Mammal Species Survey Project in Musandam, covering the period 2023 to 2025, at the workshop. The survey is part of broader efforts to enhance regional cooperation in marine conservation. A key part of the workshop is a proposal to establish a non-binding cooperation agreement between Oman and India to protect the Arabian Sea humpback whale. Additionally, a draft regional management plan will be prepared and a joint coordination committee will be formed comprising international partners from the International Whaling Commission. The Arabian Sea humpback whale has been under scientific observation in Oman since 2000. In 2008, the species was added to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species due to its critically low population and isolated habitat. This week's workshop is expected to play a pivotal role in aligning regional conservation strategies and ensuring the long-term survival of this unique marine species.
