preprints.org > biology > other > doi: 10.20944/preprints201801.0259.v1

Preprint Article Version 1 This version is not peer-reviewed

Version 1 : Received: 23 January 2018 / Approved: 26 January 2018 / Online: 26 January 2018 (16:27:11 CET)

Significant changes have occurred at Arabian Gulf Coast of Saudi Arabia over the last three decades. The area of mangrove was reduced by about 55%. Thus the economic, social, and environmental value of mangroves must be assessed over short -to long-term scales and employ these assessments for the awareness rising at local communities. This study provides a preliminary assessment of the risks on mangrove vegetation; it will provide database to mitigate the tremendous pressures due to coastal development and urban activities. The effects of human development on the mangrove plant cover in Eastern Region of KSA were recognised, during 2013 to 2016. The mean variations of physio-chemical characteristics in water and sediment were recorded. With regard to water analyses including; nitrogen, phosphorus, TSS, TDS, BOD, and turbidity were evaluated. On the other hand, for sediment: TDS, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphate and total organic carbon were assessed. Moreover, the growth parameters: plant height, and size index, of Avicennia marina were recorded and estimated. It is concluded that human impact and urban developments have exerted drastic effects on the coastal ecosystems and its environments.

Mangrove, Avicennia marina, Size Index, Sediment, Urban Development, Human Impacts.