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JOHN M A N K O N WONG
  • VILLA 38 MAISONS BLANCHES COMP
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Understanding the poor conservation status of the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin and the need to implement previous IWC recommendations, the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin Conservation Network (HuDoNET) was established, modelled on the... more
Understanding the poor conservation status of the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin and the need to implement previous IWC recommendations, the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin Conservation Network (HuDoNET) was established, modelled on the successful initiatives of the Conservation Consortium of the Atlantic humpback dolphin (CCAHD) and the South African SouSA Consortium. The aim of HuDoNET is to galvinise action to improve the conservation status of Indian Ocean humpback dolphins throughout its range by promoting conservation research and action, foster collaboration and boosting resources and capacity among stakeholders in all range states.
The Arabian Sea Whale Network (ASWN) is an informal collaboration of researchers and conservation bodies interested in the conservation of whale populations throughout the Northern Indian Ocean. The group was formed in 2015, in part, to... more
The Arabian Sea Whale Network (ASWN) is an informal collaboration of researchers and conservation bodies interested in the conservation of whale populations throughout the Northern Indian Ocean. The group was formed in 2015, in part, to help advance a regional Conservation Management Plan for the Endangered Arabian Sea humpback whale (ASHW) (Megaptera novaeangliae), first recommended by the IWC SC in 2010. The ASHW acts as the Network’s flagship species, but members collaborate on many aspects of cetacean research and conservation. This progress report includes updates on collaborative activities undertaken between May 2023 and April 2024, as well as updates on project or national level activities undertaken by partners in the region. At a regional level, thanks to modest funding to support part-time coordination and communication activities, the ASWN has been able to meet virtually, collaborate to achieve an extension of the Convention on Migratory Species’(CMS) Concerted Action for ASHW, expand its membership to include more range-country scientists, revive the ASWN website, and launch accounts on three social media platforms. At project and national levels, members have made significant strides in documenting cetacean sightings and strandings through dedicated research and citizen science networks and increasing the in-country capacity for cetacean research and conservation management.
The ecological state of the Persian or Arabian Gulf (hereafter ‘Gulf') is in sharp decline. Calls for comprehensive ecosystem-based management approaches and transboundary conservation have gone largely unanswered, despite mounting... more
The ecological state of the Persian or Arabian Gulf (hereafter ‘Gulf') is in sharp decline. Calls for comprehensive ecosystem-based management approaches and transboundary conservation have gone largely unanswered, despite mounting marine threats made worse by climate change. The region's long-standing political tensions add additional complexity, especially now as some Gulf countries will soon adopt ambitious goals to protect their marine environments as part of new global environmental commitments. The recent interest in global commitments comes at a time when diplomatic relations among all Gulf countries are improving. There is a window of opportunity for Gulf countries to meet global marine biodiversity conservation commitments, but only if scientists engage in peer-to-peer diplomacy to build trust, share knowledge and strategize marine conservation options across boundaries. The Gulf region needs more ocean diplomacy and coordination; just as critically, it needs actors...
On 1st October 2023, a noteworthy observation of a brown spotted seal was documented at the Al Shaheen oil platform, located approximately 90 km northeast offshore from the northern coast of Qatar. The sighting, made at 1:25 p.m.,... more
On 1st October 2023, a noteworthy observation of a brown spotted seal was documented at the Al Shaheen oil platform, located approximately 90 km northeast offshore from the northern coast of Qatar. The sighting, made at 1:25 p.m., involved the observation of an adult male seal, estimated to be around 160 cm in length, climbing onto a tubular cross beam with a diameter of 1m. Four photographs of the seal were captured and subsequently sent to the Ministry of Environment for identification. The distinct brown patches and spot pattern exhibited by the seal strongly resemble the characteristics of an adult male Caspian seal (Pusa caspica). This observation is particularly significant given the geographical distance from the Caspian Sea, where the nearest population of Caspian seals resides. This paper presents the details of the sighting, discusses the potential origins of Caspian Seals (Pusa caspica) in the Arabian Gulf and implications for marine ecology in the Arabian Gulf, and underscores the importance of further research on the dispersal and habitat preferences of Caspian seals in non-native regions.
The ecological status of the Arabian-Persian Gulf (Gulf) is in sharp decline and under threat from an increase in population, coastal and offshore development, climate change, and complicated regional political relationships. The Gulf... more
The ecological status of the Arabian-Persian Gulf (Gulf) is in sharp decline and under threat from an increase in population, coastal and offshore development, climate change, and complicated regional political relationships. The Gulf region needs more ocean diplomacy and coordination among scientists in the region. We propose scientist-led diplomacy in the short term and lines of research, co-production, and cultural and scientific knowledge exchange to increase trust and cross-boundary marine biodiversity joint management for the peace of the region and effective improvement of the marine environment.
Research Interests:
Tools use in marine conservation a process to achieve Marine biodiversity sustainability are properly managed marine protected areas by law or other effective means. It is important to motive all stakeholders has an interest in natural... more
Tools  use in marine conservation a process to achieve Marine biodiversity sustainability are properly managed marine protected areas by law or other effective means. It is important to motive all stakeholders has an interest in natural marine resources.Support from public, industries, educators and academia as well as multidisciplinary professionals to participate in  marine and terrestrial conservation ensure effective protection of marine life and environment. It is essential to protect all important coastal and offshore habitats,feeding and breeding sites as well as migratory routes of migratory species to ensure survival of marine life..
Official document to support the proposed designation of Al Shaleen as a marine protected area for whale sharks and other marine life in the area.
Research Interests:
For whale shark conservation local governments need to identify and protect important areas such as feeding grounds, breeding waters and migratory routes. This short paper is a proposal to the Qatar government for the approval of whale... more
For whale shark conservation local governments need to identify and protect important areas such as feeding grounds, breeding waters and migratory routes. This short paper is a proposal to the Qatar government for the approval of whale shark protected area in north east offshore water of Qatar.
Research Interests:
This is an update on the distribution of whale sharks in Pakistan's water. Our team interviews fishermen along the Arabian Sea coastal villages and ports of Pakistan as well as fishery officers and whale shark researchers in the summer of... more
This is an update on the distribution of whale sharks in Pakistan's water.
Our team interviews fishermen along the Arabian Sea coastal villages and ports of Pakistan as well as fishery officers and whale shark researchers in the summer of 2022. Whale sharks of different sizes distribute at different sites.
This was a joint survey by Hong Kong and China cetacean researchers on Indo-pacific humpback dolphin in east China sea. There is still dolphins distribute around the island city of Xiamen on the Fujian shore. Despite the heavy marine... more
This was a joint survey by Hong Kong and China cetacean researchers on Indo-pacific humpback dolphin in east China sea. There is still dolphins distribute around the island city of Xiamen on the Fujian shore. Despite the heavy marine traffic around the island there is still a thieving population of Sousa chinensis locally known as Chinese white dolphin. A dolphin watching ecotourism has start in the area.
Introduction of Dugongs into Fuwairit Qatar 5 July a baby dugong was found stranded on Khor Al Adiad the diver informed the ministry. It was taken to Fuwairit placed into a pool of the sea turtle hatchery. It was 110cm long and weigh... more
Introduction of Dugongs into Fuwairit Qatar 5 July a baby dugong was found stranded on Khor Al Adiad the diver informed the ministry. It was taken to Fuwairit placed into a pool of the sea turtle hatchery. It was 110cm long and weigh 28kg. It was given camel milk for fast rehydration and improved immune system. I request the animal to be feed every day with at least 1000 to 1500 ml a day. I will feed the morning. Dr Mohamed will arrange to feed afternoon and evening meal. I also request Ocean to be weighed regularly to monitor its state of health. Because of insufficient facility and staff Ocean had only been weigh on 8 th and 23rd. I requested daily record of milk intake morning, afternoon and evening to be recorded and provided to me. But it was only available on 29 th.
21st morning a dead dugong was reported and was taken back to Fuwairit to take biometrics and later transferred to a freeze in another center. 23 rd. another baby dugong was taken into the hatchery and put into the same pool with Ocean. This was later name Oscar a male 120cm long weigh 35kg. He readily accepts cow milk 800ml to 1000ml in the morning sessions. 27 th a bigger baby dugong was taken to the hatchery in the evening, a 130cm female weigh around 45kg named Oliva. She refuses to be feed by bottle or gastric tube. She was too powerful could not be kept still to be fed. Daily management of baby dugongs. Ocean the first dugong was to be fed in the morning 500 ml to Ocean then afternoon and evening about 500ml each session. Total milk requirement at least 1500ml. This was based on daily food intake of 5-8% body weight for marine.
The coral island was close to the border between China and Vietnam it was closed to public until 2008 when the local government decide to open to tourism fishery authority invite the author and his team to carry out survey on coral around... more
The coral island was close to the border between China and Vietnam it was closed to public until 2008 when the local government decide to open to tourism fishery authority invite the author and his team to carry out survey on coral around the coastal shallow water. To identify high ecological sites for protection. It was found that the area was covered with rich variety of coral species. The report was submitted to the environmental protection agency in central government.
This is the first official study of cetaceans in Qatar. The author reviewed stranding records and sighting reports of whales and dolphins in Qatar water. There are 10 marine mammals found in Qatar coastal water. From Humpback whale,... more
This is the first official study of cetaceans in Qatar. The author reviewed stranding records and sighting reports of whales and dolphins in Qatar water. There are 10 marine mammals found in Qatar coastal water. From Humpback whale, Bryde's whale to Humpback dolphins and Finless porpoise. Cetacean in Qatar is still not much studied, much research is needed for conservation of marine mammals
The North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica) is among the most endangered of all great whales, having been subject to intensivecommercial whaling in the 19th century. All available 20th century records of this species in the North... more
The North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica) is among the most endangered of all great whales, having been subject to intensivecommercial whaling in the 19th century. All available 20th century records of this species in the North Pacific were reviewed. There hasbeen a total of 1,965 recorded sightings since 1900; of these, 988 came from the western North Pacific, 693 from the eastern North Pacificand 284 had no location specified. Thirteen strandings (all but one from the western North Pacific) were recorded. Known catches forcommercial or scientific purposes totalled 742 (331 in the western North Pacific, 411 in the eastern North Pacific). Most of the reportedSoviet ‘sightings’ in the eastern North Pacific were actually catches, as may be the case for Soviet sightings in the Okhotsk Sea. In addition,the impact of known Soviet illegal catches in the Okhotsk Sea may be reflected in an apparent decline in sightings after the 1960s (althoughthis may be partly explained by low ob...
The North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica) is among the most endangered of all great whales, having been subject to intensive commercial whaling in the 19 th century. All available 20 th century records of this species in the... more
The North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica) is among the most endangered of all great whales, having been subject to intensive commercial whaling in the 19 th century. All available 20 th century records of this species in the North Pacific were reviewed. There has been a total of 1,965 recorded sightings since 1900; of these, 988 came from the western North Pacific, 693 from the eastern North Pacific and 284 had no location specified. Thirteen strandings (all but one from the western North Pacific) were recorded. Known catches for commercial or scientific purposes totalled 742 (331 in the western North Pacific, 411 in the eastern North Pacific). Most of the reported Soviet 'sightings' in the eastern North Pacific were actually catches, as may be the case for Soviet sightings in the Okhotsk Sea. In addition, the impact of known Soviet illegal catches in the Okhotsk Sea may be reflected in an apparent decline in sightings after the 1960s (although this may be partly explained by low observer effort). Overall, the data support the hypothesis that at least two stocks of right whales exist in the North Pacific. Any recovery in the western North Pacific population was compromised by the Soviet catches in the Okhotsk region, although recent sightings suggest that this population is still large enough to sustain reproduction. By contrast, Soviet catches in the now-smaller eastern North Pacific population have severely reduced its prospects for recovery. Although the prognosis for this population is poor, a long-term monitoring programme is required to better understand its conservation status and to determine whether it may be affected by human-related problems that would require mitigation.
Marine scientists from the Ministry of Environment & Climate Change (MoECC) carried out a study on aggregation of whale sharks in the north east offshore on
This conference presentation at the International Symposium on Cetacean  2023 at City University Hong Kong introduces the list and distribution of cetaceans, as well as their conservation status in Qatar.
Endangered migratory species of the Persian/Arabian Gulf region are under threat from increasing marine traffic activities, fishing activities, and coastal and offshore development. There is a need for coordinated conservation actions... more
Endangered migratory species of the Persian/Arabian Gulf region are under threat from increasing marine traffic activities, fishing activities, and coastal and offshore development. There is a need for coordinated conservation actions from all countries in the Gulf region for the effective protection of all migratory megafauna, as illustrated in this recent presentation at the 2024 UN Ocean Decade Conference in Barcelona.
Global warming might be the cause of the extended summer fish egg-feeding season for the whale sharks in Qatar. This year 2023 mackerel extended spawning into October because of higher seawater temperatures. Aggregation of whale shark... more
Global warming might be the cause of the extended summer fish egg-feeding season for the whale sharks in Qatar. This year 2023 mackerel extended spawning into October because of higher seawater temperatures. Aggregation of whale shark were recorded throughout September. This is in contrast to the previous year, with no aggregation after the end of August. There was a first record of over 50 sharks of three different species feeding on sardines in the same whale shark feeding area. 
Last year in 2022 July there were 4 newborn dugongs stranded when the air temperature was above 44*C. This was the highest record of neonate dugong strandings in Qatar and the region. In the past only one stranding record a year. But 4 strandings in a month is unusual. Dugongs were rehydrated and treated for any wounds then those that survived were released back to the sea.
There was the first report of a seal in the Arabian Gulf. It closely resembles a Caspian Seal. The frequent mass die-off in recent years of Caspian seals in the Caspian Sea. Many international conservations express concern and demand actions to save the seals. This might induce Iranians and other conservationists to transfer surviving seals to the Arabian Gulf in an attempt to some of the remaining seals. The location where the seal was very close to Qatar and Iranian borders.
Increased temperature tends to result in more female sea turtles hatched from eggs. High water temperatures already cause the depletion of coral reefs in the shallow coastal water of Qatar. Increased wave action removed sand from a former sandy beach to bare rock on the northeast shore of Qatar in just 6 months in 2022.
Five species of sea turtles have been reported, but only the hawksbill next on Qatar beaches, and young green turtles are found in Qatar feeding on seagrass beds. Although research on sea turtles started in 2001. only two of the coastal... more
Five species of sea turtles have been reported, but only the hawksbill next on Qatar beaches, and young green turtles are found in Qatar feeding on seagrass beds. Although research on sea turtles started in 2001. only two of the coastal nesting beaches are protected. More conservation efforts should be applied to protect Qatar sea turtles.
whale shark conservation and monitoring in the Al Shaheen Area by government scientists to study population trends and the health of individual sharks. recording body scars and the number of sharks in the area and estimating the body size... more
whale shark conservation and monitoring in the Al Shaheen Area by government scientists to study population trends and the health of individual sharks. recording body scars and the number of sharks in the area and estimating the body size of the sharks. Result show there are more males than females, majority of the sharks are immature young sharks.
A brief introduction to the conservation of Dugong in Qatar. Seagrass distribution and dugong distribution were identified as potential marine protected areas. Strandings of dead and live dugongs were recorded since 2020. Life neonate... more
A brief introduction to the conservation of Dugong in Qatar. Seagrass distribution and dugong distribution were identified as potential marine protected areas. Strandings of dead and live dugongs were recorded since 2020. Life neonate dugongs were rescued rehydrated and after treatment of wounds were released back to the sea. Qatar government's conservation action plan includes setting up marine protected areas for dugongs and seagrass.
China set up the first Chinese Arctic polar research station the Yellow Polar Research Station at Svalbard in 2004. I visited that area in 2006 and carry out a study of polar animals and the history of whaling in that area. The rich... more
China set up the first Chinese Arctic polar research station the Yellow  Polar Research Station at Svalbard in 2004. I visited that area in 2006 and carry out a study of polar animals and the history of whaling in that area.
The rich marine life is comparable to that of the North West Pacific. Marine mammals migrate between Arctic Circle and the South China Sea. This was a presentation at the Polar Scientific Research meeting organized by jointly by China Ocean University, Xiamen University, Macau University, and the Polar Research Institute of Hong Kong. This presentation was a brief introduction to marine mammals, whales, and seals found in Chinese coastal water.
Guangdong is a province in South China. Once it includes Hong Kong, Macau, and Hainan Island. The title of this can be South China coastal whales. This paper reviews historical records, and stranding records, and visits whale temples and... more
Guangdong is a province in South China. Once it includes Hong Kong, Macau, and Hainan Island. The title of this can be South China coastal whales. This paper reviews historical records, and stranding records, and visits whale temples and museums to identify species of cetaceans in the coastal cities in south China. The result indicated that at least 20 species of cetaceans use South China water. Including 10 species of whales: Gray, Fin, Humpback, Minke, Brydes, Sperm, Pygmy sperm, Baird's Beaked, Pilot, and False killer whales. 10 species of dolphins: Common, Risso's, Bottlenose, Rough-tooth, Spinner, Striped, Fraser's, Spotted, Chinese white, dolphins, and finless porpoise. Apart from cetaceans, there are also dugongs. There is a sufficient cetacean resource to develop whale and dolphin watching on south China's coastal water.
This was the Qatar National Voluntary commitment submitted to the UN Ocean Conference in July 2022. It stated that Qatar is committed to implementing Qatar National Vision as well as the UN Ocean Decade and CDB 30 x 30, which was later... more
This was the Qatar  National Voluntary commitment submitted to the UN  Ocean Conference in July 2022. It stated that Qatar is committed to implementing Qatar National Vision as well as the UN Ocean Decade and CDB 30 x 30, which was later adopted by UN CBD CoP15 at the Montreal conference. Qatar should be one of the nations able to achieve protection of 30% of its land and sea natural environment ahead of the 2030 target. 24% of land is already designated and managed as nature reserves, we are in the process of designating 30% of our marine water as protected areas.
Research Interests:
Management ,conservation and restoration of marine coastal ecosystems. The Qatar way. The first step of marine resource management is to know the marine resource species, ecosystem and their distribution. Baseline eco-system study and... more
Management ,conservation and restoration of marine coastal ecosystems. The Qatar way. The first step of marine resource management is to know the marine resource species, ecosystem and their distribution. Baseline eco-system study and sensitivity mapping is essential to obtain basic information on national marine resource and to identify potential marine protected Areas. Then designation of MPA through legal and administrative procedure to ensure the MPAs are properly managed by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change with adequate experienced staff with appropriate qualification and knowledge and management skills. Continuous in post training and and monitoring of the marine environment and sufficient assessment of management tools and results are important for successful Marine biodiversity conservation.
Green turtle has been known to nest in offshore lamma island south of Hong Kong. This paper was presented at the APEC Sea turtle international symposium in Taiwan 1997. I introduce the highly endangered sea turtle in Hong Kong. The... more
Green turtle has been known to nest in offshore lamma island south of Hong Kong. This paper was presented at the APEC Sea turtle international symposium in Taiwan 1997. I introduce the highly endangered sea turtle in Hong Kong. The numbers of nesting female turtle and nexting beaches has greatly decreased because if coastal development and increase maribe traffic. Too much boats in the bay of of turtle nesting beach. Outlook for future of Hong Kong sea turtle in not good. Environmental protection efforts cannot catchup with the rapid development rate of Hong Kong. Even twenty years after this paper was published  Hong Kong NGO still trying to convince the local government to give full protection of the southern water of Hong Kong in addition to seasonal protection of the nesting beach.
An introduction of Qatar government action to implement Qatar National Vision 2030 and UN CBD 30x30 Ocean Decade. This talk and paper illustrate the process of designation of marine protected area through site selection from reviewing of... more
An introduction of Qatar government action to implement Qatar National Vision 2030 and UN CBD 30x30 Ocean Decade. This talk and paper illustrate the process of designation of marine protected area through site selection from reviewing of available scientific data on local marine ecology: EIA reports. species and habitat research projects. Habitat sensitivity maps and Ecological GIS maps. The Qatar way of ambitious marine biodiversity conservation action employing in-house government marine conservationist to identify, designate and manage marine protected areas. It is expected that Qatar will be one of the first nations to meet ahead of UN 30x30 target.
Chinese whales originated from Arctic. Whales and seals that feed in Arctic Oceans near Sakhalin Russian Far East Arctic shores migrate along the Northwest Pacific coastal waters move south pass Korea Peninsula into Boihai and Yellow East... more
Chinese whales originated from Arctic. Whales and seals that feed in Arctic Oceans near Sakhalin Russian Far East Arctic shores migrate along the Northwest Pacific coastal waters move south pass Korea Peninsula into Boihai and Yellow East some Gray and Humpback whales move further south to East China Sea and eventually reach the south China Sea in Guandong water Northeast of Hainan Island. Whale bones collected in coastal temples and museums provide valuable information of whale strand in the area. These include spotted seal, Gray, Humpback, Fin, Sperm, Orca, Minke, and Baird's beaked whale. After breeding season in winter and early spring, these marine mammals return to feed in the rich feeding ground of the high Arctic latitudes. Repeat this north south migration every year.
In UN Conference Doha Chapter, the author shares with other Member State Scientists Qatar way of managing Marine Environment. Applying all available scientific data to identify important ecosystems and habitats as well as endanger... more
In UN Conference Doha Chapter, the author shares with other Member State Scientists Qatar way of managing Marine Environment. Applying all available scientific data to identify important ecosystems and habitats as well as endanger species, designate such sites as protected areas, monitor status if necessary retore the habitats and ecosystems and protect endanger species through active management and law enforcement.
This was a presentation introduce the recent works of government officers in Ministry of Environment and Climate Change on Marine Protected Areas. We review all available scientific information on Qatar marine environment, identify... more
This was a presentation introduce the recent works of government officers in Ministry of Environment and Climate Change on Marine Protected Areas. We review all available scientific information on Qatar marine environment, identify important ecological habitats and sensitive migratory species, draft MPA maps and write up proposal to designate MPA sites. Then according to legal requirement, after consultation with stakeholders and relevant departments we submit the plan for approval from the authority.
Ministry of Environment & Climate Change State of Qatar Qatar is the a peninsula situate in the middle of the Arabian Gulf. It extend 160km from the Arabia coast.There are two currents that run along the northern and southern shore of the... more
Ministry of Environment & Climate Change State of Qatar Qatar is the a peninsula situate in the middle of the Arabian Gulf. It extend 160km from the Arabia coast.There are two currents that run along the northern and southern shore of the Gulf. Many migratory species drift with the Gulf current moving from the Strait of Hormus along the shores of Iranian, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia to Bahrain and Qatar then into UAE water. The Gulf Current deposit sand along the Qatar north east coast. Sea turtles settle to feed and nest in these waters. There are at least 4 species of sea turtles reported in Qatar. Green turtle, hawksbill turtle, olive ridley turtle and the loggerhead turtle. Although green turtle is the most likely to be encounter at sea and more numerous, only the hawksbills nest on Qatar beaches. Other species are uncommon, leatherback turtle are rare. Hawksbills nest along approximately 50 km north east coast from Umm Tais to Ras Laffan , as well as eastern offshore islands sandy beaches. (Qatar Turtle Management Project 2013) A study between 2013-2015 (Pilcher et al 2015) reveal that there are more green turtle than other species at sea at a ratio 7: 3. Qatar is home to a resident population of small juvenile green turtle(<40cm curved carapace length CCL)and transient transient popluation of juvenile hawksbills (<25cm CCL) .There are more male hawksbills than female (4M:1F) , but there are more female green turtle than male (2M:3F). It might reflect the hawksbill nests are hatched at higher temperature than those of green turtle. Qatar hawksbill average number of eggs per nest is 78 (range 46-104) , egg weigh average 28g (28.1-28.8), hatching weigh 13g (10.8-14.4). Hatching success 86%. A study at turtles at Ras Laffan Indusrial City reported 241 nest around the Ras Laffan area in 2002.(Tayab & Quiton 2003) .
Oceans and Seas of our blue planet are central for the survival of humankind by providing goods and services. QULSS 2021 will explore with scientists, students, stakeholders and decision-makers the state of art of marine resources in the... more
Oceans and Seas of our blue planet are central for the survival of humankind by providing goods and services. QULSS 2021 will explore with scientists, students, stakeholders and decision-makers the state of art of marine resources in the region and in Qatar to highlight recent advances in marine conservation and production, aquaculture and marine biotechnologies development, and integrated coastal zone management. A one-day symposium will be held on 3 rd November 2021 at Qatar University, organized by the Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. 15 th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION SYMPOSIUM QULSS 2021 Qatar University Life Sciences Symposium On 3 rd November 2021, QULSS will celebrate its 15 th Year Anniversary.
South China Sea water is rich in marine biodiversity this paper discusses the whales in waters around Guangdong near Hong Kong. Official historic records and recent studies on cetaceans in the area reveal many species of whales had been... more
South China Sea water is rich in marine biodiversity this paper discusses the whales in waters around Guangdong near Hong Kong. Official historic records and recent studies on cetaceans in the area reveal many species of whales had been stranded or sighted off Hong Kong and other coastal cities, Fin, Humpback, Gray, Minke, Brydes, Orca, and Sperm whale and possibly Baird's beak whale.
From Fujian to Hainan Island bones and skeletons of whales and dolphins have been found in coastal temples and even secondary schools and the institute of hydrobiology.
It was Chinese fishermen's tradition to bring any remains of large marine animals they  found from the sea to offer to the goddess of the sea in the temples.
This paper was presented at an International conference on cetaceans in Taiwan at 2005. This paper introduce historical document records of Chinese whales, status of whale conservation at the time in recent years and project the future of... more
This paper was presented at an International conference on cetaceans in Taiwan at 2005. This paper introduce historical document records of Chinese whales, status of whale conservation at the time in recent years and project the future of Chinese whales. There has been relatively few published data on China cetaceans in English. There has not been much interested in cetaceans and no many cetacean researchers in China. Although published almost 20 years ago.it is still a good reference for cetacean research in Chinese whales .
To compliant with UN Ocean Decade and Qatar National Vision and Ministry goals, the authors review existing available information and management policy related to conservation of marine resource, and carried out field studies to prepare a... more
To compliant with UN Ocean Decade and Qatar National Vision and Ministry goals, the authors review existing available information and management policy related to conservation of marine resource, and carried out field studies to prepare a national action plan to implement protection of marine assets using properly managed protection areas, and multidisciplinary concerted efforts as major management tools .
Dugongs (Dugong dugon) are mainly distributed in coastal areas of Hainan, Guangxi and occasionally in Guangdong, South of Taiwan in China. The population was much reduced between 1950's and 1970's. The remaining scattered population is in... more
Dugongs (Dugong dugon) are mainly distributed in coastal areas of Hainan, Guangxi and occasionally in Guangdong, South of Taiwan in China. The population was much reduced between 1950's and 1970's. The remaining scattered population is in the risk of extinction. Dugongs is listed among the Class I national protected wild animals in China. In 1991 the He Pu National Dugong Protected Area was established in Guangxi. Through public awareness exercise residents begin to know of the protected status of Dugong. In 1998 dugongs were sighted off Sha tian waters. Sea grass beds, Dugongs' favorite food were much reduced due to local fishing activities. To ensure healthy population of Dugong survive in China, law enforcement, public education, research into area especially where Sea grass and Dugong has been confirmed must be step up.
The book describe the historic record, biology the threats, and conservation action taken by Hong Kong government to protect this resident dolphin of Hong Kong. Sousa chinensis known in China as the Chinese white dolphin is found along... more
The book describe the historic record, biology the threats, and conservation action taken by Hong Kong government to protect this resident dolphin of Hong Kong. Sousa chinensis known in China as the Chinese white dolphin is found along the China coastal waters. The book was the result of 9 years of study on grey at birth, mottle, pink, and white color as the dolphin passes the different stages of life. The book also introduces Finless Porpoise another dolphin found year-round in Hong Kong. Baiji the Chinese river dolphin is now extinct and is briefly introduced in this book.
This special report is the Action Plans for countries to conserve and manage Dugong compiled by Pioneer dugong researcher Helene Marsh. Covering existing status global distribution of dugong and recommendations for each country or region... more
This special report is the Action Plans for countries to conserve and manage Dugong compiled by Pioneer dugong researcher Helene Marsh. Covering existing status global distribution of dugong and recommendations for each country or region for effective conservation of dugong. Although published 20 years ago it is still an important reference for dugong conservation and management .
This was the Action Plan for Global conservation of Dugong complied by Helene Mash in 2002. I contribution as the reviewer on the China dugong chapter and provide information of dugong in Chinea at the time. Although this book was... more
This was the Action Plan for Global conservation of Dugong complied by Helene Mash in 2002. I contribution as the reviewer on the China dugong chapter and provide information of dugong in Chinea at the time. Although this book was published 20 years ago it is still an important reference and applicable to many countries for dugong conservation. This book identifies threats to dugong survival and recommend conservation measures for environmental managers and conservationist.
Qatar is the only Peninsula in the Gulf. It consists of both deep and shallow water habitats for benthic and pelagic species, including 35 species of sharks and 25 species of rays. There are no sharks targeted by local fishers. Occasional... more
Qatar is the only Peninsula in the Gulf. It consists of both deep and shallow water habitats for benthic and pelagic species, including 35 species of sharks and 25 species of rays. There are no sharks targeted by local fishers. Occasional shark bycatch is sold for meat.
Research Interests:
There have been regular reports of marine mammal sightings and strandings in Qatar coast. There is formal study or records of marine mammals in Qatar. This the first official documentation of marine mammal sighting and stranding records... more
There have been regular reports of marine mammal sightings and strandings in Qatar coast. There is formal study or records of marine mammals in Qatar. This the first official documentation of marine mammal sighting and stranding records from available data in Qatar. There are at least 10 species of marine mammals identified in Qatar.
Research Interests:
A proposal to designate a large area of southern water of Hong Kong as a fishery and marine protected area for dolphins and porpoises. The area was once been a rich fishery nursery area and also an important feeding area for Hong Kong... more
A proposal to designate a large area of southern water of Hong Kong as a fishery and marine protected area for dolphins and porpoises. The area was once been a rich fishery nursery area and also an important feeding area for Hong Kong white dolphins and finless porpoises. It has been recognized by Mission Blue as the first Hope Spot in China water. Local NGOs and conservationists are lobbying for the government to set up the largest marine protected area in the territory. If successful it will increase the Marine Protected area of Hong Kong to 30% of its territorial water, making it meet the UN Ocean Decade target for 30 % of its water protected by law The group has taken several years to prepare the proposal to be accepted as a Hope Spot. Now the second stage is to promote it locally to make it a marine protected area a reality. Although it might take another several years,
This paper is the first study of stranding records and reviewing existing available data on Qatar marine mammals by government marine scientist over a period of several years Resulting in the conclusion that there are at least 10 species... more
This paper is the first study of stranding records and reviewing existing available data on Qatar marine mammals by government marine scientist over a period of several years Resulting in the conclusion that there are at least 10 species of marine mammals in Qatar water.
Research Interests:
This was the outline and brief introduction to marine protected areas of Hong Kong. Presented at an coastal ecology  talk series organised by Agriculture fishery and conservation department of Hong Kong government in 2003
This annual report describes the conservation work on whale sharks in the Gulf Region by Qatar and nations in the Gulf. It lists the development history of the Regional Whale Shark Conservation Centre (Qatar) in brief RWSCC. The Center's... more
This annual report describes the conservation work on whale sharks in the Gulf Region by Qatar and nations in the Gulf.
It lists the development history of the Regional Whale Shark Conservation Centre (Qatar) in brief RWSCC. The Center's achievements in scientific research, public education, and training of professional whale shark managers and researchers. Introduce new research techniques and encourage international cooperation through organizing forums and meetings, as well as active participation in UN conferences such as UNFCCC COP 28 in Dubai. RWSCC publicizes its observations and research results through its official website and social media, such as Instagram. The Center staff actively exchanges knowledge and techniques with academics and government officials in the Gulf region.
Public awareness exercises such as the celebration of International Whale Shark Day with hybrid, online, and in-person public lectures by experienced whale shark researchers. The production of the first national whale shark catalog of 340 whale sharks sets a new trend for whale shark conservation reference. The use of underwater and aerial photography and laser-photogrammetry to study and measure population structure, size, health, and trends, as well as individual shark health status, provides the latest research methodology to obtain high qualitative and quantitative results. This report is an important reference for all whale shark researchers and managers.
A herd of 700 dugongs feeds on seagrass every winter between Qatar and Bahrain. Neonate dugongs have been reported in the coastal waters of southeast Qatar and the UAE. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in Qatar is taking... more
A herd of 700 dugongs feeds on seagrass every winter between Qatar and Bahrain. Neonate dugongs have been reported in the coastal waters of southeast Qatar and the UAE. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in Qatar is taking conservation measures to protect this endangered species by designating two marine protected areas in Qatar
western shore and southeast coastal waters.
This is a report based on presentation abstracts of a forum organized jointly by The Qatar Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, UNESCO, and the Regional Whale Shark Conservation Centre(RWSCC) on Arabian Gulf Regional Whale Shark... more
This is a report based on presentation abstracts of a forum organized jointly by The Qatar Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, UNESCO, and the Regional Whale Shark Conservation Centre(RWSCC) on Arabian Gulf Regional Whale Shark Conservation. This report introduces the updated conservation efforts of Gulf countries on whale sharks. As the three organizers intend to repeat the forum every year, There will be an update on the conservation status of whale sharks in the region and the forum encourage the exchange of whale shark conservation and management among the gulf countries in the regions