Marine Algae As Bioindicators Of Pollution Levels In The Arabian Gulf

Abstract

The extensive distribution of several marine macroalgal species makes them a potential bioindicator tool for monitoring existing levels of different types of marine pollutants in the region. The present work illustrates the importance of a few widely distributed species of marine algae in depicting the levels of some toxic heavy metals and hydrocarbons along the Qatari and Saudi Arabian shores. Results indicate a strong bioaccumulation potential in these species for both heavy metals and hydrocarbons. A similar monitoring scheme using these identified species could very well be extended to other areas in the Gulf in order to form a comprehensive monitoring plan for the region. This field study also highlights the potential for removal of pollutants by algae as they are washed ashore in large quantities in the region.