Coral reefs in Iranian waters, primarily located in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, are currently under significant stress from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Although Iran’s coral reefs are limited in spatial extent compared to major global reef systems, they are ecologically and economically vital. These reefs are mainly fringing systems distributed around offshore islands and mainland coastlines, with a few submerged platforms and banks also supporting coral communities. These ecosystems host diverse marine life, including fish, invertebrates, and associated flora, and they contribute substantially to fisheries, tourism, and coastal protection. Despite their limited area, these coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots, providing essential ecosystem services such as shoreline stabilization, habitat for marine species, and support for artisanal and commercial fisheries. Over the past few decades, however, rapid industrialization and insufficient environmental regulation have increased their vulnerability. The semi-enclosed nature of the Persian Gulf—with its shallow depth, limited water exchange, and high evaporation rates—creates one of the most physiologically extreme marine environments globally. Coral species in this region have adapted to high temperatures and salinity levels that exceed those tolerated in most other reef systems. Yet, despite this resilience, the cumulative impacts of human activities are contributing to widespread degradation. This chapter synthesizes current knowledge on the primary threats to Iranian coral reefs and proposes science-based strategies for their protection and restoration.

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Conservation and Management of Iran’s Coral Reefs

  • Mohammad Reza Shokri,
  • Keivan Kabiri

摘要

Coral reefs in Iranian waters, primarily located in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, are currently under significant stress from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Although Iran’s coral reefs are limited in spatial extent compared to major global reef systems, they are ecologically and economically vital. These reefs are mainly fringing systems distributed around offshore islands and mainland coastlines, with a few submerged platforms and banks also supporting coral communities. These ecosystems host diverse marine life, including fish, invertebrates, and associated flora, and they contribute substantially to fisheries, tourism, and coastal protection. Despite their limited area, these coral reefs are biodiversity hotspots, providing essential ecosystem services such as shoreline stabilization, habitat for marine species, and support for artisanal and commercial fisheries. Over the past few decades, however, rapid industrialization and insufficient environmental regulation have increased their vulnerability. The semi-enclosed nature of the Persian Gulf—with its shallow depth, limited water exchange, and high evaporation rates—creates one of the most physiologically extreme marine environments globally. Coral species in this region have adapted to high temperatures and salinity levels that exceed those tolerated in most other reef systems. Yet, despite this resilience, the cumulative impacts of human activities are contributing to widespread degradation. This chapter synthesizes current knowledge on the primary threats to Iranian coral reefs and proposes science-based strategies for their protection and restoration.