SHARJAH: The Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah (EPAA) has revealed the completion of a scientific study, considered to be the first of its kind in the Middle East, concerning the analysis of persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals in the tissues of seven dead whales, in collaboration with the American University of Sharjah and Zayed University.
Commenting on the study, Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, EPAA Chairperson, said that the study falls within Sharjah Strandings Response Programme and was overseen by the Scientific Research Department and the Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Wildlife team of the EPAA, along with a research team consisting of eight researchers and experts in marine life.
She also mentioned that the EPAA has published the study’s results in the Regional Studies in Marine Science Journal, which is issued in the Netherlands. The study was applied to seven dead Whales found along the coasts of Sharjah, Dubai, Umm Al Quwain, and Khorfakkan city, comprising five Bryde’
s Whales, one Blue Whale, and one Humpback Whale.
Al Suwaidi added that through the tissue analysis of these whales in terms of persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals, the research team identified several causes leading to the deaths of whales. Most notable were collisions with ships and large vessels and entanglement with fishing gear, particularly the sturdy ropes in which whales become ensnared, leading to parts of their bodies being severed, such as tails and fins.
Additionally, these whales are affected by the plastic waste that fills the depths of the seas as they consume these bags and empty containers with their food, resulting in the blockage of their digestive tracts and, subsequently, their death.
Regarding the Sharjah Strandings Response Programme, the EPAA Chairperson stated that the programme implements an advanced plan for investigation and response to the stranding of reptiles, mammals, and seabirds and conducts scientific studies on the various samples collected from these creature
s. It aims to expand the current knowledge about environmental biodiversity and the types of threats facing marine animals and their ecosystems.
Moreover, the programme is considered an important tool for rapid response, rescuing affected creatures that need care and medical follow-up. She pointed out that the programme is divided into several tracks, including surveying, research, rescue of marine life, and environmental awareness.
Source: Emirates News Agency