Oman environment: Arabian Sea Humpback Whales project receives funding

Research and the conservation of the Arabian Sea Humpback Whales by the Environment Society of Oman (ESO) will now be funded, thanks to Renaissance Services SAOG.

Under memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Renaissance Services SAOG will fund field surveys in Oman, with a special emphasis on the Arabian Sea Humpback Whales, to help researchers better understand and conserve these endangered species. 

Suaad Al Harthi, Programs Director at ESO, thanked Renaissance Services SAOG for providing ESO with the support needed to continue the program over the years.

“Since we began our satellite tagging program, they have sponsored every expedition conducted to improve our knowledge of Arabian Sea Humpback Whales. As a result of their ongoing support, we are well positioned to boost our research efforts to help protect these wonderful creatures and preserve them for the future,” Al Harthi said.

In a study published in 2014, the Arabian Sea humpback whale has been identified as the most genetically distinct species of humpbacks in the world and may be the most isolated whale population on earth. Understanding their movement and habitat utilization is, therefore, crucial for their protection from human induced threats.

Stephen Thomas, CEO of Renaissance Services, stated that they are proud to be part of the initiative, and in order to improve conservation methods it is essential to gain even “more insight into the lives of these amazing creatures”.

“The seas of Oman are one of the most unique marine treasures in the region and are home to many Arabian Sea Humpback Whales. They, and many other species, are now facing threats such as overdevelopment, entanglement, and noise pollution. Our partnership with ESO is working to ensure that we know as much about them and where they are so that we can target conservation initiatives in those areas,” Thomas said.

Source: Timesofoman