Publications
 

Proceedings of The Eighth International Conference on the Mediterranean Coastal Environment

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 
Please click on the publication cover to download the table of contents in pdf file

VOLUME I
Integrated Coastal Management
Tools and Instruments for Integrated Coastal Management
Coastal Planning
Coastal and Marine Protection and Conservation
Dune & Wetland Management
Water Management
Tourism & Recreation
Urbanization
Ports & Transportation Issues
Living Resources
Coastal and Marine Ecology
Marine Biology, Chemistry & Biochemistry
Environmental Monitoring

VOLUME II
Coastal & Environmental Impacts
Pollution
Wastewater Management
Shoreline Managament
Coastal Engineering
Hydrodynamics
Sea Level Change
Coastal & Marine Geology
Remote Sensing & GIS
Various Subjects

 

 

ABSTRACTS

 

VOLUME I


Integrated Coastal Management

A Pilot Project for ICM in Turkey:
The Gökova Project (The EU SMAP III Programme)

Erdal Özhan(1) and Ilke Kosar(2)

(1) Volkan Sokak No: 52, Akyaka, Ula, Mugla,Turkey
Tel: +90 252 243 4501, Fax: +90 252 243 4547
E-mail: ozhan@metu.edu.tr, ozhan@mu.edu.tr
(2) Gökova Projesi Ofisi, Balikçi Barinagi Yani, 48650 Akyaka,
Ula, Mugla, Turkey, E-mail: gokova@mu.edu.tr

Abstract

This paper describes important features of the present system of coastal management in Turkey and provides the conclusions of comprehensive report (Özhan, 2005) on the measures to be taken for “integrating” and advancing coastal management in future. A significant opportunity in this direction is provided by the ongoing Gokova Project (EU SMAP III Programme). The project which is almost halfway is designed to demonstrate the real time integrated coastal management on a pilot scale and to build up a comprehensive management plan that addresses all important management issues of the area.

 


Integrated Coastal Management: the AMIS project, Algeria

Giovanni Gabbianelli(1), Elena Fabbri(1), Elisa Ulazzi(1), Michela Soldati(2), Marco Gonella(2), Said Kocheida(3), Alberto Galli (4), Vincenzo Marsala (4,5) and Alessandro Ali(6)

(1) Interdept. Centre for Environmental Sciences Research, University of Bologna, 48100 Ravenna, Italy
Tel: + 39-0544-937318, Fax: + 39-0544-937319
E-mail: giovanni.gabbianelli@unibo.it, elena.fabbri@unibo.it, elisa.ulazzi@unibo.it
(2) MED INGEGNERIA Srl, 44100, Ferrara, Italy
Tel: + 39-0544-467359, Fax: + 39-0544-501984
E-mail: michela.soldati@medingegneria.it, marco.gonella@medingegneria.it
(3) Agence urbaine chargée de la Promotion et la Protection du Littoral de la Wilaya d’Alger (APPL), Algier, Algeria
Tel: + 213-21-744422, Fax: + 213-21-744247
E-mail: saidkocheida@yahoo.fr
(4) SGI – Studio Galli Spa, Padova, Italy
Tel: + 39-049-8976844
E-mail: alberto.galli@sgi-spa.it
(5) E-mail: vincenzo.marsala@sgi-spa.it
(6) Hanami Progetti, Belluno, Italy
Tel: +39 0437 949131, Fax: +39 0437 292726
E-mail: vincenzo.marsala@sgi-spa.it

Abstract

The AMIS project (Algerian Coast Management through Integration and Sustainability) is implemented by CIRSA (Italian Interdepartmental Centre for Environmental Sciences Research), IMELS (Italian Ministry for Environment, Littoral and Sea) and the APPL (Agence Urbaine chargée de la Protection et de la Promotion du littoral et des zones touristiques de la Wilaya d’Alger).

 

The project aims at supporting national efforts in promoting sustainable use of coastal resources in Algeria and simultaneously contributes to the protection of the environment and sounder development of coastal zones in the Mediterranean by developing an Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) pilot plan for the two municipalities of Réghaïa and Heraoua located in the eastern part of the Wilaya d’Alger, that includes also the Ramsar site of Lac de Réghaïa (PAC, 2005).

 

The ICZM plan will be developed within the end of 2007 and will take into full consideration the inter-relationships between the activities performed in the stretch of the Algier’s coast, the environmental processes (e.g. erosion), and their impact on natural ecosystems. It will be prepared according to the following main steps that are under development: subdivision of the coast into homogeneous zones (taking into account natural and anthropic land & marine, features through also the development and the use of environmental and sensitivity indicators); environmental outline of the shore ( submerged and emerged) and backshore zones, evolution study for each sub zone (hydrodynamic processes, urban/rural/socio-economic development); actual and future human stress study on the backshore area for each sub zone; analysis and development of different scenarios (including climate change scenarios, population forecast) for the optimization of the coast utilization; environmental impact assessment of the planned actions, on the basis of local, national and European best practices concerning “sustainable development”; and development of a monitoring plan for the coast.

 

The development of the ICZM pilot plan for the two pilot municipalities aim at becoming an example of best practice for the stakeholders involved in the ICZM process. The repeatability of the methodologies and tools that will be used during the ICZM plan development will become a valid support for decision makers.

 


Towards an ICZM Plan for the Western Mediterranean Coast of Egypt

P. González-Riancho(1), R. Medina(1,2), M. Sanò(1,3) and M. Borhan(2,4)

(1) Environmental Hydraulics Institute “IH Cantabria”,
Ocean & Coastal Research Group, Universidad de Cantabria, Av. de Los Castros s/n 39005 Santander, Spain
Tel: +34 942 201810, Fax: +34 942 201860
E-mail: grianchop@unican.es
(2) E-mail: medinar@unican.es
(3) E-mail: sanom@unican.es
(2) Formerly at Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency, 30 Misr Helwan
El-Zyrae Road, Maadi, Cairo, Egypt.
(4) E-mail: noscp@link.net

Abstract

This paper describes the process to implement a plan for Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) in the western part of the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, within the framework of the project “Cooperation in the development of a plan for the Integrated Coastal Zone Management for the coastal area between Marsa Matruh and Sallum, Egypt” funded by the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation (AECI) and coordinated by the Environmental Hydraulics Institute “IH Cantabria” of the University of Cantabria (AECI, 2005).

 

The phases, objectives, methodology and results of the project will be thoroughly described. The project is at the beginning of the second phase at the moment, therefore it will be possible to present some products generated until now, such as the preliminary diagnosis of the area, the factsheets that have been created in order to summarize the information and to facilitate its use, the Geographic Information System (GIS), the results of the I Participatory Workshop held in Marsa Matruh in June 2007 and the Stocktaking of stakeholders, laws, projects and publications.

 


Towards the ICM in Croatia: Management and Planning Issues

Maja Fredotovic(1) and Sanja Frlan(2)

(1) Faculty of Economics in Split, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
Tel: +385-21-430 674, Fax: +385-21-430 701
E-mail: mfredot@efst.hr
(2) Faculty of Economics, University of Rijeka, 51215 Rijeka, Croatia
Tel: +385-51-355 136, Fax: +385-51-212 268
E-mail: sanja.frlan@efri.hr

Abstract

Croatian coast is one of the longest and relatively well preserved coasts of the Europe and the Mediterranean as a whole. However, taking into the account numerous recent adverse trends along the coast, it is not likely that latest feature could be preserved much longer.

 

Indeed, as in may other coastal zones, there are growing urbanisation and demographic problems. Population density varies from almost uninhabited areas to densities of urban agglomerations. Such social density problem gives rise, at least in the same of the parts of the coastal zone, to new sociological grouping, offering a new apprehension of the coastal zone and its resources. As far as the economy is concerned, there is an outstanding domination of the continental over coastal economy, due to specific national interests. Moreover, the same interests also determine the understanding of ecological importance of coastal zone. Therefore, national interests have often justified the adverse consequences that various sectors of economy produce in the coastal zone.

 

From the standpoint of the development and/or economic policy, it could be stated that there is no comprehension of the coast as a whole, and consequently, there is no development strategy for the coast at the national level. There is, however, national programme for the development of the islands, and the programmes of sustainable development of each island/group of islands are under elaboration; still, they are far from being operational. The next problem is the existence of various sectoral development strategies, as well as development strategies and regional operational plans of the seven counties that administratively represent the Croatian coast; the problem is that these strategies and plans are not coordinated and, taken altogether; they do not make a reasonable, balanced and comprehensive development strategy of the coastal zone.

 

Within such a framework, the integrated coastal management (ICM) is, undoubtedly, a necessity. The authors, therefore, investigate the main prerequisites for the introduction and development of such a system in the coastal zone of the Republic of Croatia. A special attention, however, is paid to the management and planning processes / systems, as the core part of the ICM. The analysis points out that a significant part of the conflicts along the coast have occurred due not (only) because of different land uses, but also because of the divergent interests of management structures at various management levels. The issue of conflicting and overlapping jurisdictions at various levels of administration and management also appears as an obstacle to the more efficient coastal management. Finally, the authors claim that the local authorities are not given enough power and means to carry out all the tasks regarding local development and environmental protection. In relation to the operation of the local authorities towards responsible management and use of the coast, the authors also examine the public participation and awareness issues.

 



ICAM in Croatia - Another Plan or Strategic Projects?

M. Sumpor(1) and I. Dokic(1,2)

(1) The Institute of Economics, Zagreb, Spatial Economics Department
Trg J.F. Kennedy 7, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
Tel: +385 1 2362 200, Fax: +385 1 2335 165
E-mail: msumpor@eizg.hr or marisumpor@yahoo.com
(2) E-mail: idokic@eizg.hr or idokic@yahoo.com

Abstract

Within the context of integrated coastal area management (ICAM), this research investigates the complexity of horizontal and vertical institutional relationships in the case of Croatia. There are three aspects, namely sectors, areas and levels that represent a basis for developing a methodological approach for evaluating ICAM approaches. It is questioned, if this specific management approach adds to the complexity of development management in general or does it contribute to better and more sustainable implementation of existing plans in coastal areas. The main thesis of this research is that coastal area management approaches should rather concentrate on implementation of concrete strategic projects and contribute to implementation of existing plans. The creation of just another plan or strategy, which is not implemented, should be avoided. Due to the complex management requirements, ICAM calls for an evolutionary and process oriented approach. Only visible results that derive from implemented projects can enable institutions to learn how to plan and manage development in coastal areas more carefully in an integrated manner considering also a longer term perspective.

 


Strengthening the Management of Coastal Zone

Sztobryn Marzenna(1), Krzyminski Wlodzimierz(1,2),
Stepko Waldemar(1,3) and Letkiewicz Beata(1,4)

(1) Instytut Meteorologii i Gospodarki Wodnej, Oddzial Morski,
(Institute of Meteorology and Water Management, Maritime Branch)
81-342 Gdynia, Waszyngtona 42, Poland
Tel: +48 58 62 88 100, Fax:+ 48 58 62 88 13
E-mail: Marzenna.Sztobryn@imgw.pl
(2) E-mail: Wlodzimierz. Krzyminski@imgw.pl
(3) E-mail: Waldemar.Stepko@imgw.pl
(4) E-mail: Beata.Letkiewicz @imgw.pl

Abstract

The aim of the paper is presentation of the project entitled: Strengthening the Management of Polish Coastal Zone Environment (SeAMan), now under realization by IMGW OM (Institute of Meteorology and Water Management, Maritime Branch) and financed by Norwegian Financial Mechanism. Foreseen result of the project will be a system of current (real-time) and forecast information exchange is building. This system will cover the coastal and inshore zone, for the need of local and regional authorities. The informatics infrastructure and a central repository (data bank) of maritime environmental data will be expanded by this system. The system will be implemented both in the management centre and in the regional sub-offices and will involve the training courses for a number of parameters to be measured in the future additionally, using the existing observing stations.

 


Tools and Instruments for Integrated Coastal Management


The Use of IUCN and Ramsar Guidelines in ICZM -
A Case Study

Jentje van der Weide, Mzia Gabunia and Tchichico Janalidze

GPAP, Tbilisi Georgia
Tel: 995 32 250105
E-mail: gpap@gpap.org.ge

Abstract

The paper describes the use of IUCN and Ramsar guidelines for the preparation of two wetland management plans. It briefly reviews these guidelines and presents the framework proposed for management plan preparation. It describes the techniques and tools that were used to prepare the plans accordingly and presents the project outputs.

 


Coastal Zone Management Plans: Old Ideas New Tools

Helena Calado(1) and Adriano Quintela(1,2)

(1) Universidade dos Açores, Secção de Geografia, Secção de Geografia, 9501-801 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Tel: + 351296650100, Fax: +351296650000
E-mail: calado@notes.uac.pt
(2) E-mail: quintela@notes.uac.pt

Abstract

The coastal zones are sensitive areas subject to strong anthropic pressures. Those pressures limit its biological diversity, natural landscape and environmental quality. The majority of the population and economical activities are located in the coastal zones threatening the equilibrium of the coastal environment in the absence of adequate management.

 

The few existing conservation measures along with the intensive use lead to a necessity of developing management measures related to the coast. Efforts have been focused on adopting measures towards a sustainable development. The conflicting interests between the need of protection and the human pressures (urban and leisure), must be minimized and conveniently managed.

 

In Portugal the development of territorial planning instruments as tools of nature management improved during the last decade. The Coastal Zone Management Plans are the instruments intend to assure that the principles established by law for the use and transformation of coastal zones (Decree nr 302/90, September 26th) are implemented.

 

The Decree nr 380/99 dated from September 22nd establishes the legal regime of the territory management instruments in Portugal and considers the Coastal Zone Management Plans (CZMP) as Territorial Major Master Plans of a regulatory nature. According to the article 42º (2), the Territory Management Special Plans constitute a supplementary means of Governmental intervention aiming to pursuit objectives of national interest with spatial effects, establishing protection regimens of natural resources and values and assuring the maintenance of systems which are essential to the territory sustainable use.

 

The evaluation of the success of implementing management plans at coastal level will be basis for the sustainable use of the coastal areas. What is proposed on this paper is assessment and analysis of the different tools used in four CZMP: Santa Maria, Graciosa, Flores and Corvo. Being islands of the autonomous Portuguese region of Azores, the Plans required several creative adaptations of the existing tools. In this paper special attention will be given to Public Participation and Strategic Environmental Assessment.

 


The Approach Imagine to Contribute to Sustainable Coastal Area Management in the Mediterranean

Elisabeth Coudert(1) and Mohamed Larid(2)

(1) UNEP / MAP / Blue Plan Regional Activity Centre, 15 rue Beethoven, Sophia-Antipolis, 06560 Valbonne, France
Tel: + 334 92 38 71 30, Fax: + 33 4 92 38 71 31
E-mail: ecoudert@planbleu.org
(2) Institut des Sciences de la Mer et de l’Aménagement du Littoral, Campus universitaire de Dely Brahim, Alger, Algérie
Tel: + 213 21 91 77 90, Fax: + 213 21 37 68 06
E-mail: med7_larid@yahoo.fr

Abstract

In order to meet the needs of the sustainable coastal zone management in the Mediterranean, Blue Plan jointly with Dr Simon Bell (Bayswater Institute, UK) has developed the Imagine approach which allows: (i) to build a sustainable development vision and an area project by mobilizing actors within a participatory process; (ii) to describe, assess and examine the level of sustainability of a local system in the past, present and future by means of indicators; (iii) to set goals to be achieved and to follow progress of the system towards sustainable development. Imagine is based on systemic analysis, indicators and the sustainability threshold concept and prospective. It is a dynamic and participatory process using local actors’ expertise. The above items are shortly described. Then the implementation is explained according to an Imagine exercise in Algeria (2003-2004) and in Slovenia (2005). The conclusion summarizes difficulties and contributions of the method within an integrated coastal area management project.

 


Islands of Theory in a Sea of Practice:
Implementation Theory and Coastal Management

Christopher House(1) and Michael R. Phillips(1,2)

(1) School of Built and Natural Environment, Faculty of Applied Design and Engineering, Swansea Institute (University of Wales), Mount Pleasant, Swansea, Wales, UK. SA1 6ED
Tel: + 44 1792 481106, Fax: + 44 1792 651760
E-mail: c.house@sihe.ac.uk
(2) E-mail: m.phillips@sihe.ac.uk

Abstract

Considerable research has highlighted the corollary between scientific theory and ICM application. Debates are principally focused on: policy formulation; non-linearity of process; sound research underpinning coastal solutions; and overt influences. Consequently, clearly identified theoretical implementation frameworks for ICM, incorporating scientifically informed goals, are needed. From a theoretical review and semi-structured interviews with representatives from supranational, national and local government/quasi government organisations in South Wales, an ICM implementation model was developed. Based on a synthesis of top-down and bottom-up policy implementation theory, the model presents four sub sections. Firstly, policy formulation and guiding influences of fixed and unstable factors are addressed. Secondly, the implementation stage assesses the relationship between various actors, including mandarins, target groups and street level bureaucrats. Thirdly, the model distinguishes between policy output and outcome, with particular emphasis on the science and policy link. Finally, the role of policy evaluation and feedback makes the model a cyclical process. It showed that a universal ICM model of implementation is beyond present theoretical knowledge. However, the model enables a fuller appreciation of the policy process and its complex nature, so that goals, tools, instruments and actors can combine to ensure excellence in application and efficiency.

 


Sustainability Systems Appraisal for Integrated Coastal Zone Management

Anthony W. Gallagher

School of Engineering, Construction and Maritime Studies,
Faculty of Technology, Southampton Solent University, East Park Terrace,
Southampton, UK, SO14 0RD
Tel: + 44 (0) 2380 319748 Fax: + 44 (0) 2380 319739
E-mail: Anthony.Gallagher@solent.ac.uk

Abstract

Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) is a process defined in terms of achieving sustainable development. Despite sustainability being accepted by the majority of organizations currently operating on the coast, the integrated approach is seen as the more constructive and beneficial alternative to achieve this state. If ‘success’ for ICZM means sustainable development, then the question is how it attempts to achieve this, and, more specifically, how effectively it does so? Put another way, how can the management process be evaluated in terms of achieving its aims? Despite several attempts to produce indicator sets, there is currently no established or validated way of assessing the effectiveness of ICZM initiatives and consequently no means by which to judge their strategic performance. This paper attempts to address this by outlining the development and evaluation of a standardised operating mechanism for assessing ICZM initiatives.



On the basis of previous work, the ‘Coastal Sustainability Standard’ was developed around a framework of six principles, namely planning; participation; communication; integration; responsibility; and, balance, with a set of criteria established for each. A scoring system and set of guidelines were then designed to maximise the level of objectivity in carrying out the assessment, with the scoring system reflecting the systems thinking inherent in the design.


In order to validate the mechanism, three coastal partnerships (CPs) in the UK were selected against which to carry out a detailed application of the Standard. These were the Exe Estuary Management Partnership (EEMP); Tamar Estuaries Consultative Forum (TECF); and, Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum (PCF), all of which scored relatively poorly. That none of the three CPs achieved the pre-requisite standard raised a number of considerations relating to the efficacy of the Standard and its operation, as well as to the nature of ICZM in the UK.

 

Conclusions drawn from this evaluation identified that the current operation of ICZM exhibits a disjointed approach to achieving its long-term goals as a result of its voluntary nature. The voluntary approach employed can be seen to be at the root of a number of problems facing the successful development of ICZM. In terms of resources, it has implications for the skills, knowledge and training of coastal managers, as well as the funding available to develop and implement effective plans. The voluntary approach also does not ‘encourage’ appropriate cultural changes within or between stakeholder organizations, and does not impart joint responsibility or collective liability upon stakeholders to achieve sustainable development.

 

The development and application of the CSS has been shown to have some efficacy and, given the number of relevant policy initiatives currently underway, contribute to the topical debate about way forward for ICZM. Furthermore, it is seen as a way of initialising a debate relating to professional skills and competencies required of ICZM; of adding value to the management process of individual initiatives; and of providing a mechanism for a strategic review process.

 


Recent Policies and Tools for Ecological Evaluation of the Mediterranean Sea

Gianna Casazza(1), Cecilia Lopez y Royo(1,2), Massimo Dalù(1,3), Flavia Saccomandi(1,4), Emanuela Spada(1,5) and Cecilia Silvestri(1,6)

(1) APAT, Agency for Environmental Protection and Technical Services, Inland and Marine Waters Department, via V. Brancati 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
Tel: +39-06-50072838, Fax: +39-06-50072219
E-mail: gianna.casazza@apat.it
(2) E-mail: cecilia.lopezyroyo@apat.it
(3) E-mail: massimo.dalu@apat.it
(4) E-mail: flavia.saccomandi@apat.it
(5) E-mail: emanuela.spada@apat.it
(6) E-mail: cecilia.silvestri@apat.it

Abstract

The marine environment, under considerable increasing human pressures, has received different regional, national and International measures of analysis, management and strategies for its protection. In the Mediterranean Sea, different strategies for the protection of the marine environment are in action, or under development, within EU legislations and International agreements. A number of differences, at the geographical, legal, administrative, technical and scientific level exist and coordination across programmes and across the Mediterranean basin is needed. Some programmes are legally binding for EU countries, others have to be applied by all countries but their enforcement power is limited. In particular, recent policies as the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD), the EU Marine Strategy proposal and the UNEP-MAP-MEDPOL, Phase IV are adopting similar approaches for an ecological evaluation of the marine environment.



In this paper some technical requirements, to achieve the goals of the three programmes, are analysed and compared, in order to highlight possible integration and coordination among the different strategies. Attention is focused on quality elements used for ecological status assessment some results of the application of the operating policies are also discussed.

 


Ocean Fundamental Law and its Possible Influences
on Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Japan

Kazumi Wakita

GEF/UNDP/IMO Partnerships in Environmental Management
for the Seas of East Asia (PEMSEA),
DENR Compound, Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
Tel: 63-2-920-2211, Fax: 63-2-926-9712
E-mail: kwakita@pemsea.org

Abstract

On the 20th April 2007, Ocean Fundamental Law was enacted in Japan, which requires Japanese government to establish Ocean Fundamental Plan. On the other hand, National Land Planning of Japan enlarged its coverage area to EEZ and continental shelf in 2005. Regarding Integrated Coastal Zone Management, it had just been described in the National Land Planning with no binding force, and now it is clearly stated in Ocean Fundamental Law.

 

The objective of this paper is to clarify the points and significances of Ocean Fundamental Law and to foresee its possible influences on the implementation of Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Japan.

 


Coastal Planning

Detailed Conception of Coastal Strip Spatial Arrangements

Leon Gosar(1), Tanja Prešeren(1,2),
Manca Plazar Mlakar(1,3) and Alenka Poljšak(4)

(1) University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Civil and Geodetic Engineering, Ljubljana, Slovenia
Tel: (386) 14253460, Fax: (386) 14269163
E-mail: leon.gosar@fgg.uni-lj.si
(2) E-mail: tanja.preseren@fgg.uni-lj.si
(3) E-mail: manca.mlakar@fgg.uni-lj.si
(4) Municipality of Koper, Koper, Slovenia
Tel: (386) 56646100, Fax: (386) 6271602
E-mail: alenka.poljsak@koper.si

Abstract

In the article the model of searching synergistic solutions points out the most adequate spatial solutions in the spirit of rational spatial development, positive effects on a wider and local areas as well as achievement of a comprehensive sustainable development with regard to the environmental, spatial, economic, social and cultural levels and aspects will be presented for entire Slovenian coast from results of project Detailed Conception of Coastal Strip Spatial Arrangements. The project was part of Coastal Area Management Programme Slovenia project.

 


Coastal Zone Planning and Management in Istanbul

Berna Ayat(1), Zeynep Üzmez(1,2), Esin Özkan Çevik(1,3) and Yalçin Yüksel(1,4)

(1) Yildiz Technical University, 34349 Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: + 90 212 259 70 70, Fax: + 90 212 259 67 62
E-mail: bayat@yildiz.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: zeynepuzmez@hotmail.com
(3) E-mail: cevik@yildiz.edu.tr
(4) E-mail: yuksel@yildiz.edu.tr

Abstract

Vulnerable coastal areas of Istanbul like all over the world face problems such as population growth, industrialization, commercial development and tourism, and extensive exploitation of marine resources. Many places has resulted increase in erosion and flooding, loss of wetlands, pollution. In addition, the risk of natural hazards increases due to the global climate change. As a result, conflicts of interest occur more frequently and the sustainable use of natural and environmental resources is threatened.



To help resolve these conflicts ICZM has developed for Istanbul coastal areas. An inventory for Istanbul Coastal zone was studied. Strategical plan aims and propositions for future planning were developed.

 


Beylikdüzü (SW Istanbul) Coastal Planning Project

Erdogan Okus(1), Vehbi Orakçi(2), T. Ahmet Ertek(3), Sedat Kapdasli(4), Cem Gazioglu(5), Ali Fuat Aydin(6),
Zeki Yasar Yücel(5), Hakan Kaya(2,7) ve Ertugrul Dogan(8)

(1) Istanbul University, Institute of Marine Sciences and Management,
Department of Physical Oceanography and Marine Biology,
34116 Vefa, Istanbul, Turkey
(2) Beylikdüzü Municipality, Beylikdüzü, Istanbul Turkey
E-mail: vehbiorakci@beylikduzu.bel.tr
(3) Istanbul University, Faculty of Literature, Department of Geography, Division of Physical Geography, Laleli Beyazit, Turkey
E-mail: taertek@istanbul.edu.tr
(4) ITU, Civil Engineering Faculty, Department of Hydraulic, Maslak,
Istanbul, Turkey
(5) Istanbul University, Institute of Marine Sciences and Management,
Department of Marine Environment, BERKARDA Remote Sensing and GIS Laboratory, 34116 Vefa Istanbul, Turkey
E-mail: cemga@istanbul.edu.tr
(6) ITU, Civil Engineering Faculty, Department of Environment, Maslak, Istanbul Turkey
(7) E-mail: hakankaya@beylikduzu.bel.tr
(8) Istanbul University, Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, Department of Marine Environment, 34116 Vefa, Istanbul, Turkey

Abstract

Istanbul coasts have been under pressure due to anthropogenic activity and filling both natural and unnatural methods since Roman time. Only narrow Beylikdüzü coasts are still virgin in Istanbul coasts because of some land use decision of ex-municipality board, low population of coastal areas of Beylikdüzü, low road density of south part of Beylikdüzü, highly pullulated river input. Coastal engineering and river regulate projects started in 2005 and some small engineering project finished to support main projects. Each project has unique and new approach to management both coast and river basins. Their results and sub results give us very important experiment to approach virgin areas in metropolitan areas such as Istanbul.

 


Coastal and Marine Protection and Conservation

Importance of Protected Areas in Coastal and Marine Conservation: A Case Study from North Lebanon

Sami Lakkis(1) and Waad Sabour(2)

(1) Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
Tel: + 961 3637877, Fax: + 961 9540121
E-mail: slakkis@ul.edu.lb
(2) Tishreen University, Lattakia, Syria
Tel: + 963 955731536, Fax: +963 41465788
E-mail: t-waad@scs-net.org

Abstract

Establishing a marine reserve constitutes one of the most important objectives for the conservation of marine environment and protection of the marine life. Palm Islands situated north Lebanon was declared as National Reserve by an official Declaration law in 1992. These three uninhabited small rocky islands situated at 6 miles offshore Al-Mina-Tripoli, constitute the only insular reserve on the Levantine coast. Amongst the seven small islands, the largest three: Palm Island, Sanani, and Ramkine, are suitable for a settlement of a marine reserve. They are distant about 800 m from each other and separated by shallow water 10-12 m with rocky bottom platform formed during the Miocene era. The rocky bottom surrounding the islands is covered with sandy, muddy sediments and gravel: The total area of the islands is 270.000 m2 and the highest point in Ramkine is 12 m above sea level. The land is swampy with few freshwater wells and few small vegetation (flowers and herbs) The islands were classified as International Bird Area by the Life Bird International; since they constitute a refuge for seabirds and landing station for migratory birds. There is a nesting community for several seabirds from genus Larus. West and SW coasts are of rocky eroded feature and exposed to the strong wind and heavy waves, Intertidal and infralittoral zones are covered with dense and diversified algae meadows. The East and NE sandy beach are formed at 90% with shells wrecks and organic particles. Temperature of seawater ranges between 16°C in February and 30°C in August. Flora which is highly diversified includes all species of microalgae and macroalgae Fauna, although poor in standing crop, shows a high taxonomic diversity; all groups and species of Zooplankton, Nekton, Fishes, Micro and Macrozoobenthos inhabiting the Levantine Basin are found in this area. Palm Islands which are considered as a National Protected Area is a nice place for ecotourism and a natural laboratory for education, scientific research and recreation. Fishing and wild picnics are strictly forbidden and visits are organized and managed by Ministries of Environment and Tourism.

 


The Threats on the Biodiversity of Gökova SPA and Solutions for a Sustainable Environment

E. Okus(1), A. Yüksek(1,2), I.N. Yilmaz(1), A. Aslan-Yilmaz(1),
N. Demirel(1), S.Ü. Karhan(1), V. Demir(1), S. Zeki(1), B. Yokes(1), U. Tural(1) and E. Koç(1)

(1) Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, Istanbul University, Muskule Sok. No: 1 Vefa Eminonu 34116 Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 5196788, Fax: +90 212 5268433
(2) E-mail: ayuksek@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

The marine biodiversity of Gökova specially protected area (SPA) lead a serious contradiction between conservation of biodiversity and human use. Among 723 macroscopic species, Gokova SPA sheltered 34 species under protection. However, possible solutions have been proposed to the authorities for the problems recorded during this study. Problems related to over fishing, anchoring, wastewater reclamation, the yacht tourism and aquaculture needs immediate attention and some progress to solve these problems has already been achieved. The further measures should include other threats on the biodiversity such as the selective fishing, trading of protected species and habitat loss due to land use. Solutions on scientific basis should be developed in order to conserve the marine biodiversity as well as a sustainable fisheries and ecotourism in specially protected areas and Gokova Spa is a promising example for such attempts.

 


Identifying Critical Habitats for Cetacea, Gower, UK

R. E. Jenkins

Faculty of Applied Design and Engineering, Swansea Institute,
Swansea, South Wales, UK SA1 6ED
Tel: +440 1792 481149, Fax +440 1792 651760
E-mail: rhian.jenkins@sihe.ac.uk

Abstract

Marine organisms at every trophic level are increasingly under pressure from anthropogenic activities. Conservation of coastal areas is affected by climate and sea level fluctuations, over fishing, pollution and development. Their synergistic and cumulative effects means there is an urgent need to monitor species throughout the generic marine food chain. Designating conservation status can mitigate some of these pressures, but in order to effectively manage these areas, baseline data is needed.

Research has revealed a resident population of Harbour Porpoises Phocoena phocoena in and around the Swansea Bay and Gower area. However, little was known about its status or habitat preference. Using megafauna as bio-indicators of ocean health is well established and while small cetacean abundance surveys have been undertaken around the UK, none have covered these coastal waters. Elsewhere, population numbers have declined sharply and in some areas, wholesale changes in distributional patterns have been documented. Coastal pressures have resulted in habitat degradation, noise, nutrient and chemical pollution and recent observations reveal Bottlenose Dolphin Tursiops truncatus predation. Suggested reasons for this behaviour are infanticide (interspecies eradication) or competition for scarce food resources. In 2006 Carmarthen Bay in Swansea was awarded Special Area of Conservation (SAC) status but its management under the Habitats and Species Directive (Council Directive (92/43/EEC) demands knowledge of habitat use within a species’ range. Successful conservation relies upon the quality of information at the manager’s disposal and it is imperative that population dynamics, critical areas and habitat preferences be identified. Using a combination of vessel and land-based transects, together with focal behavioural studies, Harbour Porpoises were monitored over a three-year period. Further analysis of tidal state, currents, bathymetry and food sources resulted in the identification of critical foraging, nursery and transient habitats. Seasonal distributions were documented and some small-scale on-shore / off-shore movement identified. The management challenge lies in the trans-boundary and mobile nature of cetacea and it is argued that an ecosystem management strategy should be adopted.

 


Landscape Management in the Mediterranean

Marko Prem

UNEP Mediterranean Action Plan, Priority Actions Programme
Regional Activity Centre (PAP/RAC), 21000 Split, Croatia
Tel: + 385 21 340 475, Fax: + 385 21 340490
E-mail: marko.prem@ppa.t- com.hr

Abstract

The Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) of UNEP is introduced first to familiarise with its legal and institutional structure, and the main activities. An overview of the main landscape types and the richness of the Mediterranean region is followed by the main pressures and trends as the driving forces, such as processes in coastal urbanisation, tourism and agriculture that are responsible for the landscape changes, which too often result in its deterioration.

 

The main concepts and approaches of landscape management, including its opportunities and limits, are presented in the second part, as follows:
- Landscape planning: a concept for an integrated planning procedure and various strategies for a protective action;
- Vulnerability analysis: an ex-ante assessment of environmental vulnerability, based on identification of spatial characteristics, which may lead to negative impacts of planned development on environmental/landscape qualities. Case projects from CAMP Slovenia and CAMP Spain are presented;
- Landscape character assessment: a technique to classify, describe and understand the physical and cultural characteristics of the landscape is presented by the project on characterisation of landscapes in Tunisian coastal areas;
- Modelling and simulations of landscape change: an approach to simulate options for the landscape change when new developments or reconstruction of the existing uses, such as modernisation of agriculture, are proposed. Revitalising of the agricultural landscape on the island of Korcula, Croatia, illustrates this approach; and
- Outstanding landscapes: a concept of protection of the most valuable cultural landscapes and criteria for their identification.

 


Integrated Management of Archaeological Heritage: Mediterranean Coasts of Turkey

Nida Nayci(1) and Neriman Sahin Güçhan(1,2)

(1) Middle East Technical University, Faculty of Architecture,
Department of Architecture, Graduate Program of Restoration and Preservation, 122 Inonu Bulvari, 06531, Ankara
Tel: + 90-312-210 22 03, Fax: +90-312-210 79 66
E-mail: nayci@arch.metu.edu.tr, nidanayci@gmail.com
(2) E-mail: neriman@metu.edu.tr

Abstract

Mediterranean coastal areas possess great amount of historic and archaeological assets joined up with ecological and natural values. Many of these fragile environments were originally constructed on the dry-lands, which have been transformed into different environmental context with the evolution of coastal areas over centuries and millennia. Today, increased population and poorly planned coastal activities are conflicting with the conservation principles of these fragile environments.

 

With this concern, the aim of this paper is to define a method for documentation and evaluation of values and problems in coastal archaeological heritage of Turkey. For this purpose, through the selected segment of Mediterranean coastal area, a group of protected archaeological sites will be analyzed in order to overview the groups of value and significance they possess, damages caused by natural processes, problems and stress aroused by coastal uses. In the final; assessments related to their current situation will be carried out so as to sustain “join-up thinking” towards their integrated management. The paper will be concluded with recommendations related to development of future strategies for the sustainability of these environments and their contribution into integrated management policies.

 


K'Gari or Paradise Island

Pedro Fernández Carrasco

Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, ETS Ingenieros de Caminos, Canales y Puertos, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Tel: + 34-913366734, Fax: + 34-913366734
E-mail: pfernandez@caminos.upm.es

Abstract

K´Gari Island, today known as Fraser Island, is the tenth World Heritage listed site in Australia, and one of the most attractive places to visit in Queensland, offered by travel agencies abroad in international tourism meetings like the last International Tourism Trade Fair, FITUR (2007) held in Madrid, Spain, last January 2007. It is 124 kilometres long, and an area of 163.000 hectares makes K´Gari the largest sand island in the world, and the only place in the planet where rainforest grows from sand. After a century of exploitation of timber, sand minerals and fish, logging and sand mining have ceased after many years of campaigning by environmental groups. A new challenge to protect the island today is to evaluate the impact of the growing of number of visitors and to establish the appropriated management. A preliminary view of this aspect is presented in this work following the message from K´Gari Island´s Traditional Custodians, the Badtjala people: “Welcome, but please look after country-our land,” Queensland Parks and Wild Live Service (2007), (QPWLS).

 


Dune & Wetland Management

Constraints, Limits and Perspectives for Integrated Coastal Zone Management in the Rhone River Delta

Philippe Chauvelon

Tour du Valat Research Center, Hydrosciences and Spatial Dynamics Unit,
Le Sambuc, 13200 Arles, France
Tel: +33-4-90972972, Fax: +33-4-90972019
E-mail: chauvelon@tourduvalat.org

Abstract

The multidisciplinary research project “GIZCAM” began in January 2006 and will last 3 years, coordinating several research axes in order to promote Integrated Coastal Zone Management. It is scheduled to finalize a simulation model of the “Ile de Camargue” (Rhone Delta central area) hydrological functioning; to make it more modular in order to integrate new hydraulic management options, in normal (agricultural drainage) or critical (river floods and sea storms) situation. This tool is based in particular on data generated by a GIS, whose further implementation will lead to a control board of delta land use and ecosystems status. The evolution of coastline and bathymetric profiles in most sensible areas will be studied on a quantitative basis in relation with existing coastal defence structures and wave forcing. The results should allow suggesting alternative management options of the coastal area. Pesticides fluxes, from input on the delta drainage basin area, and salt fluxes at the sea interface, will be investigated, in order to estimate global transfer functions in the hydro system. Empirical sociological study will be conducted, focusing on understanding actions, decision making processes, and their impact on the functioning of the water executive commission. A role-playing game based on a Multi Agent simulation tool, will be used to assess negotiation processes while searching to establish sustainable management rules for coastal wetlands.

 


Toward Management of Nile Delta Coastal Sand Dunes

Mahmoud M. El Banna

National Water Research Center, Coastal Research Institute, 15 El Pharaana Street 21514, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2034844615, Fax: +2034844614
E-mail: elbanna_mahmoud@yahoo.com

Abstract

The present paper deals with types, distribution, origin and problems of recent sand dunes along the Mediterranean coast of Nile Delta, Egypt. Sand samples were studied for grain size distribution and mineralogical composition. It has been found that most of the dunes in the study area have been subjected to deterioration and removal due to the construction of summer resort buildings and making the International Coastal Highway. The remnant constitutes a belt of foredunes on the shore of the middle part of the Nile Delta extending from El Burullus Lagoon eastwards to Gamasa city. Another damaged belt of foredunes extends from El Bouseily village to the west of Idku town on the western shore of the Nile Delta. In the eastern part of the Nile Delta, sand dunes on El Tineh plain coalesce and extending along the Mediterranean coast of Sinai. They are continuously migrating inland causing hazards affect on the sustainable development of the region and threaten the lives of people.

 

The dune’s origin is interpreted as the result of coastal drifting and the subsequent transport of the former Nile branches sediments eastward by the predominant longshore current and by aeolian processes. The blown sand grains accumulated to form coastal dunes of original longitudinal and crescentic forms. Urbanization of the coast has severely altered the landscape.

 

The study area is considered vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and the expected rise in sea-level. The outcome of sea level rise is serious; erosion problems are expected to be exacerbated, vast areas from land and property would be lost. Thus, protecting and developing the remaining dunes in the study area are vital requirements for strengthening shoreline defenses against beach erosion as an effective way to mitigate possible consequences of sea-level rise.

 


A Re-Analysis of the AD 365 Tsunami Impact along the Egyptian Coast

Amr Hamouda

National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Alexandria, Egypt
E-mail: amrhamoudaus@yahoo.com, amr@niof.sci.eg

Abstract

The 21 July AD 365 tsunami was destroyed many parts in different countries along the East Mediterranean. The main destruction impact is effect on Crete and Egypt. This tsunamigenic event was examined to study the effect of location, direction, travel time and height towards the Egyptian Coast. This tsunami is related to earthquake which is identified with a Hellenic Arc subduction- zone event of `great` (M>8) magnitude, as testified by up to 9 m of uplift in western Crete. Computed tsunami features such as travel times and run-up height distribution are given; which are useful in the evaluation of the tsunami hazard.

 


Application of Participatory Method for Beach Management

Valentina Marin(1), Roberta Ivaldi(1,2), Francesca Palmisani(3) and Mauro Fabiano(1,4)

(1) University of Genoa, DIP.TE.RIS., 16132, Genova, Italy
Tel: + 39-010-3538069, Fax: + 39-010-3538140
E-mail: marin@dipteris.unige.it
(2) E-mail: ivaldi@dipteris.unige.it
(3) Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei (FEEM), 20123, Milano, Italy
Tel: + 39-02-52036934, Fax: + 39-02-52036946
E-mail: francesca.palmisani@feem.it
(4) E-mail: fabianom@unige.it

Abstract

Results from the application of a participatory approach in the final phase of a project (named SABBIA), aiming at improving beach management in the Liguria Region, are reported. A new methodology developed for the involvement of stakeholders and/or experts, called NetSyMod (Network Analysis–Creative System Modelling–Decision Support), was applied in order to test results obtained in the first phases of the SABBIA project and to further investigate local authorities and main stakeholders’ point of view. Particularly, a specific workshop was organized, involving participants selected within regional and local authorities, technical institutions, universities and main tourism category associations. Main outputs of the workshop were: i) the definition of a specific and concerted conceptual model of the environmental and socio-economic framework in the considered coastal area, with a specific focus on beaches and ii) the evaluation of 12 management options (6 ongoing and 6 proposed interventions), contributing to the definition of new planning strategies for local sustainable beach management.

 


Analysis of Beach Users’ perception in Tourist Coastal Areas: A Case Study in the Costa Brava, Spain

Miriam Villares(1) and Elisabet Roca(1,2)

(1) Technical University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
Tel: + 34934011617, Fax: +34934017264
E-mail: Miriam.villares@upc.edu
(2) E-mail: Elisabet.roca@upc.edu

Abstract

Recent years beach management practices have broadened their scope and have integrated a wide range of parameters regarding water quality, safety, public education, geomorphology, facilities and so on in their assessment processes. However, a complementary bottom-up perspective that considers beach users’ preferences and demands is still missing. Our aim is to explore beach users’ perceptions and attitudes towards beach quality in order to contribute to provide beach evaluation procedures with a more holistic approach. Being aware that the translation of beach user demands into policy recommendations should be made with caution, we propose to examine separately each social opinions group and their behaviour through a cluster analysis.



A study case was carried out in six beaches of the “Costa Brava” (north-east Spain), a typical Mediterranean area that attracts European tourism but also national visitors and residents. Beach user’s perceptions were collected by means of a questionnaire randomly applied during two weekends of the peak seasons in 2004 and 2005. The questionnaire included information on the socioeconomic profile of the respondents, their motivations and behaviours and a valuation of a set of items regarding beach quality. An statistic analysis has been used to segment the different opinion groups. The results suggest that loyal users are more concern with natural beach values and environmental degradation. On the other side, those visitors coming for a short stay are more exigent with the provision of facilities and equipments and do not feel disturbed by overcrowdings.

 


Beach Consequences of an Industrial Heritage:
Future Opportunities for Scotland and Wales, UK?

Michael R. Phillips(1), Robert W. Duck(2) and Allan T. Williams(1,3)

(1) School of Built and Natural Environment, Faculty of Applied Design and Engineering, Swansea Institute (University of Wales), Mount Pleasant, Swansea, Wales, UK. SA1 6ED
Tel: + 44 1792 481106, Fax: +44 (0)1792 651760
E-mail: m.phillips@sihe.ac.uk
(2) Department of Geography, University of Dundee, Nethergate, Dundee, Scotland, UK. DD1 4HN
Tel: + 44 1382 384528, Fax: +44 (0) 1382 386773
E-mail: r.w.duck@dundee.ac.uk
(3) E-mail: allan.williams@virgin.net

Abstract

Consequences of an industrial heritage are described for three east Scotland (Leven, Dysart, and Kirkcaldy) and three South Wales (Swansea, Aberafan and Llanelli) beaches, where significant impacts of past industries have reduced scenic quality and amenity. These six beaches were scenically evaluated by utilisation of a checklist of 26 selected parameters that were subsequently subjected to a fuzzy logic systems approach. Results showed that all were Class 5 and complied with definitions of the classification, that is, “very unattractive urban sites with intensive development and low landscape value”. However, even within this classification beaches can exhibit desirable characteristics and management options were considered to improve low scoring human parameters. Redevelopment of Swansea started in the 1980s culminating in the executive business and residential development of SA1. The former industrial landscape of the Llanelli coastline is currently undergoing regeneration in the hope of becoming a leading tourism destination and Aberafan is similarly reinventing itself with residential and commercial development. Regeneration focused around the Welsh beaches has been successful and there have been considerable economic benefits. Consequently, similar strategies were suggested for Kirkcaldy, Leven and Dysart.

 


Water Management

Significant Water Management Issues
in the Slovene Coastal Area

Monika Peterlin(1), Aleš Bizjak(1,2) and Gorazd Urbanic(1,3)

(1) Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia, 10000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Tel: +386 1 4775 337, Fax: +386 1 4775 343
E-mail: monika.peterlin@izvrs.si
(2) E-mail: ales.bizjak@izvrs.si
(3) E-mail: gorazd.urbanic@izvrs.si

Abstract

The EU Directive 2000/60/EC (Water Framework Directive, hereinafter called WFD) provides national and local authorities with a legislative basis for the maintenance and recovery of surface and ground waters with the aim to achieve good ecological and chemical status and to promote the sustainable use of water by 2015. It applies to all surface freshwater bodies, groundwater, estuaries and coastal waters to one nautical mile and aims to establish a strategic framework for managing the aquatic environment through integrated catchment management.

 

This article presents the steps that need to be taken in Slovenia in order to identify significant water management issues. The following key management issues have been addressed on the national level: organic pollution, nutrient enrichment, hazardous substance pollution, hydromorphological alterations and biological pressures.

 

Methodology for assessment of organic pollution, nutrient enrichment and hazardous substances pollution is presented in this article. Interim overview of significant water management issues in the Slovene coastal area, arising from this scope, is presented.

 


Compliance with Water Rules in the Volga-Caspian Basin

Elena Ostrovskaya(1), Jan Leentvaar(2) and Elena Makarova(3)

(1) Institute for Water Problems RAS, Moscow, Russia
Tel: +7 495 135 5438, Fax: + 495 135 5415
E-mail: eostrovskaya@mail.ru
(2) Water Management Inspectorate, 8200 AB Lelystad, the Netherlands
Tel: + 31 320 299507, Fax: + 31 320 299501
E-mail: Jan.Leentvaar@ivw.nl
(3) Caspian Marine Research Centre, 414045 Astrakhan, Russia
Tel: +7 8512 303470, Fax: +7 8512 301163
E-mail: emakarova75@mail.ru

Abstract

The ecosystem of the Volga River delta and the coastal zone of the Northern Caspian, which is among the most valuable in the world because of high level of its flora and fauna endemism, undergo significant anthropogenic pressure arising from the increasing use of natural resources and inefficient water management. One of the most significant problems is increase in the number of violations of water law and regulations for the last years. The existing system of data collection based on registered officially cases of violations does not enable to reveal causes of non-compliance and develop measures for improving the policy and legislation. Possible ways to increase the enforcement program effectiveness are discussed in the paper.

 


Tourism & Recreation

Sustainable Tourism in the Mediterranean

Željka Škaricic

UNEP Mediterranean Action Plan, Priority Actions Programme Regional Activity Centre (PAP/RAC), Kraj Sv. Ivana 11, 21000 Split, Croatia
Tel: +385 21 340476, Fax:+385 21340490
E-mail: zeljka.skaricic@ppa.htnet.hr

Abstract

Tourism pressures in the Mediterranean, which are expected to grow in the next 20 years, constitute a threat for the unique natural and cultural assets of the region. Therefore, new approaches to the coastal tourism development are needed allowing for the protection of both the environment from deterioration and the tourism industry from collapse. The "Destinations" project, co-financed by LIFE-Third Countries, illustrates one of these new approaches as it seeks to elaborate strategies for sustainable tourism development in the project countries (Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia) based on the Tourism Carrying Capacity Assessment (TCCA) method and the Environmental Management System (EMS) tools.

 


The Ecotourism Potential of the Gulf of Aqaba Coast and South Sinai, Egypt

Sherine Khalil

Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency, Nature Conservation Sector
Tel: +202 27363237, Fax: +202 33444429
E-mail: sherrykhalil@yahoo.com

Abstract

Sinai has enormous tourism potential: historic tourism, religious tourism, military tourism, medical tourism as well as ecotourism. As this paper explores Sinai's tourism potential; our main focus is ecotourism, which is based on the natural attributes of the area mainly. It very briefly reviews the options for: Historical Tourism, Religious Tourism, Military Tourism and Medical Tourism, but the main topic is its tremendous ecotourism potential in the marine environment, the terrestrial environment and the linked coastal ecosystem as well as the South Sinai Mountains.

 

The paper reviews the coral reef and ship wreck diving sites in the Gulf of Aqaba, which is a protected Area, and the five Protected Areas that cover more than 50% of South Sinai: Ras Mohamed National Park, Nabq Managed Resource Protected Area (MRPA), Abu Galum MRPA, Taba Natural Monument, and St. Katherine PA. The ecotourism sites and destinations within the PA's are demonstrated, including other inland cultural accompanying sites from Pharaonic, Nabateen, Roman and Byzantine times as well as Christian and Islamic ancient monuments. Hence this research emphasizes that Sinai is most suited for ecotourism, by virtue of its pristine areas of natural beauty and international significance. The region embraces so wide and varied natural features, terrestrial and aquatic, as well as interesting flora, fauna and avifauna. Mountain chains with their unique geological compositions, extended plains and valleys and various national parks and protected areas. Therefore it deserves to be acknowledged as a worldwide prime ecotourism destination.

 


Alternative Tourism Opportunities for Coastal Area of Turkey

Mükerrem Arslan(1) and Lerzan Y. Erdinç(2)

(1) Ankara University, Faculty of Agriculture Department of Landscape Architecture, 06110 Diskapi, Ankara
Tel: +90 312 596 15 21, Fax: + 90 312 317 64 6
E-mail: Mukerrem.Arslan@agri.ankara.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: lyetim@agri.ankara.edu.tr

Abstract

Turkey, located at the junction of Europe and Asia and it is a peninsula which was surrounded with Black Sea, Mediterranean and Aegean Sea. Turkey has the richness and variety in cultural and in natural resources therefore it is under the effect of mass tourism for a long time. Traditional tourism activities cause some threat on environment. In the recent years, new tourism approaches developed in all around the world. Alternative tourism approaches is one of them. Alternative tourism comes in different names and various models. All tried to stop the onslaught and improve the situation. Some researchers have tried to define alternative tourism as a tourism that gives emphasis to the contact and understanding between the hosts and the tourist, as well as. In this presentation, Turkey’s alternative tourism opportunities will be presented. Coastal area of Turkey will be discussed for its potential in this matter.

 


Evaluation of “Patara Specially Protected Area” in the Frame of Ecotourism

Elmas Erdogan(1) and Lerzan Y. Erdinç(1,2)

(1) Ankara University, Faculty of Agriculture Department of Landscape Architecture 06110 Diskapi, Ankara
Tel: +90 312 5961732, Fax: +90 312 3176467
E-mail: eerdogan@agri.ankara.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: lyetim@agri.ankara.edu.tr

Abstract

“Patara” is one of the “spatial protected areas” of Turkey. Patara has an outstanding landscape character with its flora, fauna and unique archaeological site. Therefore this area is under tourism pressures. Apart from the ruins there is a significant stretch of beach. Ecotourism is the best way for the sustainability of “specially protected areas” because ecotourism, minimizes tourism's own environmental impacts and justification for conservation of biological diversity and cultural diversity, through ecosystems protection. In this study, Patara will be introduced by its natural and cultural landscape values. In this context, Patara will be discussed in terms of its ecotourism potential.

 


Evaluation and Forming of Competitiveness of a Tourist Region

Nataliya Matyushchenko

Sochi State University for Tourism and Recreation,
26-A, Sovetskaya str., Sochi, 354000, Russia
Tel: +7 8622 648 868, Fax: +7 8622 648 884
E-mail: subtropic@mail.ru

Abstract

Research of problems of competitiveness of tourist regions (TR), or health resorts, assumes the analysis of general processes of a competition and maintenance of competitiveness in market conditions. The majority of writers for expression of nature of concept "competitiveness" is used with such features as ability to meet the requirements of buyers, maintenance of advantages before competitors and achievement of an economic efficiency. As to competitiveness of regions Porter M. (1980) marked that is not clear with reference to country what competitiveness us. Further on he attempted to reduce competitiveness of country to efficiency of a resources use. Such view on a problem establishes identity of competitiveness and an economic efficiency. The expression is known, that competitiveness is an ability of country or firm to sell the goods and services. Experts of international organization « The World Economic Forum » mark out a plenty of the economic forces which are working upon competitiveness of economy as a whole. They are included with some hundreds. To them, among others, concern: efficiency of an industry; a degree of market orientation; dynamism of a financial system; human resources; natural resources; socially-political stability, etc.

 


Landscape Study as Basis for Creation of Nature Trails on Russian Black Sea Coast

M. Petrushina(1), A. Glukhov(1,2), E. Kuznetsova(1,3) and V. Matasov(1,4)

(1) Moscow State University, Faculty of Geography, Department of Physical Geography and Landscape Science, Leninskie gory, 1, 119899 Moscow, Russia
Tel: +7-495-9392111, Fax: +7-495-9328836
E-mail: mnpetrushina@mail.ru
(2) E-mail: aldg-gl@rambler.ru
(3) E-mail: kuznetsova-ekaterina@yandex.ru
(4) E-mail: matasoff@mail.ru

Abstract

Development of sustainable tourism and ecological education of inhabitants and guests are among the most important measures of environmental improving all round the world. Creation of nature trails is one of effective tools for involving people especially pupils and youth in active getting knowledge of nature and regional ecological problems. Several possible nature trails of different duration, type and function have been planned in the surroundings of All-Russian children’s Center (ARCC) “Orlyonok” on the coast of the Black Sea on the basis of landscape large-scale mapping and profiling, evaluation of aesthetic features of ecosystems and estimation of recreation digression. High informative features, attractiveness and availability were taken into account as the main criterions for the creation of nature trails. The first education nature trail acquaints pupils with landscape diversity (typical and unique landscapes) and anthropogenic modified ecosystems of the region. The second one gets knowledge of the ecological situation and nature processes activity (sea abrasion, landslides and so on) within the territory of the center. The third trail shows recreants landscapes, history and culture heritage of Agriyskiy reserve.

 


Urbanization

Environmental Profile of a Coastal City, Antalya

Tuncay Neyisci

Akdeniz University Centre for Ecological Studies, Antalya, Turkey
Tel: +90 242 3102091, Fax: +90 242 2275360
E-mail: tneyisci@akdeniz.edu.tr

Abstract

Parallel to a noteworthy increase in negative environmental impacts caused by human activities, the sector which provides remedies to all of these inconveniences is also growing drastically. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that Americans spend more than $200 billion, nearly 3% of the gross national product, a year to control and clean up pollution. Environmental technologies and services producing sector of the world turned to be one of the fastest growing and labor creating industry which controlled almost entirely by the developed and industrialized countries. Current ecological or environmental science is largely a political and/or economic construct, reflecting mostly the values and interests of the developed countries rather than those of developing countries.

 

The developing countries that generally have very limited financial resources, on the other hand, are forced or convinced by these producers to consume their environmental products and services mainly for marketing purposes rather than environmental quality amendments. The export of these environmental technologies and services are further encouraged by some international bodies such as World Bank, European Union, etc. by providing loans. Consequently, setting the economic aspect which is also the most important for developing countries, aside, technologies are sold, resources are depleted but the environmental problems remained almost the same or were not adequately solved. This pure commercial approach to the environmental issues is contradictory to the paradigm of sustainability.

 

During the last two decades, quite a few environmental investments, an incinerator for the disposal of hospital wastes, sanitary sewer, waste water treatment plants, storm sewer, municipal solid waste landfill, etc. which required quite a large budged were realized in Antalya / Turkey. Some of these investments did not function at all, some became inactive after a short while and some were not profitable.

 

This paper will study the effectiveness of all these environmental investments from politic, economic and environmental perspectives and try to draw some conclusions which may be helpful for the future environmental investments of not only Antalya /Turkey but for all developing countries. A special attention will also be paid to the impact of the non-governmental organizations on the planning and realization processes of these investments.

 


Fragmented Cityscapes and Conflicting Land Uses
by the Mediterranean Sea: Experiences from Antalya

M. Selçuk Sayan

University of Akdeniz, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Landscape
Architecture, 07070 Antalya, Turkey
Tel: +90 242 3102448 Fax: +90 242 2274564
E-mail: sayan@akdeniz.edu.tr

Abstract

Urban waterfronts are commonly utilized by commercial, industrial, tourism, governmental, military, residential, recreational and transportation purposes based on the nature of coastline. Location and type of land use depends on the distance from the urban areas. The pressure on the urban waterfronts is high because of the visual, physical and economic value and easy transportation characteristics of these areas. Antalya City is located in the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. As being the leading tourism city, she has faced with population increase and considerable pressure on the land. West section of the city has been under development from almost twenty years. In this period many conflicting land uses existed by the Mediterranean Sea. Apartments, secondary houses, hotels, restaurants, parks and recreation sites, tourist attractions, football fields and sports arena, shopping mall, luna park, conference halls, daily beach facilities, and governmental buildings were designed and sited spontaneously according to the priorities of the local authorities. In Turkey approved development plans dictate the zoning regulations, however can be revised or totally changed by the local authorities. Also Antalya development plan was changed or revised many times; As a matter of fact land uses are conflicted; coastal zone is damaged; landscape of the city is destroyed; public access is affected and ancient ruins are damaged. West section of the City is fragmented in time and an integrated approach should be adopted for a healthy urbanization with taking into account the past experiences and future opportunities.

 


Life Quality of Residential Areas in the Coastal Settlements of Turkey

Nihal Senlier(1), Tayfun Salihoglu(1,2) and Reyhan Yildiz(1,3)

(1) Gebze Institute of Technology, Faculty of Architecture, Department of City and Regional Planning, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 532 291 60 40, Fax: +90 262 653 84 95
E-mail: nsenlier@tnn.net; nsenlier@gyte.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: tsalihoglu@gyte.edu.tr
(3) E-mail: ryildiz@gyte.edu.tr

Abstract

Within the studies for the sustainable development of coastal areas, the urbanization process of the settlements in these areas appears as one of the most important factors of this context. In parallel to this urbanization process, residential areas emerge as one of the main topics that need to be studied.

 

Residential areas are such urban places that human beings spend most of their time. As a result of both the variety of human needs and also of the complex structure and the meaning of the residence and its close proximity that covers many functions, residential areas emerge as the areas taking the biggest share of the urban pollution.

 

Today an examination of the land use of residential areas shows that, as well as houses, many different functions such as schools, parks, business buildings, police stations, religious institutions etc. take place in these areas. Additionally, some basic infrastructure, like drainage systems, water systems, power distribution systems, telephone exchange systems, gas distribution systems and so on, also take place in residential areas.

 

For the sustainability of coastal areas, urban settlements in these areas, and especially the residential areas within these settlements, should be designed, developed, managed, protected and improved, in parallel to the needs and requirements of the residents.

 

In this context, this study will explicate the subjective and objective criterion for livability of residential areas within the coastal settlements, for the purpose of sustainability of these areas. The results of a livability analysis, made in a certain residential area of Kocaeli, Turkey, shall also be submitted and investigated.

 


Ports & Transportation Issues

Port Environmental Management System: A Case Study for Turkey

Gülsüm Aydin(1), Güler Bilen Alkan(1,2) and Necmettin Akten(1,3)

(1) Department of Maritime Transport and Management Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul University, Istanbul/Turkey
Tel: +90 212 47370 70/17534, Fax: +90 212 4737290
E-mail: gulsumaydin@yahoo.com
(2) E-mail: guleralkan2@yahoo.com
(3) E-mail: necmettinakten@yahoo.com

Abstract

Ports are the most important gateways for trade in the world, subject to several activities, inter alia maritime transport, wharehousing, transshipment and marine services. Port development and operations have the potential impact on environmental and human resources. Ports are also major centers of economic activities. At the same time they are major centers of environmental risks and pollution. Ships, and port related activities cause degradation of seawater and the port environment and have significant impacts on land use, health hence the quality of life. The port activities can be divided into two major groups, namely the development activities and operational activities.

 

At present, ports are viewed as the core of national and regional development. They are specifically planned as a strategic means of regional development, and constructed and administered accordingly. As a result, Turkey’s ports function is very significant due to the its geopolitical location as it connects the two continents, Europe to Asia .

 

Although it has long been recognized that ports have a major role to play in environmental protection and sustainable development, and that they are significant components of any coastal zone management system, it is only in recent years that the sector has started to take a collective approach to the common challenges and opportunities posed by environmental concerns.

 

Ports are intended to provide information on environmental issues so that the majority of ports can be able to improve their abilities, with some additional information relevant to specialized operations.

In this context, the following topics will be taken up in this article.
• Importance of Ports,
• General Information on the Environmental Issues and Impacts,
• Underlying Objectives of the Port Environmental Management Standards,
• Self Diagnosis Method,
• Environmental Impacts and Legislation,
• Environmental Policies of the Turkish Ports Sector,
• Environmental Management Tools for Ports and Environmental Management Practice in selected Turkish ports.

 



Effects of Globalization in Maritime Transportation

Serap Incaz(1) and Güler Bilen Alkan(1,2)

(1) Istanbul University, Engineering Faculty, Department of Maritime Transportation and Management Engineering, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: 90 212 473 70 70 Ext. 17630, Fax: 90 212 473 72 90
E-mail: serapincaz@yahoo.com
(2) Tel: 90 212 473 70 70 Ext. 17534, Fax: 90 212 473 72 90
E-mail: guleralkan2@yahoo.com

Abstract

Transportation connects people to jobs, family, medical care, entertainment, education, and the goods needed for everyday life. Quality of life depends on a maritime transportation system that functions well. The maritime sector contributes to the competitiveness of business with effective solutions to the growing mobility of people and goods. In addition, Maritime transportation, similar to land and air modes, operates on its own space, which is at the same time geographical by its physical attributes, strategic by its control and commercial by its usage. While geographical considerations tend to be constant in time, strategic and especially commercial considerations are much more dynamic. Maritime transportation is vital to occur international trade because it can expand all needs of nations. Maritime transportation is a type of transportation that opens completely to international competition and due to this future, a very powerful transportation means. Maritime transportation allows cargo to be transported from areas of low utility to areas of high utility. It also provides carriage of passengers.

 

The maritime world can also be seen as a primary source of trade because it is the medium by which 90 percent of world trade. Globalization is a new trend in world economy, fully influencing maritime transport industry. Globalization and internationalization have added to the integrated nature of systems, but with them have come more complex networks and a larger role for transportation.



This paper examines firstly the nature of globalization and a number of its characteristics and the basic principles of the trading system. After giving general concepts of maritime transportation and globalization, globalization effects in same sector will be explained. Consequently, depending on the above given aspects, the role of Turkey in globalization can be given as an evaluation.

 


Evaluation of Logistics Cost and Turkish Logistics Ports

Serap Incaz

Istanbul University, Engineering Faculty, Department of Maritime Transportation and Management Engineering, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: 90 212 473 70 70 Ext. 17630, Fax: 90 212 473 72 90
E-mail: serapincaz@yahoo.com

Abstract

Logistics, as defined by the Council of Logistics Management, “is that part of the supply chain process that plans, implements and controls the efficient, effective flow and storage of goods, services and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption in order to meet customers’ requirements.”

 

As global logistics becomes a worldwide trend, ports are required to provide users with appropriate logistics solutions. Traditional port services of loading and discharging need to be supplemented in order to meet the sophisticated requirements of global shippers. Modern ports can offer a variety of value added logistics services such as warehousing, assembling, distribution, packaging, labelling, quality control, information and communications as well as accommodation for the institutional players such as banking, customs, freight forwarders, shipping agents, etc. Logistics costs are an important factor affecting the competitiveness of both firms and nations. Firms can enhance their market competitiveness by reducing their logistics costs, thus lowering the total costs of goods and services.



This paper can be analyzed to compare with general logistics cost and port logistics cost. In this paper, the subjects will contained by arranging followings stage: The logistics concept, total cost concept, the port logistics cost, the kind of port logistics cost, comparison of general logistics costs and port logistics cost. Consequently, the situation of Turkey's port logistics cost will be explained.

 


Vulnerability of Haydarpasa Port, Turkey

Bedri Alpar(1), Serap Incaz(2) and Selma Ünlü(1,3)

(1) Istanbul University, Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, 34116, Vefa, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: + 90 212 528 25 39, Fax: + 90 212 526 84 33
E-mail: alparb@istanbul.edu.tr
(2) Istanbul University, Engineering Faculty, 34850 Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: + 90 212 473 70 70 / 17630, Fax: +90 212 473 72 90
E-mail: serapincaz@yahoo.com
(3) E-mail su@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

Damage to ports can have a severe economic effect on a region. In this paper we present an assessment of human-caused hazards and potential natural hazards such as earthquakes and tsunamis to the Haydarpasa Port in Istanbul, which is identified as Turkey’s economic capital, and raise issues for better characterization and quantification of their effects and consequences, resulting administrating and economic losses. Being a gateway to the world this port is highly prone to ground failure and landsliding since the earthquake hazard in the Marmara region is very high. Additional risks are exerted by the loose backfill material behind the quay walls. A local tsunami, generally caused by co-seismic underwater failures in the Sea of Marmara, is another risk factor as its waves can arrive at nearby coastlines in minutes, producing significantly higher run-up, causing extensive damage and loss of life. The financial cost due to probable physical damages, contamination problems and administrating losses during the following years would be more than a few billion US dollars. These facts make the management of industrial risks imperative for the reduction of socioeconomic losses and make necessary an evacuation planning of the port area with the help of new monitoring systems for seismic signal and water level displacement.

 


Fisherman’s Shelters around Çanakkale Strait, Turkey

Mustafa Alparslan(1) and Hasan Baris Özalp(1,2)

(1) Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, 17100 Çanakkale, Turkey
Tel: + 90 286 218 00 18/1534, Fax: + 90 286 218 05 43
E-mail: malparslan@comu.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: jacenzo@yahoo.com

Abstract

Northwestern Turkey is divided by a complex waterway that connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and the Aegean Sea. The Turkish Straits, comprising the Çanakkale Strait, the Strait of Istanbul and the Sea of Marmara and are unique in many respects.



There are 24 fisherman’s shelters around the Çanakkale Strait and have very different structures. The first duty of the fisherman’s shelter is to serve all manner of fishing vessels. The fisherman’s shelters, both for fishery and for the acitivites of the ministry to be fulfilled, have a vital status and importance. Such places not only serve as a sheltering, safekeeping and service area for fisherman’s vessels, but also as the first point to which the fishermen’s catch has been put. Because of these characteristics, the inspectorships done by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs are mostly carried out in these areas. Although our fisherman’s shelters are sufficient in number, some of them need to be developed their infrastructures and superstructures.

 


Living Resources

Marine Fish Resources in Lebanese Coastal Waters

Sami Lakkis(1) and Waad Sabour(2)

(1) Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
Tel: + 9613637877, Fax: + 9619540121
E-mail: slakkis@ul.edu.lb
(2) Tishreen University, Lattakia, Syria
Tel: + 963955731536, Fax: +96341465788
E-mail: t-waad@scs-net.org

Abstract

The Levantine basin, including Lebanese seawaters, is a low productive water body with low nutrient concentrations, showing a low primary productivity rate. Although fish resources are highly diversified, the fisheries activity remains in deficit. All marine organisms, either in plants or animals and microorganisms, are of big importance in the production and transfer of food energy from low trophic level to higher reaching the fish and large vertebrates: mammals and turtles. In addition to the primary production of organic substances and the vital dissolved oxygen, the pelagic micro-algae and benthic macrophytes constitute an important food to the marine herbivorous fish, and invertebrates and small fish constitute the basic food to carnivorous fish.

 

Our survey on the feeding regime study was restricted to few species, the most important and during long-term survey (1995-2005) along the coast of Lebanon. Herbivorous demersal fishes that feed on benthic macroalgae, live near the coast and in shallow water where the algae is available, Among those we have families of gobiidae, siganidae, scaridae, labridae, etc. Other demersal fishes that live near the bottom, on the seafloor and in deep water, are mostly carnivorous. They feed on benthic invertebrates such as mollusks, polychetes, echinoderms, cephalopods, crustaceans etc. Among them we have the sparidae, serranidae, etc. Other demersal fish and benthic feed on small invertebrates living in the rocky bottoms such as mullidae, mugilidae. The same feeding regime is observed in flat fishes which live on the sandy bottom such as: the soleidae, bothidae, cynoglossidae etc., feeding in meiofauna. Pelagic fish such as the sardine and anchovy, they feed on plankton and micronecton living in the mid water. The large pelagic animals which migrate in long distance, such as the thunnidae, scombridae, belonidae, merluciidae, gadidae etc they feed on large pelagic animals such as cephalopods, crustaceans, fishes and many other pelagic species. The stomach and intestine content analysis of any fish species can show the quality and nature of diet and feeding regime of the species. These methods permit also to determine fish resources for each category of fish species.


Fish resources are plenty available in the sea, but the fisheries industry in Lebanon is artisanal, chaotic, and not well managed. The use of illegal mesh net and unsuitable fishing gears, are main reasons for low fishing yield. Because most catch is formed with young fish and before the reproduction maturity, the living stock may be in threat followed by collapsing of the fishery industry. A short-term and long term strategy for the management of the coastal zone and fisheries is necessary in order to avoid urban waste and marine pollution which has negative impact on the fisheries and fish resources.

 


Coastal and Marine Ecology

Spatial Variability in a Posidonia Oceanica Meadow

Maria Cristina Buia(1), Serena Oliva(2) and Valerio Zupo(3)

Stazione Zoologica ‘A. Dohrn’, Benthic Ecology Lab., 80077 Ischia, Italy
Tel: +39-081-5833521, Fax: +39-081-984201
(1) E-mail: mcbuia@szn.it
(2) E-mail: oliva.serena@yahoo.it
(3) E-mail: vzupo@szn.it

Abstract

Spatial ecology is becoming an increasingly important component of resource management, and the use of quantitative data for constructing prognosis maps of the dynamics of ecosystem degradation and restoration by nonlinear simulation methods is a topical field of landscape ecology. Little is known on patterns of variation on a small scale of some parameters of the seagrass Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile, despite their increasing use as indicators of the status of meadows. A cartographic method based on a stochastic interpolator (kriging) was applied to the P. oceanica meadow off Lacco Ameno (Island of Ischia - Gulf of Naples, Italy), extended between 1 and 33 m depth, to detect spatial and temporal patterns of meadow structure and functioning at a small scale. The meadow architecture, plant size, plant growth and algal epiphyte assemblages were investigated. Nestlike structures with a rounded shape and exhibiting an increase of values towards the centre were obtained for several parameters. The analysis detected various degrees of patchiness, in particular between shallow (down to 10 m depth) and deep stands. A good overlapping between structural and biological models was found, indicating that the shape of the sea bottom may affect the complexity and dynamics of the P. oceanica system. In contrast, the decrease of spatial anisotropy over a decadal time scale may be interpreted as a result of the anthropic impacts affecting the clonal growth patterns of this species.

 


Evaluation of the Pah Contamination of Posidonia Oceanica

Céline Labbé(1), Christine Pergent-Martini(2), Roger Kantin(3),
and Gérard Pergent(1,4)

(1) University of Corsica, Faculty of Sciences, Equipe Ecosystèmes Littoraux, BP 52, 20250 Corte, France
Tel: +33 4 95 45 00 75, Fax: +33 4 95 46 24 41
E-mail: labbe@univ-corse.fr
(2) PNUE - PAM - CAR/ASP 1080 Tunis, Tunisia
Tel: +216 71 206 649 / 485, Fax: +216 71 206 490
E-mail: christine.pergent@rac-spa.org
(3) IFREMER, 83507 La Seyne-sur-Mer, France
Tel: +33 04 94 30 44 23
E-mail: Roger.Kantin@ifremer.fr
(4) E-mail: pergent@univ-corse.fr

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are recognized as priority pollutants. While plants are widely used for studying PAH contamination in terrestrial environments, few studies have been carried out in aquatic environments. In the marine environment, the few available data on organisms’ contamination are on molluscs (mussels). The magnoliophyta Posidonia oceanica is currently used as a metal contamination bio-indicator. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relevance of Posidonia oceanica as PAH contamination bio-indicator. Thus, 15 PAH were measured in Posidonia oceanica leaves in four sites presenting different levels of human impact. The results show a relation between several PAH concentrations and anthropogenic impact. Moreover, the origin of the contamination can be identify thanks to the ratio of several PAH (pyrolytic or petrogenic origin). Finally, with a comparison of the PAH concentration recorded in mussels for the same site, this study highlights the relevance of Posidonia oceanica as an interesting tool in the evaluation of the PAH contamination in coastal environment.

 


Environmental Conditions of the Suez Gulf and the Red Sea Coastal Waters, Egypt

Ehsan M. Abo-El-Khair(1), Ahmed M. Abdel-Halim, Mohamed A. Shreadah and Mamdouh A. Fahmy(2)

(1) National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +20103427058, Fax: +2034801553
(2) E-mail: sonia111955@yahoo.com

Abstract

The environmental information and monitoring programme (EIMP) was established to provide and evaluate the background picture of water quality for the Gulf of Suez and Red Sea coastal waters extending for about 850 Km. The northern side of the Gulf of Suez is receiving heavy load of waste water from industrial sources (mainly petrochemicals, fertilizers, power station, etc.) and sewage effluents. Whereas the human impacts on the eastern (Sinai penensiula) and southern (El-Tour city) sides are still insignificant due to the low population there. The Red Sea area is apparently subjected to the rapid and increasing levels of human activities due to the recreational (swimming and diving), industrial (mainly phosphate shipping and industry) and fishing activities. Within the framework of this programme, five to six field campaigns were carried out annually during the period of 1998 -2004. Twenty eight stations were selected to represent the spatial and temporal activities existing in these regions. Physico-chemical characteristics and nutrient salts were used as indicators to evaluate the quality of their coastal waters. The obtained results indicated that the change in salinity and pH values were insignificant with highly oxygenated seawaters. The levels of total suspended matter, chlorophyll-a, nitrogen, phosphorus and reactive silicate registered low concentrations (except the northern part of Gulf of Suez) to the extent made the Gulf of Suez and Red Sea coastal waters classified as oligotrophic to mesotrophic state. Except the northern side of the Suez Gulf which classified into eutrophic waters due to the continuous discharge of sewage and industrial effluents into these regions. The rate of eutrophication changes in this side showed a slight decrease with time. The region located between Safaga and Quseir displayed relatively high phosphate contents, especially during the first five years of investigation, as compared with the other coastal regions. With the exception of this area, the high values of N : P ratios indicated that PO4-P is the limiting nutrient for phytoplankton growth in the Suez Gulf and Red Sea coastal waters. Based on the present study, the Suez Gulf and Red Sea waters along the Egyptian Coast is still free of eutrophication problems except the northern side of Suez Gulf in spite of the rapid developments taken place on to this area during the previous ten years.

 


Water Masses and Phosphorus Transportation along the Egyptian Coast of the Nile Delta

M.A. Said(1) and A. El-Saharty(1,2)

(1) National Institute of Oceanography & Fisheries, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2 0123779117, Fax: +203 4801174
E-mail: mamsaid2@hotmail.com
(2) Tel: +2 0106635383, Fax: +203 4801174
E-mail: saharty@yahoo.com

Abstract

The experimental area, which is the Egyptian Mediterranean Coast off the Nile Delta, lying between longitudes 29o 30' and 33oE and extends northward to latitude 32o 30'N covering about 300 km by 150 km grid. The data used in this study were collected during the joint Russian-Egyptian expeditions on the Russian RV "Academic Lavrentiev" during winter 1989 and "Professor Bogorov" which took place during winter 1990.

 

Four water masses could be observed during the present study. The surface water mass of temperature range 16-17°C, salinity maximum 39 - >39.2 and st values between 28.7-28.8 is observed. It occupies the upper 200-250m layer and has PO4 concentration range of 0.1-0.15 µmole/l. The Levantine intermediate water mass identified by a salinity range 38.9-39.0 occupies depths between 250 and 400m. This water mass has a temperature range of 14.5-16°C and density ~29st and PO4 0.15-0.20 µmole/l. Between 400 and 700m a mid-depth water mass of temperature 13.8-14.5°C, salinity range 38.80-38.90 and density ~29.1st is observed. The concentrations values of PO4 in this layer are homogenous around ~0.25 µmole/l. Below 1000m down to the bottom, the deep water mass of temperature range 13.58-13.80°C, salinity 38.65-38.75 and density >29.15st is observed. This bottom layer is characterized by higher concentrations of PO4 (>0.30 – 40 µmole/l).

 

Water flux and phosphorus concentrations and transportation are mainly discussed in relation to the upper 50m layer (mixed layer) off the Nile Delta because the water mass of the upper 50m has different characteristics from that below. Phosphorus transported to the area from west accounts to 399.6 tons/day, while 313.7 tons/day is transported from the east and 1236.9 tons/day from the north. The amount of phosphorus transported to the sea through rain is estimated to be 7.14 tons/day. Phosphorus flux from the south plays the most important role, it reaching 1789.8 tons/day. The downward phosphorus transport amounts to 2849.4 tons/day.

 


Zooplankton Abundance and Biomass in the Coastal Waters of Alexandria, Egypt

Howaida Y. Zakaria

National Institute of Oceanography & Fisheries (NIOF), Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2 0127522926 , Fax: +2 034801174
E-mail: howaidazakaria@hotmail.com

Abstract

Quantitative and qualitative studies of zooplankton community were performed bimonthly in the coastal area west of Alexandria from March 2005 to January 2006. Fifteen stations were selected to represent the different habitats in the study area. The study area receives a heavy load of waste waters through El-Umum and El-Nubaria drains consisting of domestic, industrial and agricultural wastes.

 

The results indicated that the highest average zooplankton count was recorded during May (43.135×103 ind.m-3), while the minimum value was 5.363×103 ind.m-3 in March, with an annual average of 18.229×103 ind.m-3. Protozoa, Copepoda and Rotifera were the most dominant zooplankton groups in the study area constituting 32.87%, 30.35% and 25.61% of the total zooplankton crop respectively.

 

Zooplankton community in the study area was represented by 115 taxa, out of them 55 Protozoa species, 30 Crustacaea (22 Copepoda, 4 Cladocera, one species of Ostracoda, one species of Amphipoda and 2 species of Decapoda), and 22 Rotifera. Besides one species of Cnidaria, 6 Appendicularia and one species of Chaetognatha. The recorded fresh water species were widely distributed at the near shore stations which affected by the wastewater discharge.



Shannon's Diversity Index indicated that, the low species diversity was found in the near shore waters, while the greatest diversity occurred at the offshore waters.

 



The Role of Sediment Pore Waters in the Fertility of Rosetta Estuary of River Nile, Egypt

Mamdouh A. Fahmy(1) and E. M. Abo Elkhair

(1) National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Anfoushi,
Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +20103427058, Fax: +2034801553
Email: sonia111955@yahoo.com

Abstract

Due to the construction of Aswan High Dam at 1964, the annual means of discharged Nile water through Damietta and Rosetta Estuaries, into the Mediterranean Sea was sharply decreased from 42.9 x109 to less than 1.00 x 109 m3 before and after the damming construction leading to a considerable drop in the amount of nutrients, fish production in addition to the change in the hydrographical features of the Mediterranean waters off the Egyptian Coast. Recently, a noticeable increase in the amount of fish production in spite of lacking the discharged Nile water into the sea was observed. Such increase in the fertility was suggested to be as a result of the anthropogenic effects from land based sources which replaced the nutrients of fresh Nile waters. Such condition attracted the attention of scientists to follow up the changes in water quality of the Rosetta Estuary and adjoining Mediterranean Sea from one side and to evaluate the impacts of these changes on the fertility of water column from the other side. Accordingly, the present investigation was undertaken to study the concentrations of dissolved nitrogen, phosphorus and silicate in both bottom sediment pore waters and corresponding overlying water column at different sites of Rosetta Estuary and adjoining Mediterranean waters during seasonal cruises. In order to evaluate to what extent it may contribute in the fertility of water layers of these regions. The present study demonstrated that, the benthic fluxes lead to a considerable increase in the concentrations of nitrate, ammonium, phosphate and silicate in the corresponding overlying water column. This could be responsible for the increasing fertility of the investigated regions rather than those of the anthopogenic effects. Factors affecting the mechanism of nutrient diffusion were investigated.

 



Assessment of Marine Bottom Fauna at Damietta Port, Eastern Mediterranean

H.M. Moustafa(1), M. M. Atta(2), A. A. El Sammak(1) and M. A. Sarawi(2)

(1) Department of Oceanography, Faculty of Science, University of Alexandria, Moharam Bay 21511, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: + 203 484 3172, Fax: + 203 391 794
E-mail: hmostafa2000@yahoo.com
(2 Faculty of Science, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences,
Kuwait University
E-mail: sarawi@wes.com.kw

Abstract

The present paper is part of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the new extension of Damietta Port. The main target of the study is to identify the distribution of different marine benthic communities in relation to different impacts affecting these communities. Damietta Harbor is affected mainly from loading/unloading operations, untreated municipal and agricultural wastes resulting from Damietta Governorate. Marine bottom fauna was sampled in August 2006 from eight stations using van veen grab sampler. For each station, samples were sieved, sorted, analyzed and identified. The physicochemical parameters measured during sampling indicated healthy conditions except for suspected eutrophication problem at the southern part of the Port. The dark clayed silt and /or mud dominated the whole sampling stations. Generally the species diversity was low as reflected by Polychaetes, Mollusca, Crustacea and Nematods only. It is most likely that the nature of the bottom sediments may determine to great extent the species composition and abundance of bottom animals.

 



Is the Benthic Assemblage of Meiofauna Affected by the Heavy Metal Pollutants?

Hanan M. Mitwally(1), Ahmed Khadr(1,2), Ahmed M. Badr ElDin(1,3), Ashraf M. Samir(5), Mahmoud Kh. El-Sayed(1,4), and Mohamed El Sabarouti(1)

(1) University of Alexandria, Faculty of Science, Oceanography Department
Tel: 00/203/48 43171/172, Fax: 00/203/39 11 794
Email: h_mitwally@yahoo.com,
(2) E-mail: amedkhadr@yahoo.com
(3) E-mail: ahmedbadeldin@yahoo.com
(4) E-mail: mkhsayed@link.net
(5) University of Alexandria, Faculty of Science, Geology Department
Tel: 00203/59 22 352/682, Fax: 00/203/39 11 794
E-mail: ashraf_23_eg@yahoo.com

Abstract

The spatial, vertical distribution, community structure of meiofauna and nematode/harpacticoide-copepode ratio (N/C ratio) were studied in conjunction with organic matter, grain size, total carbonate, Zinc, and Copper to investigate the response of benthic communities to heavy metals pollution. A total of 159 samples were taken from the polluted Eastern harbor site (EH) and 72 samples from the reference El Montaza Bay (MB) during August 2002 and September 2003 respectively. The mean total meiofaunal abundance differed significantly among profiles and within stations at the Eastern harbor and the Montaza Bay. By an order of magnitude, the abundance was lower among the peripheral profiles at EH than at MB and vise versa was observed among central stations. Meiofaunal vertical distribution decreased with depth at the EH and increased at MB. Meiofaunal community structure consisted of ten and twelve taxa at the Eastern Harbor and the Montaza Bay, respectively and was dominated by Foraminifera. At the polluted site (EH), statistical results revealed positive linear relation between meiofauna and sedimentological factors as well as with Zn whereas the negative relation was detected with total carbonate and Cu. At the reference site, all the factors loaded positively on PC1. The N/C ratio was high at the EH probably due to high contamination (high %O.M, Cu and Zn). The present work revealed that the relationship between meiofaunal abundances, Cu and Zn differed in sign and magnitude indicating that high load of organic matter might decrease the danger of toxicity of Zn and Cu on benthic communities and vise versa.

 


Dissolved Oxygen (Do) and Total Suspended Solid (TSS) Changes in the Gökova Bay, Turkey

Erdogan Okus(1), Abdullah Aksu(2), Nuray Balkis(3) and Mahmut S. Ersan(4)

(1) Istanbul University, Institute of Marine Sciences and Management,
Department of Physical Oceanography and Marine Biology,
Vefa 34470, Istanbul, TURKEY
Tel: +902124400000/26040, Fax: +902125268433
E-mail: erokus@istanbul.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: aksu_abdullah@istanbul.edu.tr
(3) E-mail: nbal@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the dissolved oxygen (DO) and total suspended solid (TSS) changes along the Gökova Bay waters. DO and TSS contents were measured in the both surface and deep waters at total 16 stations of Gökova Specially Protected Area. The highest DO concentrations were observed in the upper water in May 2006 and in the lower water in June 2006 whereas the lowest value was measured in June 2005. The highest values in the upper water were especially connected with the primary production. The reason of the higher values in the deep water was the increasing solubility of oxygen in colder water. The highest TSS contents were found in the both surface and upper part of the water column in the bay. These results suggested the terrestrial (domestic + industrial) inputs via the rivers.

 


Evaluation of Spawning Areas in Gökova Specially Protected Area

A. Yüksek(1), E. Okus, I.N. Yilmaz, A.A. Yilmaz,
S.Ü. Karhan, N. Demirel and V. Demir

Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, Istanbul University, Muskule Sok. No: 1 Vefa Eminonu 34116 Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 5196788, Fax: +90 212 5268433
(1) E-mail: ayuksek@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

The Gökova SPA had a rather rich juvenile fish community, observed during dives. The post larvae and juveniles of the species laying eggs in the winter and spring were observed to distribute on the shore in the beginning of the summer. It could be seen in the distribution map that the fish larvae was densely distributed at Börtübed, stream mouths and Akbük.

 

The results of the study enabled authorities to forbidden a great percent of Gokova Bay to large scale fishing activities (purse-seines), besides traditional fishing has also been banned at the nursery grounds of the sandbar shark. It was also pleasing to frequently observe the juveniles of groupers, whose population was diminished, densely between Bördübet Inlet-Tuzlatan Cape, it was proposed that those locations should be protected against habitat destruction and fishing.

 


Ichthyoplankton Distribution in Datca-Bozburun Specially Protected Area

E. Okus(1), A. Yüksek(1,2), I.N. Yilmaz(1), A.A. Yilmaz(1),
S.Ü. Karhan(1), N. Demirel(1) and V. Demir(1)

(1) Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, Istanbul University, Muskule Sok. No: 1 Vefa Eminonu 34116 Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 5196788, Fax: +90 212 5268433
(2) E-mail: ayuksek@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

Comparing the findings on fish eggs and larvae with phytoplankton findings, it is seen that the density and the diversity is higher at stations of Hisarönü Gulf and Yesilova Gulf, rich in terms of organic substances. Thus, this circumstance causes increase in planktonic activities.

 

According to this study, the high level alive eggs and larval development observed in the pointed out to the suitability of the region for development of the eggs and larvae. Particularly existence of well protected bays at the region serving as shelter accumulates food and keeps the water circulation at appropriate levels for development of larva increase the importance of the region for ichthyoplankton.

 


Studies on Ecological Investigations around Coastal Structures at Southern Taiwan

Ching-Her Hwang(1), S-M Lin(1,2), C-P Tsai(1,3), L-H Tsai(1,4),
C-S Chen(1,5)and Wen-Chin Lin(1,6)

(1) Director, Department of Civil Engineering,
Chienkuo Technology University, No.1, Chieh Shou N. Rd.,
Changhua City 500, Taiwan
Tel: 886- 4 -7111140, Fax: 886- 4 - 7111165
E-mail: chhwang@ctu.edu.tw
(2) E-mail: smlin@cc.ntou.edu.tw
(3) E-mail: cptsai@dragon.nchu.edu.tw
(4) E-mail: salii@mail.ihmt.gov.tw
(5) E-mail: ccs@tfm.unina.it
(6) E-mail: lwch@ctu.edu.twt

Abstract

In this study, we intend to investigate the methods which consider both the engineering but also the ecological problems in shore protection. And as we know, both the groin breakwater and the detached breakwater were usually considered in engineering. Then, we concentrate our investigations on marine ecology at the outlet of Dai-Peng Bay and Ling-Ping coastal area in southern Taiwan. Three seasonal investigations were made for monitoring seaweed attachment and abundance on the shore artificial structures or shaped concrete blocks in mid-February, mid-May and early August respectively. Twenty species of seaweeds in total were found, among them, the green alga Ulva fasciata was the most abundant species in the first two investigations. The seaweeds found in this study were mostly attaching on the top or any sides of the man-made concrete stones, in which were exposed to sunlight. The results of both the ecological inquisition and the analysis between their environmental factors and ecological effects are presented also in this paper.

 


Marine Biology, Chemistry & Biochemistry

New Colonial Ascidian, Aplidium Nordmanni, Recorded in Tunisia (Mediterranean Sea)

N. Chebbi(1), F. Mastrottotaro(2) and H. Missaoui(3)

(1) Département halieutique, Institut National Agronomique de Tunis (INAT), 43 Avenue Charles Nicole 1083 Tunis, Tunisie
Tel: +216 22542823
E-mail: nadia.chebbi@gmail.com
(2) Departamento di zoologia, Univesita degli studi di Bari, Italia
Tel: +390805443355
E-mail: f.mastrototaro@biologia.uniba.it
(3) Institut Supérieur de la pêche et de l’Aquaculture de Bizerte (ISPAB), Tunisie
Tel: +216 98336998
E-mail: missaoui.hechmi@inat.agrinet.tn

Abstract

The ascidians studies in Mediterranean Sea are few. During the 70, 80 and 90 years the interest of ascidians study had important and these studies interested the north coast of Mediterranean Sea. In despite, the studies in the south coast were rarely. Indeed, in the Tunisian coast, only Pérès in the 1954 and 1956 interested of the ascidians studies. Since this years, the scientific research were demonstrating the importance of some ascidians species in medical research and the ascidians studies has token back in the Mediterranean Sea. The Tunisian coast represent like others coast in south Mediterranean an “?” in ascidians studies. For this reason and to fill the empty, we were interesting of the ascidian study in Tunisian coast. Among the species founded in Tunisia, Aplidium nordmanni represent a particularly species. Indeed, the colonial ascidian, Aplidium nordmanni Milne Edawards 1843, has broadcasted along of European coast both Atlantic and Mediterranean.


This specie, rare in Mediterranean Sea, was founding in Spain per Turon in 1987, 1988 and 1990 in Catalane coast and Balears islands, in France per Mediouni in 1970 in Banyuls sur mer and per Gail in 1972 in Roscoff and in Italian coast per Tursi in 1980. Aplidium nordmanni is collected for the first time in Tunisia during the campaigns with have aiming to make an ascidians inventory along the Tunisian coast. This specie was collected by hand in scuba diving exactly in Sidi Raïs (Gulf of Tunis) and Hammamet (Gulf of Hammamet) between January and December 2006. A. nordmanni was founded on stony bottoms, rock and Posidonia herbaria at depths going from 1 to 18 m. During the period of investigation, the salinity varied between minimum 37,2 ‰ (January 2006) and maximum 37,6 ‰ (August, 2006) and the temperature between 10 °c (January 2006) and 26°c (August, 2006). A nordmanni presents more variability as well spatial (according to the depths and geographical distribution) as temporal.

 


Histology and Ultrastructure of the Corpuscles of Stannius in Oreachromis niloticus and Epinephelus tuvina (Teleosts)

Saydah H. Abdel-Aziz(1), Suzan B.S. Abdu(2), Amany M.Osman(1,3) and Huda F. Fouad(2,4)

(1) Oceanography Dept., Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Egypt
Tel: +2 03 4843172, Fax: +2 03 5435956
E-mail: mero_1951983@yahoo.com
(2) Zoology Department, Girls College, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Tel: 966558547419, Fax: 010223654
E-mail: Sabdu@yahoo.com
(3) E-mail: amosman88@yahoo.com
(4) E-mail: dr_huda@gmail.com

Abstract

The corpuscles of Stannius (CS) are numerous spherical- bodies like glands located in the middle and caudal part of the dorsal region of the mesonephric (trunk) kidney in tilapia, Oreachromis niloticus .In grouper, Epinephelus tuvina, CS are a single pair of corpuscles located on the dorso- caudal part of the trunk kidney and associated with the distal portion of the tubular nephrons. Histologically, each CS was encapsulated in highly vascularised connective tissue and divided into lobes and lobules of cells of variable appearance. Ultrastructural examination of the glands, demonstrated two structurally different types of gland cells in tilapia and grouper displayed cytological features typical of protein producing cells. The dark ( Type I ) and light (Type II) cells are numerically different and differ in size and amount of secretory granules and amount of rough endoplasmic reticulum. The secretory granules appear to originate at the Golgi cisternae and exocytosis into intercellular spaces between cells and to blood vessels are also evident in the two cell types. CS of salt water grouper is more active than in fresh water tilapia. CS are highly innervated by unmyelinated nerve fibers mainly in grouper suggesting a functional link between neurotransmitters and CS cells.

 


Chromaffin Cells and Interrenal Tissue in the Head Kidney of the Grouper (Teleosts, Serranidae)

Saydah H. Abdel-Aziz(1), Suzan B.S. Abdu(2),
Tamer El-Sayed Ali(1,3) and Huda F. Fouad(2,4)

(1) University of Alexandria, Faculty of Science, Oceanography Department
Moharem Bey, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2 03 4843172, Fax: +2 03 3911794
E-mail: mero_1951983@yahoo.com
(2) Zoology Department, Girls Collage of Education, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Tel: 966558547419, Fax: 010223654
E-mail: sabdu@yahoo.com
(3) E-mail: tameraly@yahoo.com
(4) E-mail: dr_huda@gmail.com

Abstract

This work presents the distribution, histology and ultrastructure of chromaffin cells (CCs) and interrenal tissue (It) in the head kidney of Epinephilus tuvina.

 

Chromaffin cells are endocrine cells, found in small groups under the endothelium of the posterior cardinal vein (PCV) and its branches which involved the head kidney, and mostly closely associated with the interrenal tissue. Ultrastructure examination confirmed the existence of two main chromaffin cell types, distinguished by different types of secretory granules. The first type was characterized by the presence of vesicles with round, strongly electron dense core granules, which were eccentrically located. Such cells were interpreted as noradrenaline cells. Meanwhile, cells with vesicles that were completely electron lucent or containing small less dense eccentric granules were identified as adrenaline cells. Many unmyelinated nerve axons emerged from nerve bundle invading the clusters of chromaffin cells. Nerve endings were invaginated into the chromaffin cells through synaptic junctions. Interrenal tissue consisted of nests, cords or strands of cells in contact with the PCV and interposed with haemopoietic tissue.

 

Ultrastructure analysis has revealed only one interrenal cell type, which contains abundant smooth endoplasmic reticulum (sER) and numerous mitochondria with tubulo-vesicular cristae, characteristics of steroid-producing cell. The interrenal tissue cells have different cytological aspects that can be linked to a steroidogenic cell cycle allowing a periodical renewal of organelles.

 


Biological Studies of Spicara smaris (Teleostei: Centracanthidae) in Egyptian Mediterranean Waters

Amany M. Osman(1) and Abdel Barr M.(1,2)

(1) Department of Oceanography, Faculty of Science,
Alexandria University, Egypt
Tel: +2 03 4843172, Fax: +2 03 5435956
E-mail: amosman88@yahoo.com
(2) E-mail: mabdelbarr@yahoo.com

Abstract

Age, growth, mortality rates and virtual population analysis of Spicara smaris from Mediterranean waters off Alexandria were computed using data on length and catch, collected from landing centers of Alexandria. Total length ranged from 9.5 to 18.8 cm, while total weight varied between 7 and 79 gm. The Von Bertalanaffy growth equation was fitted on the basis of mean length at age data resulting in parameter values of L 8 = 22.68, k= 0.131 and to = -3.692. Weight increased allometrically in this species with b= 3.167. Total mortality was found to be 0.69 per year, the natural mortality 0.44 per year while the fishing mortality was 0.25 per year. VPA showed a decrease of population number and an increase in the fishing mortality with age and length. There was an increase in the catch up to the length group (13.5 cm) after that it decreased with increase of the fish size. The biomass also increased with length up to length group (12.5cm) and then decreased with length.

 


Bio-Control of Some Fish Pathogens using Marine Burkholderia cepacia by-product

Manal M. A. El-Naggar(1), Saffinaz Gomaa(2),Yousry M. Gohar(3), Khouloud M. Barakat(1) and Magdy K. Soliman(4)

(1) Microbiology Lab., National Institute of Oceanography & Fisheries, Alex.
Tel: 034275403, Fax: 034801173
E-mail: melnaggar66@yahoo.com
(2) Dept. of Aquatic Pathology Lab., National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Alexandria
Tel: 034807140, Fax: 034801173
E-mail: elzahra2002@hotmail.com
(3) Microbiology Section, Botany Dept., Faculty of Science, Alex. University
Tel: +0124731371
E-mail: ymgohar@yahoo.com
(4) Fish Diseases and Hygiene Faculty of Veterinary Medicine El Bostan (Damnhour Branch), Alexandria University
Tel: +0122270909, Fax: 035853308

Abstract

Burkholderia cepacia isolated from El-Mex bay, Alexandria- Egypt, was found to produce extracellular antimicrobial crude using 1.2x108 CFU/ml. It showed a potent activity against some fish pathogens (Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda and Vibrio ordalli). Ethyl acetate extract was superior over other organic solvents. Growth and production parameters including pH, temperature and inoculum size were optimized. The hemolytic effect of the three pathogens was in vitro examined and found to reduce hemolysis of the three pathogens by 53% for A. hydrophila and 20% for E.tarda and V. ordalii. The bio-toxicity of the crude extract showed a slight toxicity against the brine shrimp (Artemia salina) where the observed L.C50 was 1023mg/l crude extract. The bioactivity of B. cepacia crude extract was in vivo tested for two weeks to control the action of these three pathogens using the monosex tilapia as a model. The infection was carried out separately by inter-peritoneal injecting doses of 0,2 ml of the pervious pathogen suspensions (108 CFU/ml) in monosex tilapia and the treatment was carried out using 2mg ethyl acetate crude extract corresponding to the previous pathogen dose. The infected fish with A. hydrophila showed 50% mortality after 2 weeks whereas those infected with the other two pathogens E. tarda and V. ordalli survived with signs including loss of pigmentation in all the body, opacity of the eyes in addition to the eye cataract. The bio-control using the crude extract in combination with these virulent pathogens was found to be for certain extent prophylactic and curative.

 


Optimum Feeding Rates for Nile Tilapia and Effects of Ration Restriction on its Compensatory Growth

Tamer El Sayed Ali(1), Andres Moñino(2), Ana Tomás(2,3)
and Miguel Jover(2,4)

(1) University of Alexandria, Faculty of Science, Oceanography Department, Moharem Bey, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2-03-4843172, Fax: +2-03-3911794
E-mail: tameraly@yahoo.com
(2) Animal Science Department, Polytechnic University of Valencia,
Camino de Vera s/n, Valencia, Spain
Tel: +34-96-3877430, Fax: +34-96-3877439
E-mail: amonino@dca.upv.es
(3) E-mail: atomas@dca.upv. es
(4) E-mail: mjover@dca.upv.es

Abstract

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings weighing 1.33 ± 0.15 g were fed at certain ration levels (10%, 9%, 8% and 7% of their body weights per day), these ration levels were decreased stepwise during the experimental period according to the fish size, this restriction feeding period lasted for 86 days. Then the fish were subjected to satiation feeding twice a day throughout 15-days period to study the effect of this re-feeding period on the compensatory growth of the fish. The results obtained from the first period of the experiment were analyzed with a multiple regression considering the partial data of specific growth rate (SGR), feed intake (FI) and initial body weight (IW) from all samplings and the best model has been developed to estimate the optimum feeding rate are:

 

SGR = -4.43019 + 3.49118 FI – 0.305407 FI2 + 0.110555 IW – 0.0384116 IW * FI

 

After the re-feeding period, actual body weights (BW) of tilapia that were fed restricted ration levels were still significantly lower than those of the control group, this due to the lower capacity of Nile tilapia to compensate completely the growth. Although the weight gain (WG) and SGR were not presented significant differences between the different treatments, better feed conversion ratio (FCR) was achieved by fish subjected to restricted feeding during the first period. All the results of these parameters (BW, WG, SGR and FCR) indicate that a partial compensatory growth has been occurred in Nile tilapia during the satiation feeding period.

 


Stock Valuation for Spicara Smaris in Mediterranean Waters off Alexandria

M.A. Abdel Barr(1) and M. Osman Amany(1,2)

(1) Department of Oceanography, Faculty of Science,
Alexandria University, Egypt
Tel: 02 03 4843172, Fax: 02 03 5435956
E-mail: mabdelbarr@yahoo.com
(2) E-mail: amosman88@yahoo.com

Abstract

Yield per recruit (Y/R) and Biomass per recruit (B/R) models were used as tools for evaluation the stock of Spicara smaris in Alexandria waters. The analysis showed that F0.1, FSB(40) and FSB(50) as well as the threshold level, FSB(25) are higher than the current level of fishing mortality, which is also lower than the fishing mortality of maximum Y/R. at the current level of fishing mortality the B/R is 55.4% of the virgin biomass. These may indicate the healthy state of the fisheries of S. smaris in Alexandria waters. To increase the Y/R of the S. smaris the present study suggests adopting the FSB(50) strategy.

 


Coatings Containing Marine Natural Products for Bacterial Slime Film Control

Aida B. Tadros(1) and Manal M. A. El-Naggar(2)

(1) Marine Chemistry Lab., Marine Environmental Division, National Institute
of Oceanography and Fisheries, Alex., Egypt
Tel: 203 4807138, Fax: 203 4801174
E-mail: BT_AIDA@yahoo.com
(2) Microbiology Lab., Marine Environmental Division, National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Alex., Egypt
Tel: 203 4807138, Fax: 203 4801174
E-mail: melnaggar66@yahoo.com

Abstract

Antifouling coatings are designed specifically to control marine growth and maintain ship hulls in a smooth and hydro-dynamically efficient condition. The aim of the present study is to develop reliable and environmentally acceptable alternative to organotin compounds used as antifoulants in some marine paint formulations. Three trials have been carried out to assess the effect of green algae (Ulva sp) and algae free lipid on aerobic and anaerobic marine bacterial communities in both field and laboratory scales. Trial (1): Three different concentrations of algae free lipid 10%, 15% and 25% by weight were incorporated with binder material individually and applied on unprimed steel panels forming a total of three coatings in addition to the blank B. The coated surfaces were biologically investigated by detecting the dry weights of the heterotrophic and some anaerobic bacterial communities in three replicates. The steel coated surface with 15% algae free lipid in the dry paint film showed the lowest heterotrophic bacterial adhesion %. The same coated panel showed also the highest inhibition % for the anaerobic bacteria. Trial (2): Two marine paint formulations were prepared based on algae and algae free lipid. Both were added as effective pigment with 10% by weight in the dry paint film applied on unprimed steel panels. The coated surfaces were inspected biologically. The paint surface contains algae free lipid showed lowest adhesion of the heterotrophic and the anaerobic bacteria respect to the blank coated surfaces. Trial (3): three marine paint formulations were prepared. The first formulation contains algae with 15% AFa-15 in the dry paint film and the other two formulations were based on two different concentrations of algal extract in the same blend of solvents used in preparation of paint vehicle. The impact of the leached components on some marine environmental parameters was assessed. Coated surface contains algae with 15 % showed the highest % of anaerobic inhibition within the prepared series and has a moderate effect against the heterotrophic bacteria. The inhibition% of heterotrophic bacteria by algal extract increases by increasing the initial amount of algae.

 


Distribution of CO2 Surface Partial Pressure and Air - Sea CO2 Flux in El Mex Bay Alexandria, Egypt

Thanaa H. Mahmoud(1), Mamdouh S. Masoud(2) and Nayrah A. Shaltout(1)

(1) National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Quitbay, Alexandria
E-mail: Nayrahshaltout@yahoo.com
(2) Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria, Egypt

Abstract

The partial pressure of CO2 and air –sea fluxes were determined monthly during 2003-2004 in El-Mex Bay. It is shallow sheltered Estuary west of Alexandria. Surface water partial pressure of CO2 was varied largely between 9464.2 – 0.6 ?atm. Its distribution was controlled by complex combinations of different factors such as volume and water quality of discharged waste water from different land based sources, biological activity, physical mixing processes, and fresh water residence time. El-Mex Bay surface water was found in most cases oversaturated with respect to the atmosphere and its saturation percentages were ranged between 0.16 - 2487.85 %.

 

The calculated water- atmosphere CO2 flux showed a clear dependence on salinity. Water type L which is brackish water with S<10 showed an annual average CO2 flux to the atmosphere 148.54 mmol m-2day-1, while the flux in water type M which is mixed sea water with land drainage water type with salinity ranges 10


Environmental Monitoring

Sustainable Development and Monitoring in the Mediterranean Sea – Egypt

Gehan M. El-Sakka(1) and Ahmed Abu El Soud(1,2)

(1) EE AA, 30 Misr Helwan Agriculture Road, Maadi, Cairo, Egypt
Tel: +202-0101478540, Fax: +225256467
E-mail: gelsakka2004@yahoo.com
(2) Tel: +202-25280598, E-mail: aahmed_hm@yahoo.com

Abstract

Marine environmental problems vary around the globe, but the overall diagnosis is the same. Scientists report that many marine populations and habitats are reaching the point at which even small disturbances can cause big changes. It’s clear that a threat to one species can have ripple effects upon an entire ecosystem. Coastal area pollution has a direct or indirect effect on the human health and the economy. The implementation of ICZM can stimulate and guide the sustainable development of coastal areas; it can minimize the degradation of the natural system, provide a framework for the management of multi-spectral activities and maintain options for future uses of resources. The Coastal Water Monitoring Program (CWMP) is a part of the Environmental Information and Monitoring Program (EIMP). The main objective of the monitoring of the coastal belt of the Egyptian Coast is to establish baseline knowledge of the water quality through continuous survey of the coastal zone and report the results to decision makers. In the Egyptian part of the Mediterranean Sea the main sources of marine pollution are: Industrial waste water, domestic sewage from cities and tourist resorts, agriculture run off through the Nile River and oil pollution from ships.

 

This paper will focus on the monitoring results in the Mediterranean Sea of Egypt. The data in this paper represent the results of the monitoring in 2006 for the water quality (Include Visual observations, Hydrographical conditions, Bacteriological parameters and Eutrophication Parameters), also results of Heavy Metals and hazardous Organic analysis in Sediments and Benthos during August, September 2006. The paper will also focus on the challenges faces the Mediterranean Coast in Egypt. The results of this monitoring program are used to establish quantitative and causal relation between pollution sources and impacts. Ammonia content along the investigated area showed that the western area was characterized by low levels. On the other hand, high absolute value of NH4 was recorded in some sampling campaigns at El Mex (Me 11), Western Harbour (Me 12) and Electrical Power Station (Me 23). In general, the results of most locations of Alexandria area, Delta Region and Port Said, at the eastern Region showed high levels of chlorophyll-a. This may be related to the rich supply of dissolved inorganic nitrogen, reactive phosphate and silicate. These nutrient contribute to the high level of chlorophyll-a, which leads to eutrophication problem in several locations along the coastal areas of the Mediterranean Sea. On the other hand, the low concentration of nutrient salts in the western Region except Sidi Kerir and El Nobareya reflects oligotrophic conditions.

 


Environmental Monitoring of the Caspian Sea Area Adjacent to the Russian Federation Territory

Maria Voinova(1), Galina Monakhova(1,2) and Vitaly Tatarnikov(1,3)

(1) Caspian Marine Scientific Research Center (KaspMNIZ), 414045 Astrakhan, Russia
Tel: + 7-8512-304901, Fax: + 7-8512-301163
E-mail: mariya-voinova@mail.ru
(2) E-mail: kaspmniz@astranet.ru
(3) E-mail: vtatar@inbox.ru

Abstract

The paper presents characteristics of current status and prospects for development of environmental monitoring of the Caspian Sea area adjacent to the territory of Russia from the viewpoint of implementing the Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea. It was shown that international cooperation should be preceded by coordination at the national level between different monitoring types conducted by different state institutions and private corporations. Mechanisms for realization of state-private partnership in the field of environmental monitoring of the Caspian Sea area adjacent to the territory of Russia are suggested.

 


VOLUME II

 

Coastal & Environmental Impacts

A Regional Risk Assessment Framework for Climate Change Coastal Impacts Evaluation

Silvia Torresan(1), Andrea Critto(1,2), Matteo Dalla Valle(2), Nick Harvey(3) and Antonio Marcomini(1,2)

(1) Euro-Mediterranean Centre for Climate Change (CMCC), c/o Consorzio Venezia Ricerche, Viale della Libertà 12, Marghera-Venice, Italy
Tel: +39-0415093184, Fax: +390415093074
E-mail: torresan@unive.it, matteo.dallavalle@cmcc.it
(2) Department of Environmental Sciences, University Ca’ Foscari of Venice, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, I-30123 Venice, Italy
Tel: +39-0412348548, Fax: +39-0412348584
E-mail: critto@unive.it, marcom@unive.it
(3) Department of Geography & Environmental Studies, University of Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
Tel: +61-883035923, Fax: +61-883036008
E-mail: nick.harvey@adelaide.edu.au

Abstract

Based on emerging methodologies for regional scale comparative assessment (Landis and Wiegers, 1997; Landis, 2005), a spatially resolved regional risk assessment framework for climate change impacts assessment within coastal zone management was developed. It allows relevant impact sources and vulnerable exposure units to be identified and compared, in order to support the formulation of management scenarios.

 

The main aim of the proposed Regional Risk Assessment framework is the identification of integrated areas resulting from the aggregation of multiple local sources and/or exposure units that can be considered as homogeneous geographic sites for the definition of mitigation/remediation and management strategies.



The framework was subdivided in three main phases. The first phase, called “Scenario Construction”, is aimed at the development of future climate change scenarios at the regional scale; the second phase, named “Integrated impact/risk assessment”, is based on a Regional Risk Assessment methodology and allows prioritization of impacts, targets and areas at risk in the considered region. Finally, the third phase, called “Impact/risk management”, focuses on the definition of actions and responses to reduce and mitigate risks, according to integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) strategies.

 

The core of the framework is the Regional Risk Assessment (RRA) methodology which integrates future climate change scenarios with physical and socio-economic vulnerability assessment, in order to estimate and compare risks at the regional scale.

 

The developed Regional Risk Assessment framework will support the creation of a GIS based Decision Support System (DSS) for climate change impact assessment and management on coastal zones at regional scale. The DSS will be produced within a research activity of the Euro-Mediterranean Centre for Climate Change (CMCC), recently established in Italy. The CMCC is aimed at the study of climate change and its impacts, focusing on the Mediterranean region, and in particular on the Northern Adriatic Sea, including the lagoon of Venice.

 

After an accurate analysis of existing DSSs for global vulnerability assessment, a specific set of impact and vulnerability indicators/indexes suitable for the assessment of climate change impacts on coastal zones at the regional scale was defined and integrated within the proposed framework and applied to the Northern Adriatic region, taken as case study. A comparison with the coastal vulnerability indicators proposed at the global scale by the Dynamic Interactive Vulnerability Assessment (DIVA; Hinkel and Klein, 2007) was performed by means of GIS applications and maps. The main results are here presented for the case study.

 

 

Effects of Beach Nourishment on Donax trunculus in the Latium Coasts
(Central Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy)

Paola La Valle(1), Andrea Belluscio(2), Luisa Nicoletti(1,3), Daniela Paganelli (1,4) and Gian Domenico Ardizzone(2,5)

(1) ICRAM (Central Institute for Marine Research), Via di Casalotti,
300, 00166 Rome, Italy
Tel: + 390661570564, Fax + 390661561906
E-mail: p.lavalle@icram.org
(2) Department of “Biologia Animale e dell’Uomo”, University of Rome
“La Sapienza”, Viale dell’Università, 32, 00185 Rome, Italy
Tel: + 390649914041, Fax: + 39064958259
E-mail: andrea.belluscio@uniroma1.it
(3) E-mail: l.nicoletti@icram.org
(4) E-mail: d.paganelli@icram.org
(5) E-mail: giandomenico.ardizzone@uniroma1.it

Abstract

During the last decade, beach nourishments using relict sands were carried out on some beaches located in Latium (Central Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy). In this coastal environment, some important economic resources as the bivalvia Donax trunculus (Linnaeus, 1758) are typically found. D. trunculus is a very common bivalve on the Mediterranean sandy beaches and constitutes a very important fishing resource. This species is extremely sensitive to the sediment grain size variations during its lifespan.

 

A monitoring study was performed to evaluate the effects of beach nourishment using relict sands (carried out in 2003) on D. trunculus populations in three beaches along the Latium coasts: two of the beaches were interested by nourishment and a third one, in sedimentary equilibrium, was used as a control site. Surveys were realized, from June 2002 to March 2004, before, during and after beach nourishment.
Data showed a temporal and spatial variation of Donax densities related to the granulometric changes of sediments. Results showed that after the beach nourishment, specimens, when present, died buried by the new settled sediments. In the two nourished beaches in a few months (3-4), after a period of sediment re-equilibration, several juveniles were observed with an increase of densities related to the recruitment period. The occurrence of Donax juveniles after nourishment has been observed also where D. trunculus populations were previously absent.

 

Results highlighted the importance to know the biology of the main littoral species in order to evaluate the effects of beach nourishment using relict sands. Therefore it is possible to hypothesize that planning beach nourishments in a specific period, possibly before the juvenile recruitment, effects on the marine environment would minimize, avoiding also significant economic relapses on the local fishery.

 

 

Environmental Impact Assessment for Coastal Resorts Using Electronic Model

Akram Soliman(1), Wael Kamel(1,2) and Hatem Hassan(1,3)

(1) College of Engineering and Technology, Arab Academy for Science and Technology and Maritime Transport, P.O. 1029, Abo kir, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2 010 661 96 28
E-mail: akram_soliman@aast.edu
(2) E-mail: wael_kamel@yahoo.com
(3) Fax: +2 0233024748
E-mail: tomyhass@hotmail.com

Abstract

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Egypt can be traced back to year 1982 at the provision of law number 48/1982 concerning the protection of the river Nile and waterways from pollution. However, the real beginning of the EIA in Egypt dates back after the ratification of the environmental law number 4/1994 to all new establishments or extension of existing ones.

 

The main objective of this paper is to present a standard report of EIA for a coastal resort using an electronic model (a designed computer program built under visual studio.net 2003). The EIA report has been extended to include a Coastal Management Plan (CMP) for the resort shoreline. The EIA report includes a description of the existing coastal baseline data and monitoring plan.

 

The electronic model is designed as a web-based program, which can be provided on the internet for large public. More classified projects and more concerned Competent Administrative Authority (CAA) can be added to the model. As a result, a lot of time and efforts would be saved for both investor and Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA), which could promote establishing new projects and help develop the national economy. It could be recommended that EEAA exploit the proposed model to simplify the classification of different projects and to monitor any kind of emissions resulting through the different phases of the projects. This would facilitate assessing the environmental impacts of the projects.

 

 

Environmental Evaluation of Cozumel Island Mexico

Vivianne Solís-Weiss(1), Granados Barba Alejandro(2) and Jorge Malpica Martínez(1)

(1) Lab Ecología y Biodiversidad de Invertebrados Marinos, Inst de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, UNAM, AP 70-305, México, D.F., 04510
Tel: +52 55 5622 5840, Fax: +52 55 5616 0748
E-mail: solisw@mar.icmyl.unam.mx
(2) Centro de Ecología y Pesquerías, UnivVeracruzana. Av Hidalgo 617, Boca
del Río, Veracruz, Mexico, C.P 94290
Tel: +52 229 956 7070, Fax: +52 229 956 7070
E-mail: agranados@uv.mx

Abstract

The island of Cozumel, the largest in Mexico (about 50Km x 12Km), is located in the highly tourist Caribbean Mexican zone known as “Riviera Maya”, where it is considered one of the most important points of interest. Its fame is not new, especially for Scuba divers for which it has always been considered a “must” at international levels. Its tourist development was one of the first in the Mexican Caribbean at the beginning of the 1960’s, and has continued to grow vigorously until now, generally without much concern for the environment. In this study, we analyse the activities that Cozumel provides, for the most part centered around its main attraction: the beautiful reef formations which cover a large part of its coasts and can be reached easily on the leeward side of the island. The best developed and lucrative activities are: spectacular Scuba diving, snorkeling, sport fishing and sailing (private yatchs). In addition, Cozumel is now one of the most popular stop-overs for large cruise ships (several per day) and a well known site for the manufacture of arts and crafts from black coral and other reef related products. It is also known for its flourishing commerce of aquarium animals (especially exotic fishes) and live rock, and for its shellfish food. These activities have been regarded by the local population as good in terms of financial benefits, more jobs and general well being for all. However, there is also a definite growing concern because of the uncontrolled development with almost no regulations or recovery strategies. In order to assess the current state of the impacts to which it is subjected, we made an environmental diagnosis of Cozumel, in order to provide the technical and conceptual bases for the planning of the integrated coastal management policies necessary to establish a coherent development plan. For this, we divided the total area in four zones: Zone 1 is the National Underwater Marine Park (Reefs); Zone 2 is the tourist zone including the urban areas; Zone 3 is the windward region and Zone 4 is the inland region of the island. Zones 1 and 2 are more damaged by anthropic impacts, while the last two are in better shape, even if located in hurricane paths, like Wilma which hit in November 2005. Among the most important problems related to conservation, we can cite: building directly on the coastal zone, use of natural resources, with few controls, excessive urban development, overloading the drinking water supply, carelessness of divers, service providers and boat drivers directly harming the reef, and urban discharges directly thrown to sea. In each zone, the different sources of impact are analysed and management tools are proposed to solve the problems without stopping the main economic activities of the area, defining the social and biological factors that interact in this insular system. Two case studies are also analysed: the construction of the second large cruise pier which is considered an example of mistaken policies with high damaging potential, and the installation of the underwater electricity lines connecting Cozumel to the mainland for its power supply, which in addition to being highly beneficial for the island was carefully monitored to avoid ecological impact. There is a definite need of careful planning for the future development of Cozumel in order to avoid more ecological deterioration which will ruin a large part of the attractive character of the site and thus influence negatively tourism and the whole economy of the island.

 

 

Heavy Rain and Social Impacts in the Northern Coastal Region of Albania

L. Muçaj(1), V. Mustaqi(1,2) and E. Bruci(1,3)

Hydrometeorological Institute, Rruga Durresit Nr 219, Tirana, Albania
Tel/Fax: +355 4 223518
(1) E-mail: liri_mucaj@yahoo.com
(2) E-mail: vmustaqi@yahoo.com
(3) E-mail: eglantinab@yahoo.com

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyze the regime of all yearlong precipitation, to find out when it becomes a hazardous phenomenon likely to cause the flooding. Otherwise, the human factors are determinant in the frequently inundation of this coastal zone, as we have listed below.

 

One of the greatest problems nowadays in Lezha zone is heavy rainfall. It leads to flooding accompanied by erosion that undermines structures and inundation, destroys crops, and contaminates freshwater supplies, isolate communities. These events affect very often all the activities causing great socio-economical problems.

 

The annual mean long-term of precipitation in the study area (Lezha station) is about 1320 mm while the maximal precipitation during 24hours (analyzed in detail) is 219 mm.

 

The monthly total of 368.7mm recorded at September 2002, remains the highest value since 1951 in all yearlong series of September. This heavy rainfall which started on 22 September 2002 over all the territory has caused substantial flooding in several areas of Albania especially in the Lezha zone.



The threshold calculation for adverse weather phenomena identification, the frequency distribution of meteorological variables is used as the methodological tool for the study.

 

 

Ship Breaking Industry and Its Impacts on Environment

Necmettin Akten(1), Birsen Koldemir(1,2),Abdurrahman Yaran, S. Sevket Irtem and Güldem Elmas

(1) Istanbul University, Engineering Faculty, Department of Maritime Transport and Management Engineering, Avcilar, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 212 473 70 70, Fax: +90 212 591 19 97
E-mail: nakten@istanbul.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: bkr@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

Like all live creatures, ships too get born, live and at the end of the day go to their cemeteries. Ships cemetery is either the seabed, mostly after a casualty, or the breaking yard for recycling. Ships live differently as to their trading function; some are large or small in size, some are designed to carry solely dangerous cargo and some others have fighting techniques. For that reason, their treatment for recycling process also varies one another. The average life-span of merchant ships used in international trade is of a couple of decades. The aged ships are withdrawn and go to ship breaking facilities for recycling. With this regard, shipbreaking industry provides a regeneration function and is indispensable not only for the shipping industry but also for the world economy. Shipbreaking is performed in specialised yards - some of which are properly designed and organised, several others are simply being bare grounds. When and where the scrapping operations are carried out under inappropriate conditions thence the industry is considered as damaging for the environment as well as human health. Some toxic wastes that come up in the process of ship breaking together with the improper handling of some materials may ultimately cause marine pollution and justify these claims.

 

The purpose of the paper to be submitted is to investigate the ship breaking industry in general in conjunction with impacts on the environment. National and international conventions and regulations about the ship breaking industry, leading countries and their share in worldwide ship scrapping, ship breaking facilities and their activities in some countries such as Turkey, China and India are to be explored. Similarly, the interactions of the ship breaking industry with other industries, especially with the ship building industry, green recycling being spelled out globally in order to give a better shape for the industry, pros and cons of such approach together with the internationally accepted rules to be applicable in near future in this regard are also to be studied.

 

Ship breaking is a recycling process that no one can ignore but everyone has to restore in order to protect the environment.

 

 

Pollution

Evaluation of Metal Contamination Based On Posidonia Oceanica

Christine Pergent-Martini(1), Maria Cristina Buia(2), Roger Kantin(3), Céline Lafabrie(1), Cecilia Lopez y Royo(1,2), Gérard Pergent(1) and Javier Romero(4)

(1) Université de Corse, Faculté des Sciences, Equipe Ecosystèmes Littoraux, BP 52, 20250 Corte, France
Tel: +33 495 45 01 46, Fax: +33 4 88 10 05 93
E-mail: pmartini@univ-corse.fr
(2) Stazione Zoologica di Napoli, Benthic Ecology Laboratory, Punta San Pietro, 80077 Ischia, Italy
Tel: +39 39 081 58 33 504, Fax: +39 081 98 42 01
E-mail: mcbuia@szn.it
(3) Ifremer, Base océanologique de Méditerranée, Zone portuaire de Brégaillon, 83507 La Seyne/Mer Cedex, France
Tel: +33 4 94 30 44 23, Fax: + 33 4 94 30 44 17
E-mail: Roger.Kantin@ifremer.fr
(4) Universitat de Barcelona, Departament d’Ecologia, Facultad de Biologia, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
Tel: +34 34 02 15 11, Fax: +34 34 11 14 38
E-mail: jromero@ub.edu

Abstract

Posidonia oceanica appears as an interesting biointegrator of coastal contamination by trace metal. In the framework of three INTERREG Programs (MONIQUA, PORIME and POSIDONIA) and bilateral collaborations, a global study has been carried out in the North Western Mediterranean Sea. 38 sites from Catalonia to Naples Gulf, including Corsica and Sardinia, where studied between 2003 and 2006. 10 metals (Ag, As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn) were measured in foliar tissues of Posidonia oceanica. The results gave a general trend (pattern) of the repartition of metal contamination in this part of the Mediterranean and pointed out some local impacts (from natural to anthropogenic origin). The great number of available data (or the available data) is used to establish a preliminary contamination scale of useful to estimate the impact level of each site. In the future, in order to evaluate coastal environmental contamination at basin level, additional data from southern and eastern Mediterranean will improve the preliminary classification.

 

 

Talitrid Amphipods as Bioindicators of Sandy Beaches Contamination and Human Disturbance

Alberto Ugolini(1), Giuseppe Ungherese(1), Francesca Borghini(2), Davide Baroni(2), Paola Bruni(3), Silvano Focardi(2)

(1) Dipartimento di Biologia Animale e Genetica, Università di Firenze, Via Romana 17, 50125, Firenze, Italy
Tel: +39 55 2288219, Fax: +39 55 222565
E-mail: ugolini_alb@dbag.unifi.it
(2) Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Università di Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
Tel: +39 577 232833, Fax: +39 577 232806
E-mail: focardi@unisi.it
(3) Dipartimento di Scienze Biochimiche, Università di Firenze, V.le Morgagni 44, 50134, Firenze, Italy
Tel: +39 55 4598328, Fax: +39 554 598905
E-mail: paola.bruni@unifi.it

Abstract

This work assesses the use of the amphipod Talitrus saltator, a typical inhabitant of Mediterranean sandy beaches, as a bioindicator of trace metals contamination and human disturbance on the supralittoral band. The trace metal analysis confirmed the ability of T. saltator to accumulate Hg, Zn, Cu, Cd, Fe, Cr, and Al. The results of sampling, carried out at sites subjected to different human impact, showed a negative correlation between the number of swimmers and the sandhopper population density, while there was no clear relationship with the other factors (granulometry, compactness and organic carbon content of the sand). Our study demonstrates that T. saltator is a good bioindicator of human impact in the supralittoral zone of sandy shores and could be used for an ecosustainable management and monitoring on this habitat.

 

 

Effect of Off-shore Sand Dredging on Turbidity

Luca Martinelli(1), Massimo Guerrero(1,2) and Mentino Preti(3)

(1) Bologna University, DISTART, V.le Risorgimento, 2 - 40136 Bologna, Italy
Tel: +39-51-2093745, Fax: +39-051-6448346
E-mail: luca.martinelli@mail.ing.unibo.it
(2) E-mail: massimo.guerrero@mail.ing.unibo.it
(3) ARPA Ingegneria Ambientale, Vicolo Carega 3- 40121 Bologna, Italy
Tel: +39-51-2966310, Fax: +39-051-2966338
E-mail: mpreti@ia.arpa.emr.it

Abstract

Dredging activities carried out in a 30 miles offshore sand pit have been monitored under the INTERREG Beachmed-E EuDREP project (www.beachmed.it) in order to establish the relevance of turbidity production during these kind of works. A run with suction of 4'000 tons of sand, removed from a mine 2.5 m thick, 34 m deep, covered by 30 cm of silt, was monitored by several instruments. During the monitoring, two weak currents co-existed at different depths and with different directions. Produced turbidity, simulated by a 3D finite element model, was well below expectations. Material settled down after approximately 2 hours and it was seen to diffuse for approx. 800 m. Concentration was smaller in the submerged part of the water column than on the surface. No significant deposit of silt in the areas around the pit was observed.

 

 

Effect of Temperature on the Rate of Concentration of Faecal Coliforms in Mussels

Mladen Šolic(1), Nada Krstulovic(1,2), Slaven Jozic(1,3),
Stefanija Šestanovic(1,4) and Danijela Šantic(1,5)

(1) Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, 21000 Split, Croatia
Tel: +385-21-408 000, Fax: +385-21-358 650
E-mail: solic@izor.hr
(2) E-mail: krstulovic@izor.hr
(3) E-mail: sjozic@izor.hr
(4) E-mail: sesta@izor.hr
(5) E-mail: segvic@izor.hr

Abstract

The effects of different temperatures (12oC, 18oC, 24oC) on the rate of concentration of faecal coliforms (FC) in mussels were studied in experimental conditions at different concentrations of FC in seawater. At low initial concentrations of FC in mussels the rate of FC concentration increased with concentration of FC in seawater and with increase of temperature. As concentration of FC in mussels increased, the rates of FC concentration decreased more rapidly at higher concentration of FC in seawater and at higher temperature. As the FC concentration in mussels kept on growing the rate of concentration became inversely proportional with temperature. As a consequence of that, the lower temperature, the higher was the level-off concentration (which is the maximal concentration of FC present in mussels), and mussels needed more time to reach the level-off concentration.

 

 

Effect of Solar Radiation and Temperature on Survival of Faecal Coliforms in Seawater

Nada Krstulovic(1), Mladen Šolic(1,2), Slaven Jozic(1,3), Stefanija Šestanovic(1,4) and Danijela Šantic(1,5)

(1) Institue of Oceanography and Fisheries, 21000 Split, Croatia
Tel: +385-21-408 000, Fax: +385-21-358 650
E-mail: krstulovic@izor.hr
(2) E-mail: solic@izor.hr
(3) E-mail: sjozic@izor.hr
(4) E-mail: sesta@izor.hr
(5) E-mail: segvic@izor.hr

Abstract

The presence of sunlight was the major factor controlling the survival of faecal coliforms (FC) in seawater. The response of FC survival to intensity of solar radiation and temperature were inversely proportional. The combined effect of solar radiation and temperature on the survival of FC was expressed by multiple linear regression. The coefficients of partial correlation and beta coefficients, which are used in determining the relative importance of solar radiation and temperature, suggest that variations in solar radiation have more effect than variations in temperature in bringing about changes of T90 (time required for a 90% reduction in bacterial number) for FC. The increase of temperature was more detrimental to FC survival in the presence of sunlight suggesting that the sunlight may have acted synergistically with temperature.

 

 

Impacts of Land-Based Sources on Water Quality of Abu-Qir Drain, Egypt

M. A. Shriadah(1) and S. A. Abd El Ghani

(1) National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Kayet Bay, El-Anfushi, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2 03 480155, Fax: +2 03 4801499
E-mail: M_shreadah@yahoo.com

Abstract

Water samples were collected from Abu-Qir drain during February 2003 at 8 stations. The levels temperature, pH, salinity, total suspended matter, dissolved oxygen, hydrogen sulfide, organic matter were scattered in the following ranges: (19.1-25.1 ; mean: 21.0 ? 2.1oC); (5.15 –9.13); (0.46-9.2.07; mean: 0.93 ? 0.5 g/l ); (2.5-12.8; mean: 4.95 ? 3.5 g/l); (0.0 -7.13; mean: 1.32 ? 2.3 mg/l); (0.0 – 4.31; mean: 1.78 ? 1.7 mg/l); and (57.1-4447.2; mean: 1013.9 ? 1387.3 mg/l ), respectively. The concentrations of Fe, Zn, Mn. Ni, Cu, Cr, Cd , and Pb were, on the other hand scattered in the following ranges: (Fe: 0.65-590; mean: 85.01? 191.1mg/l); (Zn: 0.02- 415.1; mean: 52.57 ? 137.0 mg/l); (Mn: 0.01-4.71; mean: 0.86 ? 1.5 mg/l); (Ni: 0.01-0.78; mean: 0.21? 0.29 mg/l); (Cu: 0.01-0.14; mean: 0.05? 0.05 mg/l); (Cr: 0.01 – 0.52; mean: 0.11 ? 0.17 ?g/l); (Cd: Nd-12.40; mean: 4.14?3.73 ?g/l); and (Pb: 0.03- 0.92; mean: 0.19?0.30?g/l). The water quality studies cleared out that: 1) As a result of industrial, agricultural and domestic effluents that varies in constitution and quantity from location to another and from time to time, broad variations in physico- chemical characteristics of Abu-Qir drain water were observed; 2) The enrichment of the waters of Abu-Qir drain with chemical fertilizers, industrial wastes, farm effluents in addition to sewage waters have elevated the nutrient concentrations; 3) Trace metals in industrial wastewater reveal also wide ranges of variations and irregularities in regard to sampling sites which were due to the discharge of different effluents into the drain from different sources. Except for Fe and Zn, most of the measured values for each metal do comply with the standards and does not exceed the allowable limits; and 4) some of the measured parameters do not comply with the standards and exceed the allowable limits.

 

 

Pore water Chemistry of Alexandria Eastern Harbour (2004-05)

Ramsy B. Nessim(1), Hermine R.Z. Tadros(1,2)
and Amaal E. Abou-Taleb(1,3)

(1) National Institute of Oceanography & Fisheries, Kayet Bay,
Alexandria, Egypt
Tel:+203-4801553, Fax:+203-4801174
E-mail: ramzybnessim@ yahoo.com
(2) E-mail: hermine_rzts@yahoo.com
(3) E-mail: Amaal_bbs@yahoo.com

Abstract

Alexandria Eastern Harbour is one of the most important areas for tourism, Fisheries and several recreational and developmental purposes. Till the year 2003, the basin received a huge amount of unprocessed sewage. Large quantities of metals and paints are still dampened the harbour by local boatyard. Accumulation of nutrients, organics and other elements on the bottom as well as their diffusion from the sediment pore water to overlying water are expected. The study aimed to know the level and distribution of the nutritive salts in the harbour pore water.

77 Surfacial sediment samples collected during ten cruises among the year (Oct.2004-Oct.2005) at eight sites cover the basin in addition to four samples outside the harbour. Their pore waters were analyzed for measuring dissolved inorganic phosphorus, nitrogen and silicon ions content in addition to other hydrographical variables such as pH-value, total alkalinity, calcium, magnesium and oxidizable organic matter. For sediment itself, water and organic contents were also determined. The results reveal accumulation of ammonia, silicates, phosphates, nitrates and nitrites. High organic matter content is also accumulated and high alkalinity levels were also detected.

Most of the harbour sediment is not homogeneous and poorly sorted and consequently no general trend of variation could be detected. The western edge of the basin where yachting and fishing processes carried out reflect their pore water relative higher levels of nutrients and organic matter content.

 

 

Heavy Metal Concentrations in Water and Sediment from the Gökova Bay, Turkey

Erdogan Okus(1), Nuray Balkis(1,2), Abdullah Aksu(1,3)
and Mahmut S. Ersan(1,4)

(1) Istanbul University, Institute of Marine Sciences and Management,
Department of Physical Oceanography and Marine Biology, Vefa 34470, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +902124400000/26040, Fax: +902125268433
(2) E-mail: nbal@istanbul.edu.tr
(3) E-mail: aksu_abdullah@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

The contents of heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Pb, Cu, Cd and Hg) dissolved in the water and suspended solids were quite higher than the average value of the uncontaminated sea waters in the Gökova Bay. The high concentrations were connected with the terrestrial inputs from the mining zones and anthropohogenic (domestic + industrial) sources. Moreover the distribution of Fe and Cu was affected by primary production because they functioned as nutrients in the biological activities. The surface sediments Cr, Ni and Fe concentrations were above the shale average. The high values were caused by the the terrestiral inputs from anthropohogenic sources and the mining zones of the southeast part of the bay. The Al, Mn, Pb, Cu, Zn and Hg contents were below the shale average. The low values were originated from the coarse-grained sediments. There were no clear differences in the heavy metal distributions between the years 2005-2006 in the bay.

 

 

An Assessment of the Pollution Status of Abu Qir Bay with Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs)
and their Possible Origins

Kamal Z. El Deeb, Tarek O. Said, Mohamed H. El Naggar
and Mohamed A. Shreadah

National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Kayet Bay,
Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2 0105047184, Fax: +2 03 4801553
E-mail: tareksaideg@yahoo.co.uk

Abstract

Aliphatic and Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in water of Abu Qir Bay during 2004. The total aliphatic hydrocarbon concentrations were varied from 200 to 9085 ng l-1. Most samples had Pr/Ph ratios > 1, indicating mainly biogenic inputs to Abu Qir Bay. Water samples exhibited total PAH concentrations with a maximum of 2514 ng l-1 representing S23 PAHs. SPAHs in water were mainly arising from different petrogenic and pyrogenic sources. Di, tri- and tetracyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were found in low levels, while carcinogenic dibenzo(a,h)anthracene and benzo(a)pyrene were recorded with average concentrations of 5.5 and 322 ng l-1, respectively.

 

 

Petroleum Hydrocarbons in Lake Burullus, Egypt

Tarek O. Said

National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, Kayet Bay,
Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2 0105047184, Fax: +2 03 4801174
E-mail: tareksaideg@yahoo.co.uk

Abstract

Lake Burullus is one of the Delta lakes, connected with the Mediterranean Sea through El Boughaz opening. ?PAHs varied from 0.07-1.27, 1.01-42.72, 0.5-68.01 and 0.47-9.99µg/l in water during winter, spring, summer and autumn, respectively. The calculated Phe/An ratio of 0.53 in the Lake indicated that the major PAH input was from pyrolytic source. ?COMB concentrations ranged from 0.14 to 119.24 µg/l, representing 70% of ?PAHs. However, ?PAHCARC ranged from 0.02 to 7.14 with an average of 3.04 µg/l with 13.28% of ?PAHs. The concentrations of individual PAH recorded in sediment ranged from non-detectable levels to 17556 ng/g, dry weight, were much lower than the ERM values. High concentration of DBA (above the ERM value) at some locations of the Lake might need a more detailed study. BaP recorded in all fish species of the investigated area exceeded a limit of 10 ng/g.

 

 

The Turkish Straits: Growth of Oil Trade and Shipping Accidents Ended Up with Oil Pollution

Birsen Koldemir(1), Necmettin Akten(1,2), Güldem Elmas(1,3), Abdurrahman Yaran(1,4) and S. Sevket Irtem(1,5)

(1) I.Ü Mühendislik Fakültesi, Deniz Ulastirma Isletme Mühendisligi, Avcilar 34320
Tel: +90 532 322 45 04, Fax: 0212 473 72 90
E-mail: bkr@istanbul.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: nakten@istanbul.edu.tr
(3) E-mail: gelmas@istanbul.edu.tr
(4) E-mail: ayaran@istanbul.edu.tr
(5) E-mail: sevketi@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

Beginning of the seaborne oil trade goes back to 1861, two years after the first oilwell was drilled in Titusville, Pennsylvania. The brig Elisabeth Watt was the first ship loaded 224 tons of oil in barrels in Philadelphia and carried all the way through the Atlantic Ocean, delivery for London. The seaborne oil trade grew steadily as the years went by, reaching almost 2.4 billion tons in the year 2006, while was merely 35 million tons in the early 1920s.

 

The Turkish Straits, for almost the last 20 years at least, have turned into one of the key shipping foci of the world seaborne oil trade, such as the Suez Canal, the Straits of Malacca and the Straits of Dover. It was previously the same in 1892. In that year, oil cargoes loaded in the Black Sea port Batumi were delivered by tankers to their customers in the Far East destination(s), all passing through the Turkish Straits of the time.

 

The Turkish Straits comprising of the Straits of Canakkale and Istanbul, and the Sea of Marmara, as specified in the Montreux Convention, link the Black Sea to the rest of the world via the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas and thence the Suez Canal and Strait of Gibraltar, and constitute one of the busiest seaways in the World. Nearly 153 million tons of oil has passed through the Turkish Straits in the year 2006 - subject to further increase as the years go by and currently representing by about 6 per cent of the oil traded by sea. Hence the oil trade through the Turkish Straits has increased by 1 per cent since 2002. Number of tankers passed through the Straits for that period, up or down, was 10153 for the Strait of Istanbul and 9567 for the Strait of Canakkale respectively. In other words, 26 tankers a day sailed through either of the Straits, laden or in ballast.

 

Ships trade in a high-risk environment and despite significant technological developments shipping accidents still occur at sea. Yet some of shipping accidents end up with oil pollution, in the form of large or small spills (Akten, 2004a).

 

Shipping accidents of today have become more “environmental” and the issue has been though than ever for all parties concerned, especially in case of oil pollution. An example to this is the Atlantic Express disaster off Tobago in 1979, where 276.000 tones of oil was spilt as a result of the casualty.

 

Similar incidents have also occurred in the Turkish Straits, notably in the Strait of Istanbul, such as with the World Harmony, Peter Zoranic, Norborn, Lutsk, Independenta, Nordic Faith, Blue Star, Nassia, Jambur to mention a few. Around 200.000 tonnes of oil has been spilt into the Strait and its approaches from these casualties alone. Whatever the nature of a casualty, it takes more serious shape and effect in a confined area. (Chapman and Akten, 1998)

 

The Turkish Straits are something like a risk generator from the point of view of maintaining a safe passage. Not only the state of currents, eddies, fog and strong winds (even sometimes gales) within the Straits, but also their shapes which limit, or close rather, the view behind headlands, especially in the Strait of Istanbul, to a great extent reduce the safety of navigation and hence build up potential risks and perils for vessels, especially for large tankers, to pass through.

 

 

Bioluminescence of Plankton Organisms as an Index of the Neritic Aquatoria Pollution

Yu. N. Tokarev(1), P.V. Evstigneev(1,2), V.I.Vasilenko(1,3),
O.V. Mashukova(1,4), N.V. Burmistrova(1,5)

(1) Kovalevsky Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas (IBSS) of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 99011 Sevastopol, Nakhimov Av., 2, Ukraine
Tel: +8-0692-54-59-19, Fax: +8-0692-55-78-13
E-mail: y.tokarev@gmail.com
(2) Tel: +8-0692-57-59-24, Fax: 8-0692-55-78-13
(3) Tel: +8-0692-23-54-91, Fax: Fax: 8-0692-55-78-13
(4) Tel: +8-0692-45-04-29, Fax: 8-0692-55-78-13
E-mail: aster@sevcable.net
(5) Tel: +8-0692-46-37-74
E-mail: BurmistrovaN@mail.ru

Abstract

The ecological situation in the coastal zones continues to deteriorate. Pollutants especially influence on the neritic ecosystems – growth rate of composing its organisms decreases, level of exchange and food uptake becomes lower, less tolerant to anthropogenic impact forms escape. As a result biocenotic species diversity decreases and its degradation take place.

 

The functional state of plankton populations are one of the most important characteristics of pelagic communities. But the physical – chemical methods for environment control can not provide evaluation of the biota functional state with sufficient exact ness even in perspective, because, first, scientific – technical progress leads to permanent increase of dangerous for biota chemical compounds and, second, they do not take into consideration bioaccumulation of toxins in the hydrobionts tissues and synergic effects of different toxicants influence on marine organisms. That’s why biophysical express methods for evaluation of the plankton communities’ functional state according to kinetic parameters of their luminescence are today adopted as those of priority.

 

As a result of many-year experiments that were carried out in the biophysical ecology department of IBSS NASU the methodics for using luminescence characteristics of hydrobionts with different systematic attribution for evaluation of their physiological condition have been worked out. The materials of experiments, studying effect of the heavy metals salts different concentrations on spontaneous luminescence in the Black sea Dinophyta algae and induced bioluminescence of ?tenophora, as well as the plankton predator Noctiluca scintillans light emission are given. It has been shown, that marine environment pollution, causing no organisms death, modifies intensity of the organisms luminescence. Objectivity of the data obtained, multivariantness of the parameters observed and possibility to use modern informative technologies for their processing and analysis are important advantages of the proposed methods for the coastal monitoring.

 

 

Cyanobacteria: Biocidal Activity and Human Affairs

Evgeny B. Gol’din

Southern Branch of the National Agrarian University of Ukraine – Crimean
Agricultural and Technological University, 95043, PB 2223, Simferopol, Crimea,
Ukraine
Tel: +380 652 221389, Fax:+380 652 221389
E-mail: evgeny_goldin@mail.ru

Abstract

Cyanobacteria are very important in forming of water quality, chemical ecology, biodiversity, interspecific relations and ecological and pathological situation in coastal ecosystems. They can be (1) indices of anthropogenic influence upon abiotic and biotic natural components; (2) causative agents of "water blooms" in coastal ponds, saline lakes, estuaries and contact zones between fresh and saline or brackish waters and (3) producers of toxic and biologically active substances. Last time there are many evidences of intensive distribution and mass propagation of cyanobacteria (Microcystis aeruginosa, M. pulverea, Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, Oscillatoria planktonica, Anabaena spiroides, etc.) in the Black Sea coastal region and Ukrainian waters. We propose several perspective ways for the overcoming of "water blooms" and using of cyanobacteria in agriculture and medicine for the control of harmful organisms. The deterrent, antibacterial, fungicidal, antihelminthic, insecticidal and rodenticidal characteristics of metabolites of some mass and widespread cyanobacterial species and strains and their natural associations (in particular, M. aeruginosa and its antagonists or competitors) form their basis. Now these organisms exist out of human activity. Meanwhile they can be a source of new selective and prophylactic preparations - biological pesticides and antimicrobial agents. In this light we provide the progress in several ways of creation of new cyanobacterial preparations for pest control (important findings in this field are based on experimental material):
(1) using of the natural cyanobacterial material by withdrawal of surplus biomass;
(2) application of controlled methods of continuous cultivation; antibacterial activity of M. aeruginosa pure culture to some conditionally pathogenic microorganisms depending on the content of nitrogen, phosphorus and terpene fraction in the medium was ascertained.
(3) creation of enclosed systems of sewage utilization in cattle-breeding complexes as a nutrient substratum for cultivation of active cyanobacterial species.
(4) complex cyclic utilization of cyanobacterial biomass in technology of production of forage protein concentrate from natural populations of M. aeruginosa: salvage - using of waste materials as the natural pesticides for herbivorous insects (Colorado potato beetle, fall webworm and lackey moth): our results displayed high deterrent, growth inhibition and insecticidal (intestinal and contact) activity of waste material.
The analysis of these findings demonstrates that using of cyanobacteria for agricultural and medical biocidal preparations is very promising and perspective way and has a great potential in the sphere of biological pest control.

 

 

Formulation and Application of the Guideline for Countermeasures against Dioxins in Japan

Ryoji Naito(1) and Yoshiyuki Nakamura(2)

(1) Port and Airport Research Institute 3-1-1, Nagase, Yokosuka, Kanagawa
239-0826 Japan
Tel: + 81-46-844 5047, Fax: + 81-46-844-6243
E-mail: naitou-852a@pari.go.jp
(2) Port and Airport Research Institute 3-1-1, Nagase, Yokosuka, Kanagawa
239-0826 Japan
Tel: + 81-46-844 5047, Fax: + 81-46-844-6243
E-mail: nakamura_y@pari.go.jp

Abstract

The “Technical Guideline for Countermeasures against Dioxins in Bed Material in Ports and Harbors” was published to be applied in taking countermeasures against dioxins pollution in Japan. The guideline covers purpose, field survey, cleanup measures of dioxins, final disposal and monitoring. This paper summarizes the outline of the guideline which is based on the current knowledge of science on the fate and transport processes of dioxins and its adverse effects on coastal marine ecosystems as well as human health, and on up-to-date relating technologies for the construction and cleanup methodologies.

 

We also propose technical challenges concerning countermeasures which should be incorporated in a revised version of the guideline. One of the studies strongly recommended is to examine the relationship between dioxins content and its leachability, since the “Enforcement Order for the “Law for the Prevention of Marine Pollution and Maritime Disaster” which was revised in June 2003 requests another standard of 10pg-TEQ/L or less by the leaching test. Nowadays both measurements are necessary in preliminary survey for dredging work in ports and harbors. Therefore, development of a reasonable estimation method as well as conventional or alternative methods of chemical analysis would be great help to save total costs of the survey and monitoring. The applicability of the equilibrium partitioning method for Japanese sediments is discussed.

 

Another important study that should be promoted is on effectiveness of the sand capping over contaminated sediments, because it is one of pragmatic countermeasures. Addition of organic rich material into the sand capped layer would be more effective to prevent release of dioxins.

 

 

Wastewater Management

Wastewater Finishing by Facultative Biomass in Estuarine Channels of Cesenatico (I)

Maurizio Luca Mancini

D.I.S.T.A.R.T. Dipartimento di Ingegneria delle Strutture, dei Trasporti, delle Acque, del Rilevamento e del Territorio. Facoltà di Ingegneria - Università di Bologna. Via Risorgimento, 20136-Bologna, Italy
Tel: + 39 051 2093752, Fax: +39 051 6448346
E-mail: maurizio.mancini@unibo.it

Abstract

In urbanized coastal zone, freshwater, coming from discharging systems of Waste Water Treatment Plants, is often responsible of low seawater quality in small deep coastal areas. Treated and untreated effluents outfall into transition volumes, which provide to discharge into sea according with unsteady tidal flow. When ground and basin morphology implicate an extended system of channels and storage capa-bilities permit hydraulic retention time of the same order of retention time in WWTP, significant finishing effects, provided by natural depuration in channels, are foreseeable on water quality discharged to sea.

 

The present work describes effects on water quality of the more internal part of the channels, in an open sea drainage system, where variations in depth are provided by tide, but prevalent freshwater conditions are maintained by high rate of discharged treated wastewater. The research is carried out by a multiparameter probe into an internal channel of Cesenatico harbour basin at the limits of the transition area, at five kilometres from sea outlet. Along its length (almost 2000 m) this tract receives, in dry water conditions, only residual organic loading from Cesena municipal wastewater treatment plant (180.000 AE), presents low average depth (max 0,9-1,5 m) and almost constant width. Unsteady flow conditions regulated by downstream level, according with tidal oscillations and wastewater input, are schematized for water quality calculation as four sequencing daily cycles of storage and discharge. Wastewater finishing effects, provided by channel, are described by classic facultative lagoon biological processes developed in three plug flow reactor tanks.

 

Four fixed point, in output, middle and input cells, are monitored in order to verify active phenomena and finishing effects on discharged wastewater such in terms of C, N, P biological removal as in terms of physical removal during sedimentation phases related to low velocity cycles. In different tidal conditions are measured water depth, velocity, temperature, salinity, pH, redox, oxygen, ammonium and nitrate nitrogen. Data permit to quantify combined productive and consumer activities su-stained by microalgal and bacterial populations during the day and to obtain a balance between oxidizing and anoxic bacterial phases during the night.

 

 

Discharges to the Sea from Desalination Plants

A. Ruiz-Mateo(1), M. Antequera(1,2) and J. González(1,3)

(1) Centre for Studies and Experimentation on Public Works (CEDEX)
C/ Antonio López 81, 28026, Madrid, Spain
Tel: +34 91 335 7700, Fax: +34 91 335 7622
E-mail: antonio.ruiz@cedex.es
(2) Tel: +34 91 335 7674
E-mail: manuel.antequera@cedex.es
(3) Tel: +34 91 335 7664
E-mail: francisco.j.gonzalez@cedex.es

Abstract

The aims of the research are to study different ways of discharging brines to the sea, to know the field of salinity produced, to investigate the threshold of salinity increment that not impair the marine habitats, to achieve criteria to decide on the most advisable device for discharging in each case and to propose design methodologies. The behaviour of different jets and discharge devices were investigated in physical models. A mathematical model for a negatively buoyant single jet was prepared. This model allowed to check the results of the physical models for the single jet and to get a first estimation of the dilutions that could be reached with the diffuser. Formulae to calculate dilution and maximum height of jets were deduced on dimensional grounds and the coefficients obtained from the experimental results. These formulae have proved to be a good tool for design of multiport diffusers and have been applied to the design of a submarine outfall for an actual desalination plant.

 

 

Shoreline Management

Interference with Supplies of Sediments to Coasts

Orville T. Magoon(1) and Donald D. Treadwell(2)

(1) Consulting Engineer, San Francisco, California, USA
Tel: 415-931-1842, Fax: 415-931-9241
E-mail: omagoon@sbcglobal.net
(2) Consulting Engineer, Sausalito, California, USA
Tel: 415-331-9283
E-mail: ddtreadwell@comcast.net

Abstract

Particularly within the last 100 to 150 years, modifications of coastal areas due to the general increase of human activities and due to the exploitation of the hydraulic and sediment resources of rivers have caused extensive coastal erosion. The true costs and impacts of this erosion are difficult to assess and have not been reflected in the price of providing commodities such as sand and gravel. These impacts and their possible costs are illustrated using information from the states of Washington, Oregon, and California on the Pacific Coast of the United States of America.

 

 

Environmental Issues, Social Perception and Coastal Erosion Management: Case Studies from Cyprus

Xenia I. Loizidou(1) and Michael I. Loizides(2)

(1,2) ISOTECH Ltd Environmental Research and Consultancy, Nicosia, Cyprus
Tel: 00 357 22 452727, Fax: 00 357 22 458486
E-mail: info@isotech.com.cy, Website: www.isotech.com.cy

Abstract

Coastal zone is a dynamic environment and each coastal area is a unique natural system. Erosion control should be treated within the framework of an integrated coastal erosion management scheme and as an integral part of an Integrated Coastal Zone/ Area Management Plan. Erosion management is a multi-discipline task. It is not just an engineering problem. Environmental, social and economic parameters should be incorporate in the system, available tools such as EIA, SEA, Fiscal Instruments etc., should be implemented, public participation and civic engagement should be enhanced.

 

This paper addresses the above issues through the following case studies from Cyprus:
• The Environmental Impact Study for proposed coastal structures in Hrysohou Bay. EIS questioned the engineering solutions which were proposed for combating erosion, something which created conflicts with the coastal engineers, the local authority, the local community and the competent authorities and decision makers. The methodology/approach of this EIA/EIS will be presented in this paper, which was quite innovative for Cyprus, together with a description and evaluation of the conflicting situation.
• The pilot study on social perception for coastal erosion issues in the Dolos-Kiti area, which was prepared within the framework of EUROSION project (pilot study of Cyprus). The assessment of social perception was based on static and dynamic analysis, using existing knowledge and field surveys/questionnaires. The results of the beach users field survey will be presented and discussed in this paper.
• Demolition of one groyn in front of a hotel in Pafos. Work against prejudice that “good” coastal structures are only “hard” coastal structures.

 

 

Evolution of Rosetta Promontory on Nile Delta Coast during the Period from 1500 to 2005, Egypt

Walid R. El Sayed(1), Medhat A. Ali(1,2), Moheb M. Iskander(1,3) and Alfy M. Fanos(1,4)

(1) Coastal Research Institute, 15 El Pharaana Street, El Shallalat 21514, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: 2034844614, Fax: 2034844615
E-mail: walidelsayd@yahoo.com
(2) E-mail: mehna97@yahoo.com
(3) E-mail: coastal_alex@yahoo.com
(4) E-mail: alfy_fanous@yahoo.com

Abstract

Rosetta promontory is located on the eastern side of Abu-Quir Bay coast at about 60 km to the east of Alexandria city. At the beginning of the 20th century, erosion began to take place along the study area and was aggravated since the construction of the High Dam in 1964. Many protective works have been implemented and/or under construction since 1989 and up to the present time such as revetments on the tip of the promontory and then five and nine rubble mound groins along the eastern and western shores of the promontory. Erosion is not the only problem facing the area but sedimentation of Rosetta estuary exit is also taking place because of the littoral drift and the absence of the outflow of water from Rosetta branch. The continuous dredging of the exit failed to solve this problem. This study illustrates the evolution of the promontory during the last 500 years and the dynamic processes and environmental parameters affecting it. It also shows the impact of the protective works on the shoreline. The recommended solutions are: nourishment with hard structure to solve erosion problems of the promontory while dredging of the exit with a jetty to solve sedimentation problems of the estuary. More studies should be conducted by mathematical models.

 

 

Sediment Transport Pattern off Alamien Marina Resort, Egypt

Omran Frihy(1), Abo Baker Abo Zed(1,2), Morad Lotfy(1,3)
and Abd El Moniem Badr(1,3)

(1) Coastal Research Institute, 15 El Pharaana Street, El Shallalat, 21514, Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: + 203-4844615, Fax: + 203-4844614
E-mail: frihyomr@link.net
(2) E-mail: bakr4453@yahoo.com
(3) E-mail: coriegypt@yahoo.com

Abstract
Analyses have been undertaken of coastal processes, seabed morphology, grain size characteristics and mineralogical composition of beach and nearshore sand of the eroded zone east of Marina Resort at Alamien on the western Mediterranean coast of Egypt. The focus of this study is on the variations of the mineralogical and textural differences between terrigenous borrow sand and native carbonate sediments which are used as a marker or natural tracer to identify sediment provinces and transport trends away from the eroded beach. The study beach zone, 3.5-km long, lies down-drift of a series of jetties and groins built to mitigate beach erosion and control the entrances to the recreation lagoon artificially constructed parallel to the coastline. The periodic sand nourishment undertaken at this zone failed to maintain beach stability of this sector. The terrigenous/siliciclastics sand (80 x 103m3 /yr) which have been placed at this zone between 2002 and 2006, washed down and eventually dispersed somewhere by the action of waves and currents. As a result of natural mixing between nourished material and original sediments on the shelf area, two major sand types are identified in varying carbonate and terrigenous proportions. The first sand type is associated with fine-grained sediments which are relatively enriched in siliciclastic sand (Mz = 0.27 mm; sI = 0.72 Ø; carbonates = 83.7%; siliciclastics =16.3%), which is derived from the borrow material, flooring the inner zone up to <4m depth. The second type is coarse-grained sand mostly carbonate-dominated (Mz = 0.49 mm; sI = 0.80 Ø; carbonates = 89.4%; siliciclastics =10.6%), which is reworked and winnowed from older carbonate rocks of the submerged ridges. Our observations indicate that sediments are displaced easterly alongshore by the N and NW wave-induced longshore currents and also seaward (cross-shore) by down-slope dispersal where they deposited as thin veneer of mixed carbonate and siliciclastic sands between flanks and troughs of the submerged ridges that characterize the seabed of this region. Significant factors controlling the processes of sediment movement including rapid removal of borrow material are discussed including; submerged ridge geometry, downslope gravity, wave-induced currents which are controlled by the seafloor configuration, and by shoreline orientation relative to dominant N and NW waves and grain size suitability of borrow sand used for beach nourishment.

 

 

Central Nile Delta Sand Belt and Nourishment of Burg EL Burullus Village-Baltim Beach, Egypt

Morad F. Lotfy(1), Abo Baker I. Abo zed(1) and Moheb M. Iskander(1,2)

(1) Coastal Research Institute, 15 El Pharaana St. El Shallalet, 5124 Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2 03 4844615, Fax: +2 03 4844614
E-mail: bakr4453@yahoo.com
(2) E-mail: coastal_alex@.com
 

Abstract

Burg El Burullus Village Baltim beach resort which is located in the central part of the Nile Delta coast has experienced widespread erosion. In order to protect this beach, a 600m long concrete sea wall and the basalt revetment were constructed. These hard structures are not working efficiently in front of Burg El Burullus village and erosion is extending to the east. A total of 139 hand corers of 1m length and 17 vibro cores up to 4m length have been conducted on the inner continental shelf off the Burullus hump to search for suitable borrow sands to be used for the nourishment of the adjacent eroded beach. Two zones of offshore borrow sands are distinguished with total volume of 22.68 million m3. These sands are significantly coarser and less sorted than the original native beach sands. They are suitable for beach replenishment. In order to protect the Burg El Burullus village and broaden the beach between the village and the resort, about 2 million m3 of borrow sands should be used to create a new beach with a length of 9 km, width of 50 m and slope 1:10. The estimated overfill and renourishment factors for the investigated native and borrow sands are favorable for planning and design of the proposed nourishment project.

 

 

Monitoring of the First Complex Nourishment in Emilia-Romagna Region

Carlo Albertazzi(1), Mentino Preti(2) and Nunzio De Nigris(2,3)

(1) Environment, Soil and Coast Defence Directorate of Emilia-Romagna Region Via dei Mille, 21 40121 Bologna, Italy
Tel: +390516396865, Fax: +390516396941
E-mail: calbertazzi@ regione.emilia-romagna.it
(2) ARPA Enviromental Agency of Emilia Romagna Region, Vicolo Carega
340121 Bologna, Italy
Tel: +390512966310, Fax: +390512966338
E-mail: mpreti@arpa.emr.it
(3) E-mail: ndenigris@arpa.emr.it

Abstract

During the years 2002 the Technical Offices of the Emilia-Romagna Region Administration carried out the first complex artificial nourishment using sand coming from offshore borrow areas. From February 13th to May 6th 2002 almost 800.000 m3 of sand were dredged out from a submarine off shore dune and pumped in eight detached stretches of regional beaches. ARPA, the Environment Agency of Emilia-Romagna Region, was called to monitoring the behaviour of the beaches after the work, from its end till 2005. In this paper are explained, the survey methods and tools used, the subsequent data processing. Are also discussed the obtained results, especially are underlined the different behaviour between the submerged and emerged beaches, and the differences between the protected and not-protected beaches, in order to improvement the design and the execution of the next future nourishment.

 

 

Impact of Coastal Erosion and Sedimentation along the Northern Coast of the Sinai Peninsula

Magnus Larson(1), Hans Hanson(1,3), Yasser Hamed(2), Mohamed Balah(2,4), and Ehab Tolba(2,5)

(1) Water Resources Engineering, Lund University, Box 118,
22100 Lund, Sweden
Tel: + 46 46 2228729, Fax: + 46 46 2224435
E-mail: magnus.larson@tvrl.lth.se
(2) Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Suez Canal University, Port Said, Egypt
Tel: +20 12 4957827, Fax: +20 66 3400936
E-mail: yasser_ham@hotmail.com
(3) E-mail: Hans.Hanson@tvrl.lth.se
(4) E-mail: prof_balah @hotmail.com
(5) E-mail: civil_consu @yahoo.com

Abstract

Coastal processes affecting the erosion and sedimentation along the Sinai northern coastline were investigated. Annual net longshore sediment transport rates, from Port Said in Egypt to Ashqelon in Israel, were quantified and the regional patterns of erosion and accretion were determined. A detailed study on shoreline change induced by infrastructure placed on the coastline near El Arish was performed. The shoreline change at El Arish power plant and harbour were simulated using the one-line model GENESIS. After successfully reproducing the recorded shoreline change at these two locations, appropriate remedial measures were proposed to mitigate the erosion problems. A combination of hard and soft coastal engineering methods was developed to alleviate the dredging problems at the El Arish power plant, whereas sand-bypassing/beach-nourishment is suggested as an effective sustainable solution to the erosion problems east of El Arish harbour.

 

 

Numerical Model to Analyse a Groynes Protected Beach

Paolo Atzeni(1), Paola Letizia(1,2) and Michela Soldati(3)

(1) MED INGEGNERIA S.r.l., Via Panà 56/A
35027 Noventa Padovana (PD), Italy
Tel: + 39 049 8705567, Fax: +039 049 9819692
E-mail: paolo.atzeni@medingegneria.it
(2) E-mail: paola.letizia@medingegneria.it
(3) MED INGEGNERIA S.r.l., Via P. Zangheri 16,
48010 Fornace Zarattini (RA), Italy
Tel: +39 0544 467359, Fax: +39 0544 501984
E-mail: michela.soldati@medinegneria.it

Abstract

The littoral area of Lignano, Italian Adriatic North coast, on the East side of Tagliamento river mouth, has been protected by nine groynes during the past years, but it is still subjected to localized erosion problems, mainly as consequence of storm events.

 

The present work studied the littoral dynamics of the coastal area by means of numerical modelling, comparing the annual mean wave conditions with storm conditions and taking into account as well tidal effect and river input.

 

Offshore mean wave climate has been computed by a 16 years time series wave data recorded offshore of Venice. Comparing the fetches, wave data have been transformed from the recorded site, offshore of Venice, to the study area and than propagated onshore applying MIKE21-NSW model. Onshore mean annual wave conditions have been computed from the model results. A set of five representative waves has been selected based on the energy flux and therefore on the equivalence of wave energy and longshore sediment transport between representative and real waves. Each of these wave conditions has been used as input in the onshore propagation wave model, MIKE21-PMS. This model is based on a parabolic approximation to the elliptic mild-slope equation governing refraction, shoaling, diffraction and reflection of linear water waves propagating on gently sloping bathymetry. The computed radiation stress field is the force input for the littoral circulation computed by means of MIKE21-HD application. In this model high tidal level and river flow are taken into account as forcing parameters. Finally MIKE21-ST model has been applied to compute the littoral sediment transport for each wave condition. Integrating the result of every single wave condition according to its representative occurrence percentage, the annual littoral sediment transport is computed in order to evaluate the mean coastal dynamic trend.

 

Extreme waves conditions have been computed applying Gumbel statistic method for the main wave direction sectors. Following the same method littoral circulation and sediment transport have been computed for storm conditions, taking into account the concomitant high tidal level and river flow input. Model results show that according to annual mean wave condition the coastal area is in equilibrium, but under storm conditions the littoral transport occurs until a depth far offshore groyne’s tips and it is much higher in case of concomitant high tidal level. The actual defence system can’t provide enough protection during some particular storm events that will erode the beach, but the general coastal dynamic can re-build it after some times. The beach protection system should be manage according to this results as, right now, after storms sand is artificially distributed on the beach, changing the natural beach profile and consequently the natural dynamic that can provide a medium-long term equilibrium condition.

 

 

Longshore Sediment Transport Modelling: An Application to Ordu

Asu Inan(1), Mehmet Ülger(2) and Lale Balas(3)

(1) Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture,
Gazi University, 06570, Ankara, Turkey
Tel: +90 312 2319223, Fax: +90 312 2319223
E-mail: asuinan@gazi.edu.tr
(3) E-mail: mehmetulger@gazi.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: lalebal@gazi.edu.tr

Abstract

To simulate the long-term evolution of the beach of Cumhuriyet and Turna Suyu (city of Ordu) located at the Black Sea coastline of Turkey in response to imposed wave conditions and coastal structures, numerical model GENESIS (GENEralized Model for SImulating Shoreline Change) has been applied. The accurate modeling of shoreline change requires calculation of the nearshore waves using the actual bathymetry. As the external wave propagation model, the numerical model POTCAL-2 has been used. In POTCAL-2, the extended mild slope equation has been used to simulate refraction, diffraction, shoaling, reflection, bottom friction, breaking energy dissipation with nonlinear wave celerity and group velocity. Since wave model includes diffractive effects produced by an irregular bottom, it reduces the caustic generation as well as provides better accuracy than the pure internal refraction model of GENESIS. POTCAL-2 places values of wave height and direction at grid points on a nearshore reference line. From this line the internal wave model in GENESIS brings waves to breaking. Shoreline effects of eight offshore breakwaters proposed by Turkish Ministry of Transport and of alternative coastal protection structures are discussed.

 

 

Protection Measures for Improvement of the Zygi Coastal Section

Nicos Iacovou(1), Jason Sofos(1,2) and Stelios Zervos(1,3)

(1) Coastal Section, Public Works Department,
Ministry of Communications and Works, Cyprus
Tel: +357 – 22806620/22/23, Fax: +357-22498934
E-mail: niacovou@pwd.mcw.gov.cy
(2) E-mail: isofos@pwd.mcw.gov.cy
(3) E-mail: szervos@pwd.mcw.gov.cy

Abstract

This specific work presents the study for the protection and improvement of Zygi-Kiti coast, in conjunction with the development of a fishing shelter in the area, which was carried out during the last few years by the Government of Cyprus, Public Works Department, Ministry of Communication and Works. The study for the Fishing Shelter at Zygi was carried out by private consultants (Dion. Toumazis and Partners, 2002) and the Protection and Improvement of Zygi – Kiti coast was carried out by the Public Works Department, Coastal Section, in cooperation with the National Technical University of Athens (Laboratory of Harbour Works) (EMP, 2003).

 

 

Beach Drainage Technologies for Coastal Landscape Environmental Recovery

Carlo Donadio(1) and Renata Valente(2)

(1) University of Naples Federico II, Dept. of Earth Sciences, Largo San Marcellino, Naples, Italy
Tel/Fax: +39- 081- 5516155
E-mail: donadio@unina.it
(2) Second University of Naples, Dept. of Restoration and Construction of Architecture and Environment, via San Lorenzo, 81031 Aversa (CE), Italy
Tel: +39-0818140788, Fax: +39-0818141190
E-mail: renata.valente@unina2.it

Abstract

The application of a beach drainage technology with the modern technique RSA (beach recovery and stabilization) is a valid method to contrast active erosion processes. The paper shows better results obtained especially where still exists a minimal river sediment supply, through cases study of some Italy’s littorals. The technology is based on the constant drainage of the watertable present in the foreshore sand deposits, brought from the waves, by pierced pipes buried in parallel to the shoreline. This system concurs moreover to monitoring amount and quality of drained sea water and to use as a reservoir for the littoral environment. After a detailed analysis of case studios, considerations are done about the potential effects of the technology for future scenarios: the specific reuse of drained sea water and the sustainable reconfiguration of the coast features.

 

 

Coastal Engineering

Design of Coastal Protective Structure for Waves and Tsunami Affected Sea Front

J.S. Mani(1) and M.V. Ramana Murthy(2)

(1) Department of Ocean Engineering,
Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600 036
Tel: 091-44-22574806, Fax: 091-44-22570545
E-mail: jaysmani@yahoo.com
(2) ICMAM-PD, NIOT Campus, Pallikkaranai, Chennai 601302
Tel: 091-44-22460992, Fax: 091-44-22460657
E-mail: mvr@icmam.gov.in

Abstract

The recent Indian Ocean tsunami had devastating effect on the south coast of India. A coastal township located 65 Km. south of Chennai was severely affected by tsunami resulting in loss of lives and damage to the property. This coastal township spread over an area of about 5 Sq Km. is located on the sea front extending over 3.5 Km. along the coast. To mark the boundary of the coastal township, a rubble masonry boundary wall was constructed decade ago by the authorities. Natural supply of sediment by a river south of the coastal township ensured presence of 30 to 40m. wide beach in front of the boundary wall. An inlet is located midway on the 3.5 km stretch of the beachfront connecting a huge lake with the sea. Due to the breach of the boundary wall during tsunami, the authorities felt that a new concrete boundary wall shall be built to withstand tsunami and create additional beach features to reduce the intensity of incoming tsunami. This paper deals with a detail study on the characteristics of the beachfront, estimation of force induced by the tsunami on vertical wall, run up, design features for the concrete wall and associated modifications to the beach front which incorporates design of channel and sand dune along the beach. The paper further deals with the beach stabilization measures needed to ensure that the beach is never affected even during storms.

 

 

Effect of Wave Grouping to Overtopping and Reflection on Smoothed Dike

Chao-Fu Lin(1) and Jea-Tzyy Juang(2)

(1) Feng Chia University, Taichung City, Taiwan
Tel: +866-4-24512662, Fax: +886-4-24515827
E-mail: cflin@fcu.edu.tw
(2) Chienkuo Technology University, Changhua City, Taiwan
Tel: +866 –4-7135675, Fax: +866 –4-7135676
E-mail: jtjuang@ctu.edu.tw

Abstract

Overtopping rate is the major considering factor for determining the crest height and safety of dike. Except for relating to wave height and freeboard of dike, the overtopping rate should also have related to the characteristics of wave spectrum and wave train. Therefore, investigating the relationship between overtopping and characteristics of wave spectrum, wave train etc., could improve the calculation of overtopping rate. In addition, the calculation of reflection could also improved as the relationship between the reflection rate and groupiness factor can be defined.

 

In this research, laboratory experiments under different face slopes and wave conditions are performed to investigate effects of wave groups. The groupiness factor is adopted to represent the strength of wave group. It reveals that groupiness factor is a very significant parameter on overtopping and reflection of dike.

 

 

Morphodynamic Evolution of Diffracting Profiles - Preliminary Results

José M. Medina-Villaverde(1), Agustín Sánchez-Arcilla(2), José S. López(1,3) and Juan Manuel Prada(4)

(1) Spanish Marine Division of DHI Water Environment Health,
Isabel de Valois, 20. 28660 Boadilla del Monte, Madrid, Spain
Tel: +34 916 326 346, Fax: +34 916 324 296
E-mail: jmv@dhigroup.com
(2) Maritime Engineering Laboratory of the Technical University of Catalonia, Jordi Girona, 31. 08034 Barcelona, Spain
Tel: +34 934 016 472, Fax: +34 934 011 861
E-mail: agustin.arcilla@upc.es
(3) Technical University of Madrid, School of Civil Engineering, Ciudad Universitaria, s/n. Madrid, Spain
Tel: +34 916 332 242, Fax: +34 916 324 296
E-mail: jlg@dhigroup.com
(4) Technical Section of CEDEX-CEPYC, Antonio Lopez, 81. Madrid, Spain
Tel: +34 913 357 632, Fax: +34 916 324 296
E-mail: Juan.M.Prada@cedex.es

Abstract

At the present day, conventional models on morphodynamic evolution of the beach cross-shore profile are limited to the analysis of nearly cylindrical beaches. This is due to the simplification of the governing equation (flux energy conservation) assuming that the bathymetry is constant alongshore.

 

One of the biggest limitations induced by this assumption is that these models can’t be used on beaches with groins, or close to tidal inlets, river mouths, etc. This means that morphodynamic evolution of the cross-shore profile can’t be evaluated in many sites in which the engineer needs to analyze morphodynamic features of the shore.

 

This paper aims to show a very easy and cheap approach to analyze cross-shore profile on non-cylindrical beaches, simply by using a 2DH wave propagation model and a conventional 2DV cross-shore profile model. Respecting to the wave propagation model, the tool which should be used must account for wave refraction (all the models do), wave diffraction (not all the models do) and wave reflection (only a few models do). Also is convenient to account for variation of the peak period (only BW models do). Wave reflection can be important, since the main reason of a beach to be non-cylindrical generally consists of the existence of a groin or a natural salient, which is usually responsible of reflections of incident waves.

 

 

Size-Graded Coastal Zone Sediments under Waves

I. Kantardgi(1), V. Vaitman(2) and L. Prokhoda-Shumskikh(2)

(1) Moscow State Civil Engineering University, Dept. of Water Resources and
Sea Ports, 26 Yaroslavskoe Shosse, Moscow 129337 Russia
Tel: +7 495 2614721, Fax: +7 495 2614721
E-mail: kantardgi@yandex.ru
(2) Sochi State University on Tourism and Recreation
E-mail: ww1107@rambler.ru

Abstract

There are the important reasons for additional study of effects of sediment parameters (particle size, gradation, density) on the sediment transport. Particular, for the coastal beach nourishments the available material is used normally, and in the result the parameters of the existing beach and the additions may be different. In the existing models of sediment transport the sediments are represented usually by the uniform sediments with the representative particle diameter. It is well know that in reality the sea bottom and the beach material may has the sufficiently non-uniform size-distribution over the time and space. The beach profiles show the relation between morphological structure and sediment parameters. So, the study of the effects of sediment uniformality is the actual problem. The condition of threshold of motion of the size-graded fractions mixute of sediment is considered. The approach of Sutherland of modification of threshold condition of motion for a uniform material, adapting it to the case of graded sediments is applied. The threshold conditions in a given mixute can be represented in the (Θ - D*) plane, by a deformed traditional (uniform sediments) Shields’ curve, where Θ = τ / ( γs - γ) D is entraitment parameter, τ is the applied shear stress at the threshold of motion, γs , γ are the specific weights of the sediments and water, D is the grain diameter, D* = D [(s-1)g / ν2]1/3 is dimensionless grain diameter, s = γs / γ , ν is the kinematics viscosity of the water. Sediment discharge may be defined then by multi-fraction method, in which for each fraction the own condition of threshold of motion is applied. The special experiments have been carried out in the wave flume of the Shelf structures laboratory of Moscow State Civil Engineering University to study the effect of sediment grading on the sediment transport. In two serial of tests the same wave conditions have been applied, but in the first serial (mixute 1) the sediments were more uniform than in the second serial. The level of grading is presented by the coefficient Kx= D10\D60. For the mixute 1 Kx=2.73, and for the mixute 2 Kx=1.56. The results of the test show that the grading of beach material influences sufficiently on the beach deformation by waves. For both sand mixutes the final beach profile has the erosion type, with area of erosion in the upper part of the profile, and area of accumulation in the lower part. But the values of deformation in areas of erosion and accumulation are different for two sand mixutes. The results may be applied in modeling of the size-graded sediment transport including beach profile deformation. The including of multi-fraction formulaes of the sediment transport into the numerical models of beach deformation gives the final beach profiles which are satisfied to the measured ones. The directions of the future study are discussed.

 

 

The Study of the Interaction Water-Sediment in the Swash Zone Using the UDV

Mustapha Kamel Mihoubi (1), Michel Blorgey(2), Daniel Levacher(2,4), Ahmed Kettab(3)
and Mohammad Movahedan(2,5)

(1) High National School of Hydraulics (ENSH), M. Box 31 Blida (09000), Algeria
Tel: +213 25 39 94 47, Fax: +213 25 39-85-98
E-mail: mihkam@ensh.net
(2) Coastal and Continental Morphodynamics (M2C), University of Caen, Caen, France
Tel: +33 2 31 56 57 12, Fax: +33 2 31 56 57 57
E-mail: movahedan@meca.unicaen.fr
(3) National school of polytechnics (ENP), M.Box 52 Algiers (16000), Algeria
Tel: +213 2 21 82 33 80, Fax: +213 2 82 33 79
E-mail: Kettab@yahoo.fr
(4) E-mail: daniel.levacher@unicaen.fr
(5) E-mail: movahedan@unicaen.fr

Abstract

The importance of-and the predicted increase in-the natural risks due to climate change will affect the coastal areas in numerous ways, which requires, more than ever, the installation of means and preventive solutions for a durable protection of the coastal system. For this purpose, the controls of coastal sedimentary dynamics under the physical and anthropogenic constraints have become important because the economical and social stake for durable development of the coastal zones have become higher. Our interest in the morphodynamic study of the swash zone, regarded as a fragile and dynamic area of the beach, particularly unforeseeable of the littoral, owing to the fact that it constitutes a true border between the marine field and the continental field. The swash zone is, under the effect of the interaction of the wave and the sediments, characterized by various parameters, such as, cut particles, porosity and homogeneity of particles among others, deserve to be elucidated to include and to understand the principle of operation within this zone. Here we present the results of calibration and measurements of the water-sediments interface experiment carried out in the channel of steady flow (L3.0 m x H0.25m x W0.10 m). Thereafter, the results are extrapolated to study the behaviour of velocity profile and the interaction of solid particles (sands) and water in the swash zone (the swell channel (L25 m x H1.0 m x W0.8m)) using Ultrasonic Doppler Velocimetry (UDV).

 

 

The Influence of Aspect Ratio on Vortex Evolution Induced by a Solitary Wave Propagating over a Cavity

C. Lin(1), T.C. Ho(1,2) and C. S. Chang(1,3)

(1) National Chung Hsing University, Department of Civil Engineering,
Taichung 402, Taiwan
Tel: +886-4-22855182, Fax: +886-4-22862857
E-mail: clin@mail.ce.nchu.edu.tw
(2) E-mail: d9162202@mail.nchu.edu.tw
(3) E-mail: jessica_chang46@hotmail.com

Abstract

The vortex shedding process induced by a solitary wave propagating over a symmetric cavity was studied experimentally, using the particle image velocimetry (PIV) technique and flow visualization technique. The wave height of the solitary wave is 1.4 cm, and the wave height (H) to water depth (h) of the experiment is 0.2. The ratio of the length to the depth of the cavity, Ar, was defined as aspect ratio. The vortex shedding processes were investigated particularly for Ar = 0.5 using the flow visualization technique and PIV. The quantitative characteristics of shedding primary vortex in the cavity, such as the trajectories of the vortex core and jet like flow, vorticity of the primary vortex core, and the circulation of the primary vortex, were studied in detail. Finally, it is found that all the characteristics change obviously while Ar is less than 1.0.

 

 

Influence of the Wave Energy Spectrum on Frequency Spectrum of Suspended Sediments Transport

Igor Podymov(1) and Tatiana Podymova(1,2)

(1) P. P. Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Southern Branch
353467, Blue Bay, Gelendzhik-7, Russia
Tel: +7 86141 28069, Fax: +7 86141 28089
E-mail: podymov@coastdyn.ru
(2) E-mail: tpodymova@inbox.ru

Abstract

Theoretical numerical models for transport of suspended sediments need to confirm with experimental data. Moreover, experimental data needed for development of new conceptions of approach to creation of such models that work in expanded range of boundary conditions.

 

Comparison of the frequency spectrum of suspended sediments with the wave energy spectrum, using the experimental data, led to interesting results. Proposed report will provide detailed information about results of data handling.

 

 

Prediction Model of Swell Wave at East Coast of Taiwan

Jea-Tzyy Juang(1) and Chao-Fu Lin(2)

(1) Chienkuo Technology University, 500 Changhua, Taiwan
Tel: +886 47135675, Fax: +88 647135676
E-mail: jtjuang@ctu.edu.tw
(2) Fen Chia University, 407 Taichung, Taiwan
Tel: +886 4 24512662, Fax: 886 424512662
E-mail: cflin@fcu.edu.tw

Abstract

In this study, three kinds of typhoon wave prediction method which proposed at past years were applied to predict the typhoon waves inside the typhoon area. The first method was suggested by Bretschneider et al. (1976). The second method was proposed by Shore Protection Manual (2001). The third method was proposed by Rodolfo and Gustavo (2002). As to the calculating equation of swell wave that proposed by Liang et al. (2003) was applied too. Result shows the predicted value by the original prediction method have obvious discrepancy to the measured value. After revised the amassing and retrogressing effect coefficient and the decay coefficient, the computational result becomes more precise.

 

 

Parametric Wave Modelling, A Case Study

Cihan Sahin(1), Burak Aydogan(1,2), Esin Ozkan Cevik(1,3)
ve Yalcin Yuksel(1,4)

(1) Yildiz Technical University, 34349 Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: + 90 212 259 70 70/2724, Fax: + 90 212 259 67 62
E-mail: cisahin@yildiz.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: baydogan@yildiz.edu.tr
(3) E-mail: cevik@yildiz.edu.tr
(4) E-mail: yuksel@yildiz.edu.tr

Abstract

In this study, it is intended to develop a parametric model to predict wave characteristics as time series for a region. The newly developed parametric wave prediction model uses the equations given by CERC (1984) for the calculation of the wave height and period, hence the equations include wind duration, wind velocity and fetch to calculate the wave parameters. To obtain the time series of wave parameters, some assumptions and trials with these parameters were made and investigated in detail. The results obtained from the model compared to the wave measurements over 8.5 months at the Southwest coast of Black Sea to test the goodness of the model. The model gives very reasonable results for the prediction of wave height, wave period and wave direction.

 

 

Dynamic Modelling of Coastal Water Quality

L. Prokhoda-Shumskih(1), Y. Dreizis(1,2) and I. Kantardgi(3)

(1) Sochi State University of Tourism and Recreation, Dept. of Information
Technologies, 26A Sovetskaya Str., 354000 Sochi, Russia
Tel: +8-8622-68 91 05, Fax: +8-8622-648-790
E-mail: prohoda_net@list.ru
(2) E-mail: Yurid2006@yandex.ru
(3) Moscow State Civil Engineering University, Dept. of Water Resources and Sea
Ports, 26 Yaroslavskoe Shosse, Moscow 129337 Russia
Tel: +7 495 2614721, Fax: +7 495 2614721
E-mail: kantardgi@yandex.ru

Abstract

Growth of anthropogenic load on a coastal zone of the sea in the last years in connection with increase in number of tourists and building of coastal structures has led to an aggravation of many environmental problems. The majority of them are connected with the sea water quality control. Possible prospects of their solution are connected with realization of the concept of “sustainable development” - sustainable coexistence of mankind and the nature, and the basic method of that is the water quality modelling. A plenty of parameters is used to provide the fullness and objectivity of the estimation of quality of superficial waters now. The choice of important for application of 10 parameters from 40-45 proves in the presented model. To increase the accuracy and informative of forecasts for the coastal zone conditions the system-dynamic model has been developed, what allows to estimate the quality of the sea water, including that in the semi-enclosed coastal water areas with the limited water exchange. The model of water quality in the coastal zone includes the equations of deposit concentration changes and chemical substances evolution in the studied areas. The model incorporates joint description of cycles of two biogenic elements - nitrogen and phosphorus. The system is completely defined by the biogeochemical reactions. The sizes of such water areas allow the applying the full mixing and zero-dimensional models of water quality. The circulation of water inside the area is taken into account additionally. Water exchange in the semi-enclosed coastal water areas is defined by the discharge through the open parts of area border. The novelty of the offered model is its adaptation to the specific conditions of semi-enclosed coastal water areas. Then the coastal engineering projects which include the effects of partly enclosed by structure areas with limited water exchange and high intensity of pollution concern. At the same time, the model contains details of the biogeochemical processes to complete modelling of the water quality. The developed system dynamics model is realized in the «PowerSim Studio» media. The data of natural measurements of water quality are applied for the model verification, and the correlated numerical results for the Russian Black Sea coast are presented. The including of the coastal water quality model into the procedures of the integrated coastal area management is also discussed.

 

 

Estimation of Inland Extend of Dynamic Water Table within Reclaimed Marine Islands

O. Kabbany(1), Ahmed S. M. Ahmed(2) and S. Eissa(3)

(1) Geotechnical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
(2) National Water Research Center, Hydraulics Research Institute, Delta Barrage 13621, Egypt
Tel: + 202-4218-8268, Fax: + 202-4218-9539
E-mail: ahmed@hri-egypt.org
(3) Irrigation and Hydraulics Department, Faculty of Engineering, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt

Abstract

Transient flow was computed with PLAXISFLOW model to determine the inland extend of dynamic water table within a square shaped reclaimed island. Water level verification caused by tide and superimposed with storm surge was specified at the island periphery. A sensitivity analysis was carried out by altering permeability coefficients, storm surge and tidal amplitude. The model results showed that the tidal influences decay few tenths of meters inland within the island the results of the sensitivity analysis are in agreement with the findings of previous research works (Newman et al., 2006, Turner et al., 1997). Such results showed that the water level inside the island decreases to the static level within a distance inland that depends on the input parameters. The model results focused on deriving the inland extent of dynamic water table as a function of input parameters at the island’s periphery to reach the static level within the island. Correlation between the inland extent of dynamic water table and permeability of reclamation material, storm surge and tidal amplitude was investigated a simplified equation using regression analysis was developed. Such simplified equation may be used for preliminary determination of inland extent of dynamic water table, and consequently the island reclamation level, which is helpful for preliminary design purposes and cost estimates. For detailed design, such distance may be confirmed using a few runs of PLAXISFLOW or similar software, therefore, reducing time and cost consumed in carrying out runs for all design conditions at the preliminary design stage.

 

 


Hydrodynamics

Hydro-dynamical Features and Transport Processes in Alexandria Coastal Area

K. A. Alam El-Din

Alexandria University, Faculty of Science, Oceanography Department,
21511-Alexandria, Egypt
E-mail: Alam_eldin@lycos.com

Abstract

Coastal water in front of Alexandria city receives a huge amount of marineants, namely domestic wastewater, industrial wastewater, agricultural drainage and petroleum products. Therefore transportation of such pollutants becomes important to be predicted. The wind, current and wave data collected during the 2nd Phase of Alexandria wastewater project, were analyzed in order to study the hydro-dynamical factors affecting the transport processes along Alexandria coastal area. The analyzed current measurements gave evidence to the circulation pattern in this area. The long shore current is predominant regime which is mostly directed north-eastward under the influence of the north-westerly wind and sometimes directed south-westward when the wind has an easterly component. The annual means of the current speed ranged between 20.2 cm/s near-surface and 7.2 cm/s near-bottom with a maximum recorded speed of 68 cm/s. The mean significant wave height (Hs) was 0.74 m with maximum Hs 2.85 m. The predominant wave directions were NW and WNW.

 

 

Exchange of Water in the Stratified Zrmanja Estuary (Adriatic Sea)

Goran Olujic(1), Hrvoje Mihanovic(1,2), Marina Caric(3) and Zvonko Gržetic(1,4)

(1) Hydrographic Institute of the Republic of Croatia
Zrinsko Frankopanska 161, 21000 Split, Croatia
Tel: +385-21-361840, Fax: +385-21-347242
E-mail: goran.olujic@hhi.hr
(2) E-mail: hrvoje.mihanovic@hhi.hr
(3) Institute for Marine and Coastal Research
Kneza Damjana Jude 12, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia
Tel: +385-20-323484, Fax: +385-20-323872
E-mail: marina.caric-gluncic@unidu.hr
(4) E-mail: zvonko.grzetic@hhi.hr

Abstract

The paper presents the estimation of flushing time in the Zrmanja Estuary. The method used is based on adapted Knudsen’s hydrographic theorem. Flushing time is defined as the time needed to replace the volume of the estuary with new fresh water coming from the river flow. It was calculated by using the salt balance and water balance in the estuary. Water balance between stations and salt balance in the Zrmanja Estuary were computed from the river flow and salinity profiles measured in the estuary. The LOICZ model was applied (Land-Ocean Interactions in the Coastal Zone) and the computation included the determination of halocline depth at the stations as well as average values of salinity above and below the halocline. The shortest flushing time in the Zrmanja Estuary was determined in spring season (around 1.5 days) whilst the longest flushing time was observed for summer season (about 8.6 days). The time needed to exchange the water in the estuary during autumn and winter was about 3 days.

 

 

3D Modelling of Density Induced Coastal Currents

Lale Balas(1) and Senem Tunaboylu(2)

Gazi University, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture,
Civil Eng. Dept., Ankara, Turkey
Tel: (90) 312 2319223, Fax: (90) 312 2308434
(1) E-mail: lalebal@gazi.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: senemtunaboylu@yahoo.com

Abstract

In this work, a three dimensional numerical model has been developed to simulate the density induced currents in coastal water bodies. In the model, sigma coordinate transformation and finite difference approximations on a staggered grid have been applied. Water depths are divided into the same number of layers following the bottom topography. In this baroclinic numerical model, three dimensional water salinity and temperature distributions and in turn water density distributions and density induced circulations have been simulated over complex bathymetries. Developed model has been applied to Fethiye Bay located in the Mediterranean coastline of Turkey, in which there exists site measurements.

 

 

Hydrodynamics in a Mussel Culture Area in Thermaikos Gulf

Yiannis Savvidis(1), Alexander Antoniou(1,2), Xenofon Dimitriadis(1,3), Amalia Moriki(1,4), Sofia Galinou-Mitsoudi (1,5), Lydia Alvanou(1,6), Dimitris Petridis(7), Christopher Koutitas(8)

(1) Alexander Technological Educational Institute of Thessaloniki, Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology, N. Moudania, Chalkidiki, Greece
Tel: +302373026457, Fax: +302373026450
E-mail: savvidis@aqua.teithe.gr
(2) E-mail: alexander_antoniou@yahoo.gr
(3) E-mail: xenofond@yahoo.com
(4) E-mail: moriki@aqua.teithe.gr
(5) E-mail: galimits@otenet.gr
(6) E-mail: manitou@mailbox.gr
(7) Alexander Technological Educational Institute of Thessaloniki, Department of Food Technology, Sindos, Thessaloniki, Greece
Tel: +302310791375, Fax: +302310791375
E-mail: petridis@food.teithe.gr
(8) Department of Civil Engineering,
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
Tel: +302310995701, Fax: +302310995658
E-mail: koutitas@civil.auth.gr

Abstract

The hydrodynamic circulation in a marine coastal zone containing mussel cultures (in Thermaikos Gulf) is studied in this work. The research is also focused on the relation between the hydrodynamics and the long line mussel culture units in the basin. These units modify the flow due to the friction caused by the mussel socks in the water column. The study was based on field measurements in combination with a mathematical model. Four stations have been selected for the research with three of them corresponding to mussel units. The model results were in good agreement with the field data. The research revealed that under the influence of northwestern winds, an east bound current, parallel to the northeast coastline, is developed to the northeast part of the basin while a south bound current to the southwest part of the basin, near the coastline. The reduction of the currents’ velocity, between the positions outside and inside the units was more than 30%. The effect of the hydrodynamics to relevant environmental conditions and mussel production is preliminarily discussed.

 

 

Summer Current Conditions in the Gökova Bay

Hüsne Altiok(1), A. Edip Müftüoglu(1,2) and H. I. Sur(1,3)

(1) Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, Istanbul University, Turkey
Tel: + 90312210 54 37, Fax: + 90312210 14 12
E-mail: altiokh@istanbul.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: edip@istanbul.edu.tr
(3) E-mail: sur@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

The hydrography and circulation characteristics of the Gökova Bay were examined by using ADCP and CTD data collected in June 2005, May and July 2006. The influence of the meteorological conditions was also considered together with the oceanographic data.

In measurement period, temperature and salinity profiles indicated two important features in the Gökova Bay. One of them was influence of fresh water inputs into the bay from the rivers. While salinity of the water column was almost 39psu in the Gökova Bay, surface salinity decreased to 36.3psu in the interior region of the bay. The most intense fresh water input was found in June 2006 among the observation periods. The other feature was constituted thermocline in June and July. In May 2006, the temperature was in the range of 18-20°C in the surface, and it slightly decreased with depth. On the other hand, there was a thermocline at a depth of about 25m in June 2005 and July 2006 since the surface temperature increased to about 23-25°C.

The current velocities varied according to hydrographic and meteorological conditions. When the thermocline existed, the current profiles also showed two different layers separated at the same depth of thermocline in the water column. The current speed was ~10cm/s with northeasterly direction in the upper depths, and it slowed down in the thermocline. Below the thermocline, the current was in opposite direction with a speed of 15cm/s. The upper layer current speed and direction in the Gökova Bay were related to sea breeze which locally called Imbat.

Water exchange between the Gökova Bay and the Aegean Sea occurs along the east-west direction due to geographic location of the bay and dominant winds. The cross ADCP transect in the entrance of the bay indicates that in the south; the current direction was into the bay and in the north; it is out of the bay. The surface salinity which decreased along the coast of the bay due to fresh water inputs supports the explanation of this circulation pattern.

 

 

Tidal Wave Characteristics in A Multi Ebb-flood Channel Estuary

Anh Duc Nguyen(1), Hubert H.G. Savenije(1,2) and Zheng Bing Wang(1,3)

(1) Department of Water Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Applied Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, 2600GA Delft, the Netherlands
Tel: + 31-15-278 21 10, Fax: + 31-15-278 5080
E-mail: a.d.nguyen@tudelft.nl
(2) E-mail: h.h.g.savenije@tudelft.nl
(3) WL?Delft Hydraulics, Rotterdamseweg 185, 2629 HD, Delft, the Netherlands
E-mail: zheng.wang@wldelft.nl

Abstract

This paper aims at: (i) Exploring the characteristics of the tidal wave propagation in the Scheldt Estuary, which is a multi- (ebb and flood) channel estuary located in the Netherlands and Belgium; and (ii) Testing the agreement between the analytical equation describing tidal celerity of Savenije and Veling (2005), a hydrodynamic model, and observations. Observations in alluvial estuaries indicate that a damped tidal wave moves slower than is indicated by the classical equation for wave celerity, whereas the celerity is higher if the tidal wave is amplified. The tidal wave in the Scheldt Estuary is strongly amplified and therefore the tidal wave moves considerably faster than computed by the classical equation. In this paper, this comparison is made for the situations of June 1995 and 1998. Moreover, the characteristics of the tidal wave propagation in the multi-ebb and flood channel estuary are analyzed. Finally, it appears that the analytical equation and the hydrodynamic model have their own strong and weak points. Recommendations are made to improve the performance of the hydrodynamic model.

 

 

Sea Level Change

Seasonal and Long Term Variations of Sea Level and Meteorological Conditions along the Egyptian Coasts

K. A. Alam El-Din(1), Saad M. Abdelrahman(2) and M. El Meligy

(1) Alexandria University, Faculty of Science, Oceanography Department,
21511-Alexandria, Egypt
E-mail: Alam_eldin@lycos.com
(2) Nautical Department, Arab Academy for Science and Technology,
E-mail: smesbah@aast.edu

Abstract

Lengthy records of sea level and meteorological conditions along the Egyptian Mediterranean and Red Sea coasts were utilized to investigate their seasonal and long term variations. The mean sea level (MSL) oscillations were analyzed at Alexandria, Port Said and Suez having 80 years of annual MSL data and 25 years of monthly means of both MSL and meteorological data up to the end of 2006. Linear MSL trend and seasonal oscillations were investigated. A pronounced seasonal fluctuation of the monthly MSL was observed being higher in summer and lower in winter at Alexandria and Port Said, while at Suez, it demonstrated the opposite. The results indicated a positive MSL trend rate at the three stations with 1.97 mm/y, 2.87 mm/y, 1.09 mm/y at Alexandria, Port Said and Suez respectively. The spectral analysis of the hourly data showed a predominant semidiurnal peak at all stations, while the spectrum of the monthly MSL, and meteorological parameters showed significant annual peaks. The correlation analysis indicated a direct relation between MSL and air temperature and was inversely proportional with atmospheric pressure at both the Mediterranean ports. While, in the Red Sea (at Suez), the MSL has a negative correlation with air temperature and a positive correlation with the atmospheric pressure in agreement with earlier studies.

 

 

Recent Sea Level Change at Durban and Implications for Management

Gerald Garland(1) and Andrew Mather(2)

(1) University of United Arab Emirates, Al Ain, UAE
Tel: +97 13 76709495, Fax: +97 13 7679425
E-mail: Gerald.g@uaeu.ac.ae
(2) Thekwini Municipality, Durban, South Africa
Tel: + 27 31 3117281, Fax: + 27 31 3056952
E-mail: mather@durban.gov.za

Abstract

Global prediction of sea level change based on historical tide gauge records with 50 years data or more may be unreliable, since many gauge sites are located at the instable edge of continental plates, on river deltas or along coasts which are subject to post glacial rebound. Such results cannot be assumed to reflect eustatic sea level change only, but could indicate a local change in land height due to tectonism or some other reason. Emery and Aubrey (1991) identified only 36 gauge records from stable coastlines. Only 3 of these were from southern Africa, all on the west coast. This new analysis of Durban’s tidal gauge record, details some of the problems encountered, and outlines implications of the results for managing the south east African shoreline. The paper concludes that seal level has increased by 2.7mm annually off the Durban coastline during the last 30 years, and excessive damage caused by a recent coastal erosion event attributed to a storm surge may in part be a response to higher sea level in the region. The revised data may now be used as an effective planning and management tool.

 

 

Coastal and Marine Geology

Fan Deltas Geomorphology in the Northern Coast of Gulf of Corinth, Greece

Efthimios Karymbalis

Department of Geography, Harokopio University, 70 El. Venizelou Str.
17671 Athens, Greece
Tel: + 30 210 9549159, Fax: + 30 210 9514759
E-mail: karymbalis@hua.gr

Abstract

This study deals with the geomorphology of thirteen, Late Holocene, coastal alluvial fans formed by high-gradient braided streams and torrents that deposit their sediment load of coarse detritus along the northern coast of the western Gulf of Corinth in Central Greece. The dynamic factors affecting the formation and evolution of the coastal alluvial fans are briefly discussed. The morphology of the fans is qualitatively and quantitatively described. Three different morphological fan types were recognized based on their geomorphological characteristics. Large basins appear to produce large gently sloping fans with a rapidly shifting shoreline. Morphometric parameters associated with the fans and their feeder systems (drainage basins) were estimated using Geographical Information Systems techniques. The correlation between geomorphological features of the fans and their drainage basins were also examined. A strong positive relation was found between the size of the fan and the drainage basin area while the power function that describes this relationship resembles those proposed by other authors for arid regions.

 

 

Quantitative Morphometric Analysis of the Evinos River Delta (Western Greece)

Efthimios Karymbalis(1), Christos Chalkias(1,2) and George Stournaras(3)

(1) Department of Geography, Harokopio University, 70 El. Venizelou Str. 17671 Athens, Greece
Tel: + 30 210 9549159, Fax: + 30 210 9514759
E-mail: karymbalis@hua.gr
(2) Tel: + 30 210 9549347, Fax: + 30 210 9514759
E-mail: xalkias@hua.gr
(3) Department of Geology and Geoenvironment, National University of Athens, 15784 Panepistimioupolis, Athens, Greece
Tel: + 30 210 7274406, Fax: + 30 210 7274096
E-mail: stournaras@geol.uoa.gr

Abstract

In this study a quantitative morphometric analysis of the Evinos river delta, located on the northern side of the Gulf of Patras in western Greece, is attempted. The method applied in the present paper constitutes an upgraded methodology initially proposed by Wright and Coleman in 1973. Delta morphometry focuses on deltaic sedimentary protrusion (both sub-aerial and sub-aqueous) and constitutes a quantitative way to relate fluvial and marine processes to the morphology of the delta. Morphometric parameters which express the distribution of the fluvial sediment volume as well as indices, indicative of the sub-aqueous morphology of the delta, were calculated for each side of the main central length axis of the Evinos river deltaic prominence. A spatial database derived from detailed analogue topographic diagrams and hydrographic maps was constructed for the broader study area. Measurements and calculations were made using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) functions. Quantitative results are in agreement with the oceanographic conditions of the gulf of Patras as well as with the geomorphological features along the deltaic coastline. It was concluded that wave activity and longshore currents are the dominant processes responsible for the recent configuration of the delta, particularly for its eastern part.

 

 

Tectonic and Coastal Features of Lake Iznik, Turkey

Kurultay Öztürk(1), Bedri Alpar(1,2), Cenk Yaltirak(3) and Denizhan Vardar(1,4)

(1) Institute of Marine Sciences and Management, 34116 Vefa, Istanbul, Turkey,
Tel: +90 212 528 25 39, Fax: + 90 212 526 84 33
E-mail: kurultay@istanbul.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: alparb@istanbul.edu.tr
(3) Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Mines, Department of Geological
Engineering Maslak, Istanbul
Tel: + 90 212 285 62 98 Fax: +90 212 285 60 80
E-mail: yaltirak@itu.edu.tr
(4) E-mail: denizhan@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

Lake Iznik is a fresh water lake in the Marmara region and located on a highly tectonically active region along a plate boundary. Numerous destructive earthquakes occurred in the last 2,000 years, a few events accompanied with some abnormal waves. Due to its thick sedimentary deposits, high resolution seismic reflection data can only show uppermost sedimentary and tectonic processes. The southern sub-basin of the lake is the most distinguished geomorphic feature since it is formed by the activities of middle branch of North Anatolian Fault. Seismic records of the Quaternary and Pliocene fluvio-lacustrine sediments indicate high sedimentation rates mainly along the rims. The profiles of the streams, as the main inputs of the terrigenous sediments on the bottom of the lake, are steep even the catchment area is relatively small. The deltas with reed vegetation can be estimated as potential risk areas for coastal failures and liquefaction during earthquakes.

 

 

Grain Size Distribution and Related Depositional Conditions on the Modern Patara Beach
(SW-Turkey)

Mustafa Ergin(1), Zehra Karakas(2), Koray Sözeri (3) and Serdar Özdogan(4)

(1) Ankara University, 06100 Ankara, Turkey
Tel: + 90-312-212 67 20/1199, Fax: + 90-312-215 04 87
E-mail: ergin@eng.ankara.edu.tr
(2) Ankara University, 06100 Ankara, Turkey
Tel: + 90-312-212 67 20/1334, Fax: + 90-312-215 04 87
E-mail: karakas@eng.ankara.edu.tr
(3) Ankara University, 06100 Ankara, Turkey
Tel: + 90-312-212 67 20/1153, Fax: + 90-312-215 04 87
E-mail: sozeri@eng.ankara.edu.tr
(4) Ankara University, 06100 Ankara, Turkey
Tel: + 90-312-212 67 20/1199, Fax: + 90-312-215 04 87
E-mail: serdarozdogan@yahoo.com

Abstract

Patara or Esen Delta Beach is situated between the Towns of Mugla and Antalya, southwest of Turkey and it is one of the longest and best known beaches not only of Turkey but also of the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is about 15 km long and is built up by a combination of physical processes, the fluvial and terrigenous input of the River Esen (also known as River Xanthos) and the alongshore wave and current regimes of the sea. This study is supported by the Foundation for Scientific Research Projects of the Ankara University (Project: 20050745035). To investigate the depositional sedimentary characteristics and the controlling factors along the modern Patara Beach, in 2005, 26 shoreline and 21 backshore surficial (topmost 5 cm) sediment samples were taken and subjected to detailed grain size analysis according to petrographic procedures as described in Folk (1980) whereby sieving through screens were applied for grain size fractions; for pebble (> 4 mm), granule (4-2 mm), very coarse sand (2-1 mm), coarse sand (1-0,5 mm), medium sand (0,5-0,25 mm), fine sand (0,25-0,125 mm) and very fine sand (0,125-0,063 mm). It is found that, with a few exceptions, fine sand constitute the dominant grain size fraction in the northwestern part of the beach. Here, sediments contained 58 to 95 % fine sand and 3 to 42 % medium sand. Other fractions contained below 10 % of the bulk sediment. In the central (at or near the river mouth) and southeastern part sediments are dominated by medium sand (41 to 86 % of bulk sediment). From northwest to southwest, fine sand fraction tends to remain nearly the same in the farther northwest and decrease towards the central part where amounts of fine sand are lower but nearly constant. Fine sand fractions show another increasing tendency in the southeast. In many cases, shoreline sediments are slightly more coarser-grained than the backshore sediments. Changing grain size compositions of the Patara Beach can be explained by the varying conditions of terrigenous input from the Esen River and its tributaries, type and intensity of alongshore currents and the changes in coastal morphologies.

 

 

On Formation of Perylene in Sediments from Gulf of Gemlik, Turkey

Selma Ünlü(1) and Bedri Alpar(1,2)

(1) Istanbul University, Institute of Marine Science and Management,
34116, Vefa, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: + 90-212-440 00 00/26087, Fax: + 90-212-526 84 33
E-mail: su@istanbul.edu.tr
(2) E-mail: alparb@istanbul.edu.tr

Abstract

Perylene is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) that has been found widely in a variety of depositional environments and riverine sediments. It is the most important diagenetic PAH and also produced by in situ degredation of biogenic precursors. Meanwhile, anthropogenic perylene in the aquatic systems could be introduced via terrestrial runoff or airborne particulates and different emission sources. High abundances of perylene relative to other PAHs can indicate origin of the compound. In this study, surficial sediments from Gulf of Gemlik, Turkey were analyzed for special PAH compound ratios, such as Perylene/SPAHs, Perylene/Penta-aromatic isomers, Pyrene/Perylene, Benzo(e)pyrene/Perylene using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Having a wide range of concentrations (0.1 to 485 ng/g, dry weight), the highest concentrations of perylene were observed in Gemlik harbour, its anchoring areas, near shore cable and petroleum plants at Güzelyali, close to urbanized towns in the south (Mudanya, Kursunlu and Trilye) and even some resorts areas along the northern coast. High concentrations of perylene relative to penta-aromatic isomers, as detected between 10-75%, indicate diagenetic origin for the presence of perylene. Low level of perylene might have been derived from the anthropogenic inputs, caused by either local effluent or atmospheric dry deposition.

 

 

Remote Sensing & GIS

Assessment of Pressures on the Coastal Zone by using Satellite Images

C. Lopez y Royo(1,3) and G. Casazza(1,2)

(1) APAT – Agency for Environmental Protection & TS – Inland and Marine
Waters Department, via Brancati 47, 00144 Rome, Italy
Tel: +39-06-50072361, Fax: +39 06 50072216
E-mail: cecilia.lopezyroyo@apat.it
(2) E-mail: gianna.casazza@apat.it
(3) University of Corsica, Faculty of Sciences, EqEL, 20250 Corte, France
 

Abstract

The Mediterranean coastal area is subject to a continuous population growth in coastal areas, which leads to an increase in human-induced pressures such as urbanisation, productive activities, waste disposal, and higher exploitation of natural resources, with their consequent impact on the surrounding environment and ecosystems. It is therefore increasingly important to be able to identify areas that are subject to significant pressures, in order to target management plans and remedial actions efficiently. A number of regional, national and international institutions carry out data collection programmes and data reporting on similar sets of pressure indicators. However, there seems to be a lack of synthesis of the available data and information that would be essential, in terms of environmental management and decision-taking. The purpose of this paper is to present a simple, time- and cost-efficient method, based on the use of satellite images that may be used as tools for a synthetic, preliminary evaluation of human-induced pressures on the coastal zone. The paper presents the application of the pressure assessment method to selected areas of the Italian coastal zone. The accuracy and significance of the method, as well as its efficiency and applicability is discussed.

 

 

Coupling between Algal Blooms and Wind Patterns in two Near-Coastal Regions of the Mediterranean Sea

V. Barale(1) and M. Gade(2)

(1) European Commission, DG Joint Research Centre, Institute for
Environment and Sustainability, TP 272, 21020 Ispra (VA), Italy
Tel: +39-0332-789274, Fax: +39-0332-789034
E-mail: vittorio.barale@jrc.it
(2) Universität Hamburg, Institut für Meereskunde,
Bundesstraße 53, D-20146 Hamburg, Germany
Tel: +49-40-428385450, Fax: +49-40-428387471
E-mail: martin.gade@zmaw.de

Abstract

A comparison of SeaWiFS and QuikScat data, for 2000-2007, was used to explore the coupling between algal blooms and wind patterns in two near-coastal regions of the Mediterranean Sea. Phytoplankton growth in this oligotrophic basin is always nutrient-limited. Oligotrophy increases from west to east, except for near-coastal hotspots, corresponding to sources of continental runoff, or to areas, and periods, in which atmospheric forcing creates specific conditions that trigger the sequence of convective processes, nutrient upwelling and algal blooms. In the Gulf of Lion and in the Rhodes-Ierapetra gyre system, blooming reflects the prevailing wind patterns. Although highly dynamic, and unstable, the same surface features recur systematically in both regions.

 

 

Marine Surface Films in the Coastal Zone: What can We Learn Using Remote Sensing Data?

Martin Gade(1), Valborg Byfield(2), Stanislav Ermakov(3), Andrey Kostianoy(4), Olga Lavrova(5), Ramiz Mamedov(6), Leonid Mitnik(7), José da Silva(8), Sergey Stanichny(9), and David Woolf(2)

(1) Institut für Meereskunde, Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
Tel: +49 40 42838 5450, Fax: 7471, E-mail: martin.gade@zmaw.de
(2) National Oceanography Centre, Southampton, UK
Tel: +44 2380 596 405, Fax: 400,
E-mail: valborg@noc.soton.ac.uk / dkw@noc.soton.ac.uk
(3) Institute of Applied Physics, Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
Tel: +7 8312 164935, Fax: 365976
E-mail: stas.ermakov@hydro.appl.sci-nnov.ru
(4) P.P. Shirshov Institute, Moscow, Russia
Tel: +7 495 124 8810, Fax: 5983, E-mail: kostianoy@mail.mipt.ru
(5) Space Research Institute, Moscow, Russia
Tel: +7 495 333 4256, Fax: 1056, E-mail: olavrova@iki.rssi.ru
(6) Institute of Geography, Baku, Azerbaijan
Tel/Fax: +994 12 4393541, E-mail: ramiz.mamedov@geo.ab.az
(7) V.I.Il’ichev Pacific Oceanological Institute, Vladivostok, Russia
Tel: +7 4232 312 854, Fax: 573, E-mail: mitnik@poi.dvo.ru
(8) Instituto de Oceanografia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
Tel: +351 21 7573141, Fax: 7500009, E-mail: jdasilva@fc.ul.pt
(9) Marine Hydrophysical Institute, Sevastopol, Ukraine
Tel: +380 692 545 065, Fax: 450, E-mail: stas@dvs.net.ua

Abstract

Monomolecular surface films (“sea slicks”) and mineral oil spills are both well known to dampen small-scale waves at the water surface, and thereby to influence transport processes at the air-sea interface. Because of their strong wave-damping capabilities they can often be delineated on synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery, but also on satellite imagery acquired in the visible and infrared spectral ranges. Since sea slicks tend to accumulate at the water surface along shear current lines, fronts, eddies, etc., they can be used as a proxy for observing such marine processes from space. In order to document the dynamics of marine surface films under different environmental conditions we present the main results of our experimental efforts, as well as a selection of ERS and ENVISAT SAR images that demonstrate how well sea slicks are suited to indicate marine processes in the coastal zones. Furthermore, we demonstrate how remote sensing data can be used to detect marine oil pollution in coastal waters, and how pollution signatures can be discriminated from those of sea slicks.

 

 

Phytoplankton Dynamics in the Pelagos Sanctuary: A Satellite Approach

M.G. Finoia(1), M. Manca Zeichen(1,2) and V. Barale(3)

(1) Central Institute forApplied Marine Research,
Via di Casalotti 300, 00166 Rome, Italy
Tel: +39-06-789274, Fax: +39-06-61561906
E-mail: m.finoia@icram.org
(2) E-mail: m.mancazeichen@icram.org
(3) European Commission, DG Joint Research Centre, Institute for
Environment and Sustainability, TP 272, 21020 Ispra (VA), Italy
Tel: +39-0332-61570468, Fax: +39-0332-789034
E-mail: vittorio.barale@jrc.it

Abstract

Phytoplankton dynamics in the Pelagos International Marine Mammals Sanctuary, NW Mediterranean Sea, was studied using five years (1998-2002) of Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor (SeaWiFS) data. Mean chl images were derived for 10-day periods and a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) performed over the whole dataset. The surface patterns were used to trace the seasonal sequence of events that supports the extraordinary ecology of the Sanctuary, where the fertilization of surface waters due to air-sea interactions supports a large biomass of primary (and secondary) producers, as well as a highly developed food web, including a standing population of fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus).

 

 

Preliminary Evaluation of Maritime Traffic in the Pelagos Sanctuary

Sabrina Agnesi(1), Aldo Annunziatellis(4), Leonardo Tunesi(1,2) and Taira Di Nora(1,3)

(1) ICRAM (Central Institute for Marine Research), 00166 Rome, Italy
Tel: + 39-06-61570468, Fax: + 39-06-61561906
E-mail: s.agnesi@icram.org
(2) E-mail: l.tunesi@icram.org
(3) E-mail: t.dinora@icram.org
(4) University of Rome “La Sapienza”, 00185 Rome, Italy
Tel: + 39-06-49914918, Fax: + 39-06-49914919
E-mail: aldo.annunziatellis@uniroma1.it

Abstract

In 2006, ICRAM finalized the preliminary synthesis of the available data on the main human activities carried out in the area of the International Sanctuary for Mediterranean Marine Mammals “Pelagos”, analyzing its typology and its spatial distribution. The data were collected within the framework of a project, funded by the Italian Ministry of Environment, focusing on a multidisciplinary analysis regarding cetaceans and different typologies of human activities carried out in Italian waters of the Sanctuary. This contribution focuses on cargo and ferry traffic analyzed and elaborated through a Geographic Information System (GIS). Information on the ports of departure and arrival as well as the monthly frequency for ferry and cargo ships was collected through main company web sites operating out of Italian ports. The data was elaborated in order to identify possible shipping routes. A specific procedure was developed in order to identify different areas involved by maritime traffic and to estimate their relative intensity of use. The applied approach, starting from open source data, allowed to obtain a preliminary map of the maritime traffic and highlights areas where intensity of use reaches high values thereby indicating the need of more detailed studies.

 

 

Nearshore Currents Derived from an Analysis of X-Band Radar Images

Ahmed S. M. Ahmed(1) and Satoshi Takewaka(2)

(1) National Water Research Center, Hydraulics Research Institute,
Delta Barrage 13621, Egypt
Tel: + 202-4218-8268, Fax: + 202-4218-9539
E-mail: ahmed@hri-egypt.org
(2) Institute of Engineering Mechanics and Systems, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8573, Japan
E-mail: takewaka@kz.tsukuba.ac.jp

Abstract

An X-band marine radar system in the vicinity of Hazaki Oceanographical Research Station (HORS) was employed to observe the sea state during a storm event. The radar system maps the sea surface that produces images sequence of wave signatures. The image sequence comprises a clear spatial and temporal variation of the wave pattern. The echo signals of the image sequence were compared to the measured water surface elevations. The spectra of the radar images produce an exaggerated energy at low-frequency. After applying a pass band filter to the echo signals, both wave and echo signals were in a good correlation. The radar images approximately at the peak of the storm were analyzed.

 

Filtered radar images were created based on the dominant frequency that was determined from the spectral analysis. The dominating Fourier component corresponding to the dominant frequency was decomposed to new filtered images. The analysis of the filtered images was based on Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) technique that was developed by Ahmed and Sato (2001). The PIV analysis determines the wave celerity vectors and the same were computed based on linear theory. The computed and the measured wave celerity vectors were utilized to derive he nearshore currents along the observation pier by a simple analytical method. The results of this analysis were compared to existing numerical models and shows high correlation.

 

 

Various Subjects

Contribution of SMAP III TA to the Consolidation of ICZM across the Mediterranean

E. Baijot(1) and M. Le Tissier(2)

(1) Technical Assistance to the Short and Medium-term Priority Environment Action Programme, Cairo, Egypt
Tel: +20 10 901 15 75
E-mail: etienne.baijot@ta-smap.com; baijo061@yahoo.com
(2) Envision Management Ltd, UK
Tel: +44 1661 854255
E-mail: m.le-tissier@envision.uk.com

Abstract

Although ICZM is a stated common instrument across the region, the Mediterranean countries have reached different stages of development in terms of ICZM. This paper describes the approaches, activities and opportunities presented by the SMAP III TA to consolidate ICZM across the Mediterranean and more specifically the support to the ICZM projects funded within the framework of the Short and Medium-term Priority Environment Action Programme (SMAP).

 

 

Tectonic Implications of Bathymetry Image of the Mediterranean off the Nile Delta, Egypt

Morad Awad(1), Yakout El-Abd(2), Awatef Elgedy(2) and Madlien Albaredi(3)

(1) Mari. Geophy. Dept., Nat. Inst. Oceano. & Fisher., Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +2012-7660771, Fax: +203-4801174
E-mail: geo@gawab.com
(2) Geophy. Dept., Fac. Sci., Alexandria Univ., Alexandria, Egypt
Tel: +203-4875179
E-mail: mbawad@aast.edu
(3) Syrian Remote Sensing Authority, Damascus, Syria

Abstract

Bathymetry of the Egyptian Mediterranean shelf off-shore Nile Delta area UNESCO/ASRT/UNDP, (1976), is analysed and interpreted, in favour of focusing natural resources and better understanding the structural and tectonic plate models through an application of 3rd order polynomial as the best fit, for regional/residual separation. Distribution of marine sediments in terms of mass excess and /or deficiency expresses the tectonic features affecting the subsurface basin, as well as hydrocarbon favourability.

 

Bathymetry map as a spatial function, D (Lat. (y), Long. (x)) is increasing and decreasing in both NW & SE directions respectively. The Regional component of bathymetry, D (x, y) is filtered by a least squares fitting of 3rd order polynomial (Agrawal and Sivaji, 1992). Its residual component is given by d =D (Lat. (y), Long. (x)) – D. The d component indicates continental shelf offshore the Nile Delta as being sinking down with northward migration that making a depression of a residual depth of about 600 m. and bounded by an EW fault. Another sinking plate is located at the NW, makes a depression of a residual depth of about 350 m.



On the contrary, a positive plate lies between these two sinking plates of a depth range 325m to 400m. The three plates are bounded by fault zones that trending to make a synclinal feature having NW-SE axis, which affects the Nile delta region, to form a synclinal feature. Such basin might be favourable for structural offshore hydrocarbon traps. On the other hand, the increasing and/or decreasing in the shallow marine sediments, gave rise to distribution of mass excess and/or deficiency as being estimated to be about 59.68112 M.T. and -122.8629 M.T respectively. Mass excess are located at N, E and W, with larger amount at the western side than the eastern one; while mass deficiency lie at the middle of the map. The belts of zero balance, those separating the areas of excess and deficiency, are considered as zones of stability, which may indicate the erosion budget should equal to that of accretion of marine sediments (Al Chalabi, 1992), expresses the tectonic features affecting the subsurface basin, as well as hydrocarbon favourability (El Ayouty, 1990).

 

 

Erosion and Siltation Problems of Kitchener Drain Outlet, Egypt

Samy M. Shereet

Coastal Research Institute, 15 El Pharaana Street, 21514 El Shallalat, Alexandria, Egypt

Abstract

Kitchener drain outlet is located nearly in the middle of the Nile Delta coast, 20 Km along the coast east of El-Burullus outlet. This drain was constructed to discharge agricultural drainage water from some of the delta lowlands to the Mediterranean Sea. Although the drain has structures at its mouth, the problems of erosion/accretion phenomena along the coastal area of kitchener drain and the siltation in the outlet still exist. The present study aims to investigate the problem of shoaling at Kitchener drain outlet, quantify the pattern of erosion and accretion as well as the sediment drift pattern and explore the relationship between the pattern of bottom relief deformation and resulting compositions of the bottom sediment as reflected in their grain size. Therefore, sixteen nearshore beach profiles covered a period from October 2005, to April 2006 were analyzed to understand the erosional and accretional behavior as well as the mean grain size variation and the sediment drift pattern along the coast of Kitchener drain. Bottom relief deformation defined from profile surveys data indicates that major erosional area with a vertical shift value of (-2.0 m) was located at the western side of the Kitchener drain outlet, where the accretion is prevailed on the eastern one (+1.4 m). The high value of accretion to the east of the erosion area, demonstrating that there is strong eastward sediment drift. The identified pattern of sediment drift which based on bottom relief deformation is supported by grain size characteristics in areas of erosion and accretion. The spatial distribution of grain size shows that the beach and nearshore sediments are generally finer in the eroding areas and become coarser along the accreting ones. The eastward (40%; 0.336 x 106 m3/year) and offshore (20%, 0.168 x 106 m3/year) drifts may be responsible for erosion in the study area. On the other hand, a significant portion of the sediments in motion (estimated as 0.168 x 106 m3/year) is directed from offshore to onshore and result in siltation of the outlet and creating difficulties to inhabitants who are mainly fishermen. In order to overcome this problem, it is recommended to construct a revetment on both sides of the drain in order to decrease its migration of sediment to the east. Also, small jetties on both sides are recommended by the use of mathematical or physical models to get the most efficient solution.

 

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