Mapping of coastal ecosystems and halophytes (case study of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates)

Abstract

A survey of the coastal zone of Abu Dhabi identified 22 halophytes of which nine are tolerant to inundation by seawater. A preliminary assessment suggested that 3.550 km2 of saline land with a complete absence of natural vegetation was potentially suitable for the development of sustainable agro-ecosystems with halophyte crops and seawater irrigation. Such development plans, however, require the implementation of environmental impact assessments. The inter-tidal plant communities need special protection, as they are fragile, and economically and ecologically valuable.