Doha, June 01 (QNA) - Qatar's Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has highlighted progress on its national project for the protection and restoration of coral reefs in Qatari waters, marking World Coral Reef Day on June 1.

In a statement, the ministry said the initiative reflects Qatar's commitment to science-based solutions to safeguard marine ecosystems, stressing the ecological importance of coral reefs as vital habitats for marine life and key contributors to biodiversity and environmental balance.

Assistant Undersecretary for Protection and Natural Reserves, Dr Ibrahim Al Maslamani, said the project represents a national effort grounded in scientific monitoring and habitat restoration, aligned with Qatar's broader sustainability goals and its efforts to enhance ecosystem resilience against climate change and environmental pressures.

He noted that coral reefs play a critical role in supporting marine biodiversity, sustaining fish stocks, protecting coastlines, and contributing to eco-tourism, research, education, and environmental awareness.

According to the ministry, marine research teams conducted extensive field surveys between 2024 and 2026 across Qatari waters, monitoring reef health and distribution. The surveys identified 49 species of hard and soft corals across 22 marine sites, underscoring the richness and resilience of Qatar's coral ecosystems.

The findings have helped identify ecologically high-performing marine sites to serve as reference areas for future conservation and restoration programs, providing a scientific basis for reef management strategies.

The project also includes active restoration efforts, such as coral transplantation from healthy sites to affected areas, rehabilitation of reef structures, and the use of modern marine engineering techniques to support coral growth and stability.

It further incorporates specialized training programs for divers and volunteers to strengthen national capacity in marine conservation, monitoring, and restoration practices.

The ministry said these efforts align with Qatar's international environmental commitments, particularly United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14 on life below water, and support global ocean science initiatives for sustainable development.

Officials emphasized that continued scientific monitoring and data collection are essential for informed environmental decision-making and the long-term protection of marine ecosystems in Qatar. (QNA)