Temperature and Salinity Effects in Sensitive Area of Qeshm Island: Mangrove Forests

Mangrove forests of Qeshm Island could be considered as one of the most important and sensitive ecosystems of the Persian Gulf. The Growth and evolution of mangrove forests are affected by various factors such as pollution, light penetration, depth, water flow, and water quality. Consequently, it is vital to monitor the environmental changes of these mangrove forests. Hence, this study was aimed to evaluate the effects of sea surface temperature and salinity changes on vegetation level in the Khor-e-khoran protected area in two distinct time periods (1986-1999 & 2001-2015). In order to achieve the desired accuracy and details, various data sources were applied including recorded data in the department of environment of Iran, satellite imagery, drawing profiles and charts by standard models of ECMWF and Giovanni. The results of the present study clarified that Sea Surface Temperature and Salinity increased by about 0.2°C and 0.5 ppt respectively. Comparing the total areas of studied mangrove forests indicated that the total area of Khor-e-khoran protected area was decreased from about 6800 hectares in 2003 to 6350 hectares in 2015 which was more than 1.5%. It was suggested sewages and wastewaters delivered from shrimp farming pools as well as fuel and crude oil leakage caused salinity and pollution anomalies in this region.