Coral Genes Go with the Flow Further Than Expected: Insights for Marine Conservation

KAUST research has revealed surprising connections between the southern Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, offering new insights into marine life and genetic patterns. This finding highlights the need for a collaborative, regional approach to conservation.

The Red Sea's coral reefs host diverse marine life, with a genetic divide between the northern and southern regions. Previous studies attributed this to environmental differences, but physical connectivity was unclear.

KAUST researchers used particle tracking simulations, showing that the southern Red Sea is more connected to the Indian Ocean, with significant influx through the Bab-El-Mandeb strait. This connection varies seasonally, stronger in winter, influencing genetic patterns of species based on spawning seasons.

Unexpectedly, the study found links between the southern Red Sea and distant regions like Somalia, Oman, and Madagascar, stressing the need for international cooperation in marine conservation and ocean management.

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