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The Gulf of Aqaba contains a variety of outstanding and unique sensitive aquatic habitats, including extensive rocky outcroppings, shallow coastal lagoons, mangrove thickets, and world-renowned coral reefs. Each of these habitats in turn supports a multitude of species.
When marine protected areas (MPAs) were created in the past, the founders often failed to comprehend how the surrounding marine and terrestrial regions and human uses of those regions would affect the MPA, leading to their continued degradation. To protect these habitats, all human uses of the habitats and other nearby marine and terrestrial environments must be managed in a manner that fosters their protection.
This article discusses some of the means by which sensitive aquatic habitats within the Gulf of Aqaba may be protected or their existing protection enhanced. It begins by describing briefly the Gulf of Aqaba’s sensitive marine habitats and the threats facing them. The focus then shifts to an examination of legislative mechanisms that can be used to protect sensitive aquatic habitats. Next, the chapter examines means of selecting sites for designation as marine protected areas. Finally, it explores some of the planning and management tools commonly used to implement MPA laws and policies.