مؤسسة الشرق الأوسط للنشر العلمي
عادةً ما يتم الرد في غضون خمس دقائق
Ain Al-Ghazala Lagoon is a vital marine ecosystem along the Libyan coast, supporting a rich biodiversity that plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and sustaining local economic activities. This study aimed to assess the biodiversity of the lagoon, focusing on fish, mollusks, crustaceans, marine algae, and flora in the region through field surveys conducted during the winter and summer seasons of 2023–2024. The results recorded several fish species, notably Atherina boyeri, Chelon auratus, Diplodus sargus, Siganus rivulatus, and Siganus luridus, alongside the presence of invasive species such as Pterois miles and Lagocephalus sceleratus, raising environmental concerns about their potential impact on native species. The mollusk diversity was notably high, with Gastropoda being the most dominant group, followed by Bivalvia, including species such as Mytilus edulis and Donax trunculus, which play a key role in ecosystem functions like biofiltration and nutrient cycling. Crustacean diversity included species such as Callinectes sapidus , Portunus pelagicus , and Penaeus semisulcatus , Additionally, the study documented a diverse assemblage of marine algae, including Chlorophyta , Rhodophyta , and Ochrophyta , which contribute to nutrient stabilization and provide essential habitats for fish and invertebrates.The study results indicate significant plant diversity in the region, with species adapted to both arid and coastal environments. The identified species belong to Gymnosperms and Angiosperms, including monocotyledons such as Hordeum murinum and dicotyledons like Eryngium maritimum, highlighting the ecological richness of the area.The study also underscores the urgent need for effective conservation strategies to protect the lagoon's biodiversity and mitigate the risks posed by invasive species, which could disrupt the ecological balance of this unique marine environment.