Oman has launched a comprehensive scientific survey along the Dhofar coastline following a sharp increase in populations of a locally known sea urchin species, “Takriz”, raising new questions about its environmental impact on marine ecosystems, reports
Times of Oman, a partner of TV BRICS.
The study is being conducted by the Fisheries Research Centre in Dhofar under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. It follows a notable surge in sea urchin numbers recorded in 2025, particularly along the coastal stretch between Mirbat and Hasik.
According to officials, the increase marks a significant shift compared with previous years and has triggered a detailed assessment of the species’ ecological role.
Director of the Fisheries Research Centre, Salim Al-Ghassani, stated that the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to monitor life-cycle changes in marine organisms and evaluate their broader environmental implications.
The programme focuses on identifying areas where the urchins are most concentrated and analysing their impact on vital marine habitats, particularly seagrass beds and algae. Researchers are using latitudinal survey methods to measure population density and track distribution patterns with greater precision.
The survey covers an extensive section of coastline, including the ecologically significant Al Hallaniyyat Islands. The goal is to produce a comprehensive distribution map of the species across the region.
Experts note that sea urchins play a dual role in marine ecosystems: while they help regulate algae growth, population surges can disrupt ecological balance by overgrazing seagrass habitats, which are critical for biodiversity and coastal resilience.
The findings of the survey are expected to support future environmental management decisions and contribute to the sustainable protection of Oman’s marine resources.