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Application of Giovanni for rapid assessment of harmful algal blooms in the Arabian Gulf

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Abstract

The incidence of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the Arabian Gulf, especially, in 2008 and 2009 has heightened concern regarding monitoring programs. Giovanni is a tool for cheap and rapid assessment of HAB incidences. In order to identify changes in phytoplankton species composition, specifically incidences of HABs, we employed web-based Giovanni coupled with satellite imagery and reported data from literature. In this study, we pinpointed and linked the time of algal bloom occurrence and the region affected in the Arabian Gulf. The data presented graphically and visually using Giovanni emphasized the incidence of HABs in the Arabian Gulf as reported in literature. Giovanni generated high-quality data which is vital to rapid assessment. The deployment of Giovanni as a complementary tool to support comprehensive and robust HAB monitoring in the Arabian Gulf region is indeed recommended.

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Acknowledgments

Analyses and visualizations used in this “Application of Giovanni for rapid assessment, interactive visualization and analysis of HABs” were produced with the Giovanni online data system, developed and maintained by the NASA GES DISC.

Also, the Authors extend their gratitude to the Marine Section team Center for Environment and Water, Research Institute (CEW-RI) - King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals for the invaluable support received.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Earth Sciences Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM), Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

    Amao Abduljamiu Olalekan & Karim Malik

  2. Center for Environment and Water-Marine Research Institute, KFUPM, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

    Amao Abduljamiu Olalekan

Authors
  1. Amao Abduljamiu Olalekan
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  2. Karim Malik
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Correspondence to Karim Malik.

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Olalekan, A.A., Malik, K. Application of Giovanni for rapid assessment of harmful algal blooms in the Arabian Gulf. Arab J Geosci 8, 8767–8775 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12517-015-1826-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12517-015-1826-3

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