Bryozoans of the Persian Gulf

Despite the identification of bryozoans in the world oceans, there is still no comprehensive study done on the bryozoans of the Persian Gulf. In this study, bryozoans on different surfaces during four consecutive years (2014-2017) were collected all along the Iranian coast of the Persian Gulf. Additionally, PVC panels were deployed at 9 main ports along the coast for a period of one year and were check for bryozoans seasonally. Samples were bleached with sodium hypochlorite in the laboratory and photographed using SEM. Specimens were then identified to the genus or species level and confirmed by an expert in the Natural History Museum of London. In total, 13 taxa belonging to 11 family were identified. From this, 9 taxa were recorded for the first time in the Persian Gulf. Furthermore, there are several new species recognized in this study being described and named soon. The results indicate the presence of several non-indigenous and/or invasive species which is not surprising due to the high shipping load in the region. Our results provide essential data to be used when taking strategic decisions and management plan to preserve the biodiversity of the Persian Gulf.

Keywords:

Bryozoans , Coastal waters , Iranian coast , Persian Gulf