Changes in the coral reef ecosystem around three of Kuwait's island reefs, Kubbar, Qaru and Umm AlMaradim, situated at 29° N and 48° E in the northern Arabian Gulf were studied between 2003 and 2005 with particular emphasis on the role and impact of sea urchins in structuring the coral reef communities. Diver ground truthing surveys and Global Information Systems (GIS) were used to map the biological and physical features around the coral reefs. A diver survey of benthic cover along transects at different depths around the reefs demonstrated no significant
differences in mean percentage cover between years or between surveys along most transects. Reef biodiversity was highly variable and depended on water depth and aspect (i.e. the windward or leeward side of the reefs), although no differences in composition of the coral reef communities were noted during the study period. No significant differences in sea urchin (Echinometra mathaei and Diadema setosum) densities were found between 2003 and 2004 (density 19.35-33.44 m-²) nor between transect, coral reef island, by depth or by exposure. Similar patterns of coral recruitment were observed in 2003 and 2005 (0.18 m-² to 0.59 m-²) , although higher numbers of recruiting corals were observed on the more sheltered, leeward sides of the reefs. The presence of coral recruitment along the reefs is indicative that natural recruitment processes are regularly taking place and this can be considered a positive signal that the reefs are being restored naturally. Observations and counts of the number of damaged coral colonies on the reefs between 2003 and 2005 (0.26 m-²) confirmed a connection between coral damage and the number of pleasure and dive boats visiting the reefs. Coral colonies around all the reefs were regularly damaged
by boat anchors and was quantified from video surveys. Damage to the coral reef at Umm AlMaradim was particularly noticeable during 2004 & 2005 during and following the construction of a new marina around the island in April 2004. A coral bleaching event in April 2005 was a further factor affecting coral reef health. The contribution of sea urchins to the bioerosion of the coral reefs was investigated using cage exclusion and gut evacuation experiments. Kuwait's offshore islands coral reefs constitute unique ecosystems in the Arabian Gulf. Despite various adverse and
anthropogenic natural factors, the reefs are flourishing as evidenced by the regular arrival of new coral recruits. Future prospects for the region's coral reefs are discussed, including the need for the immediate implementation of active restoration measures. A long-term monitoring plan to regularly assess the condition of the reefs is also advocated.