Shabait.com (Asmara)
7 November 2007
Asmara — An Australian scholar who conducted research on Eritrean coral reefs said that the nation is endowed with unpolluted and spectacular coral reefs.
In a lecture he gave yesterday at Hotel Intercontinental Asmara that was attended by ministers and other government officials, experts and members of the diplomatic corps, Dr. John Veron explained that Eritrea possesses unique coral reefs of international standards that could endure for a long period by tolerating hot temperature.
The researcher further indicated that he has discovered 5 new types of coral reefs in the Eritrean islands never found before in the scientific world. He also pointed out that unlike the case in other countries; Eritrea's coral reefs have not been damaged due to over-fishing. Moreover, Dr. John Veron underlined the significance of conserving such natural resources and stressed the need for exposing this virgin and spectacular natural resource to the world so as to earn hard currency. The Australian researcher went on to say that he would publish his findings in a science magazine.
The head of education and campaign project for the conservation of bio-diversity in the Eritrean coastline and the islands, Mr. Saleh Idris, pointed out that Dr. John Veron is a renowned researcher who identified 21% of the existing coral reefs in the world, and that his findings as regards the Eritrean coral reefs is of great significance. Mr. Saleh noted that out of the 7 sea turtles in the world, 5 are found in the Eritrean maritime zone, thus making the country rich in sea resources.
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