Biodiversity in Northern Islands Protectorate in the Egyptian Red Sea Using Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing Technologies

The Northern Islands Protectorate is classified as a resource development reserve, covering an area of approximately 1,991 km². The protectorate contains several sensitive ecosystems, including marine islands, coral reefs, sea grass beds, and a rare environment for mangrove growth. It is also home to endangered species such as the dugong, sea turtles, and dolphins. Its significance stems from its role as a crucial stopover for migratory birds due to its strategic geographical location overlooking the Gubal Strait.(GIS) technologies can be employed to establish a comprehensive biodiversity database for the study area. A site map of the Northern Islands can be developed to monitor plant and animal species, using devices such as an echo sounder to create a depth map of the study area and a water quality analyzer to collect and assess water samples from various locations around the islands to evaluate their impact on marine habitats. Remote sensing technologies can be utilized for both supervised and unsupervised classification of terrestrial and marine habitats using a spectral signature measurement device to determine the spectral signature of each habitat within the study area. Furthermore, human induced disturbances, such as tourism activities and oil spills— particularly given the region’s strategic significance within the Gubal area—can be monitored. An environmental sensitivity map can then be created, followed by an environmental impact assessment, leading to a proposal for identifying the most suitable locations for human activities that ensure the preservation of biodiversity within the study area.