Cyanobacteria of surface and ground waters in Asir Region with new records to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract EN

Cyanobacteria were surveyed in six surface water bodies and six ground water wells in Asir region, Southwest of Saudi Arabia between August and December 2003.

A total of 25 cyanobacterial species belonging to 16 genera were identified during this study.

Most species showed wide range in their distribution among all surface and ground water sites.

However, three species were recorded in all surface water sites, but not found in ground water sites.

Two species were found only in all ground water sites.

The results also showed that some species were restricted only to a certain site.

Compared to the results of previous studies reported on freshwater cyanobacteria in Saudi Arabia, fifteen cyanobacterial species were identified as new records for Saudi Arabia during this study.

Because of their ability to produce toxins, cyanobacteria should be monitored in surface and ground waters in Saudi Arabia in order to avoid their harmful effect on plant, animal and human health upon exposure to these waters.