Physical Properties and Exchange System of Seawater in Royal Yacht Club Marina in the Northernmost Gulf of Aqaba

摘要

This research was aimed at studying the general environmental status of the marina at Royal Yacht Club (RYC), which is located in the Jordanian Gulf of Aqaba. The physical properties (temperature, salinity and density) were measured at surface and bottom water at 19 sites (T1 - T19). Total hydrocarbon was measured at surface at 12 sites (HC1-HC12). The water exchange and residence time were calculated using data of current speed and direction at 16 sites (C1 - C16). The mean values of temperature, salinity and density at surface and bottom waters in the RYC’s marina were 27.13°C ± 0.03°C, 40.51 ± 0.02 psu and 26.83 ± 0.02 kg·m ~( -3 ) , respectively. The results of physical parameters revealed no significant differences among sites, which are all comparable with open waters. The measurements range of total hydrocarbon in the marina was 1.404 mg/l (at site HC11) to 98.56 mg/l (at HC9). In general, all the high values of total hydrocarbon were found at the corners of the marina and at areas with relatively intense boats’ movements. There was no correlation between distribution of total hydrocarbon and temperature (R ~( 2 ) = 0.048; p = 0.49) in the marina. Therefore, the major factors that influence the distribution of total hydrocarbon within the marina are the current system and boats’ movements as well as the location reference to the gate. The residence time of waters inside the marina was 1.32 days. This flushing time is acceptable to secure good environmental conditions inside the marine to avoid stagnant seawater. The mean value of current speed at the RYC’s marina gate with open water was 5.33 ± 2.63 cm/s, which is relatively comparable with current speed in vicinity of study area. In conclusions, the environmental condition of the RYC’s marina is acceptable in term of the residence time and exchange system with open water. Slightly high values of total hydrocarbon were detected, which can be solved by regular cleaning.