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Umitaka-Maru Cruises
Dates: Dec.1993, Jan.1994 and Dec.1994 (Inner RSA)
Vessel: RT/V Umitaka-Maru (Tokyo University of Fisheries -Japan)
Sponsors: ROPME, UNEP, IOC, JAPAN
Objective: Studying the roles of large-scale dynamics of physical, chemical and biological processes in RSA for the distribution, fate and flux of pollutants among different ecosystems following the 1990-91 War.
Surveyed Stations During Umitaka-Maru Cruises
These three short Cruises of 12 days each were planned and conducted under the umbrella of ROPME, UNEP and IOC for the implementation of an Integrated Action Plan for the RSA to assess the impact of War and to improve knowledge on relevant Regional environmental factors.
 The oceanographic programme of the Cruises included:
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Defining baroclinic structure and water mass analysis
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Investigation of localized physical processes to define exchange and sub-synoptic-scale current pattern in the Strait of Hormuz
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Determination of petroleum hydrocarbon loading by sediment
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Biodegradation of hydrocarbons by benthic community and microbes
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Water chemical analyses and biological investigation
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Survey of hard-bottom coral areas
- Analysis of commercial marine species
The scientific results from these cruises have been presented in an International Symposium , held in the State of Kuwait in Dec.1995 and published in a book in 1998 entitled : Offshore Environment of ROPME Sea Area after the War- Related oil Spill.
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