Evaluation of the Resource Potential of Biodiversity for Ecotourism: The Case of Samandağ Coastal Dunes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21631344Keywords:
Samandağ, Coastal dunes, Biodiversity, EcotourismAbstract
The aim of this study was to assess the resource value of the Samandağ coastal dunes in terms of biodiversity within the context of their ecotourism potential. The study was confined to the coastal dunes in the Samandağ district of Hatay province; literature-based biodiversity data were compiled and analysed in the context of the relationships between flora, fauna, wetlands, the delta and marine habitats. The research findings indicate that the Samandağ coastal dunes offer significant diversity in terms of dune flora, migratory bird species, aquatic species associated with the Asi River Delta, sea turtles, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and marine fauna. In particular, the Milleyha Wetland, sea turtle nesting sites, certain threatened fish species and species of conservation priority such as the Mediterranean monk seal, all contribute to the area’s ecological sensitivity. Accordingly, it is recommended that ecotourism activities developed on the Samandağ coastal dunes should prioritise limited recreational activities, botanical observation, birdwatching, nature photography, environmental education, scientific excursions, controlled ecological interpretation activities, participation in conservation activities and green transport options, rather than intensive recreational use.
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