ON THE ECOLOGY OF WADI GAZA, GAZA STRIP: SURVEY AND ASSESSMENT

A coherent presentation of different ecological and environmental aspects concerning Wadi Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine, is given. Wadi Gaza was declared as a nature reserve in 2000 due to its ecological importance. At first, this book introduces a full description of the Wadi Gaza profile. In chapter III, the book focuses on wildlife and its ecological status in Wadi Gaza and its adjacent environs. A total number of 154 terrestrial vertebrate species and 70 floristic species were recorded. Threats facing vertebrate fauna in Wadi Gaza were highlighted to include: Poaching and hunting, habitat destruction and the weak implementation of environmental laws and legislations. Floristic species were also highly stressed due to over-grazing, over-cutting and habitat modifications. In chapter IV, the knowledge, attitudes and practices of a randomly selected population towards the ecological and environmental issues of Wadi Gaza were surveyed and assessed as well. Finally, the book recommends improving cooperation of different parties to rehabilitate Wadi Gaza and to protect its biota in a sustainable manner.