Using spatial data analysis for delineating existing mangroves stands and siting suitable locations for mangroves plantation

The current research aimed at delineating the existing mangroves stands within the area between El Quseir - Marsa Alam and finding the most suitable locations to plant mangroves trees. Sharm El-Bahari was found to be the healthiest mangroves stands in the area. By interpreting the satellite images and field survey the four environmental factors controlling the growing of mangroves: physical and chemical properties of seawater, soil properties and coastal geomorphology. These factors were measured at Sharm El-Bahari site and considered the best environmental boundaries suitable for mangroves growing in the study area. With these values in mind, the sites suitable for mangroves plantation were located where these environmental requirements were met. Six sites suitable for mangroves plantation were identified; these sites were ranked using Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP).