On the Mummified Marine and Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Adorning the Biology Department Museum at the Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine, before the Israeli War on October 7, 2023 — Oak Academic Publishing
Research ArticleOpen AccessGoogle Scholar indexed
On the Mummified Marine and Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Adorning the Biology Department Museum at the Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine, before the Israeli War on October 7, 2023
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Al-Aqsa University, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Teaching Science Program, Department of Teaching Methods, Faculty of Education, Al-Aqsa University, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
National Institute of Agronomy of Tunisia, 43 Avenue Charles Nicolle, Tunis 1082, Tunisia
,
National Institute of Agronomy of Tunisia, 43 Avenue Charles Nicolle, Tunis 1082, Tunisia
,
National Institute of Marine Sciences and Technologies (INSTM), La Goulette Port, Tunis, Tunisia
,
Department of Smart Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Journalism and Media, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Environmental Research and Media, National Research Center, University of Palestine, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Directorate General of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Directorate General of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Directorate General of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Directorate General of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Marine Sciences, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
,
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Arab-American University, Jenin, Palestine
1 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
2 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
3 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
4 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
5 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
6 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
7 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
8 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
9 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
10 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
11 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
12 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
13 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
14 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
15 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
16 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
17 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
Palestine (27,000 km 2 ) is home to a diversity of marine and terrestrial vertebrate fauna of Afrotropical, Oriental and Palaearctic origins. Numerous vertebrate species have been mummified and preserved in the Biology Department Museum at the Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine. The study documents specimens of marine and terrestrial vertebrates preserved in the Biology Department Museum at the Islamic University of Gaza between 2018 and early 2023. This work provides the only published record of this collection, which was bombarded and destroyed during the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip following October 7, 2023. Using field guides and taxonomic keys, the authors identified 156 species, belonging to 92 families and 43 orders, distributed across six vertebrate classes, identifying the proportions of native, invasive, and endemic species. Bony fishes constituted 33.6% of the total recorded species, followed by birds (30.1%), reptiles (15.4%), cartilaginous fishes (5.1%), mammals (3.9%), and amphibians (1.9%). Of the 68 recorded bony fish species, 27 (39.7%) were described as invasive, with the Silver-cheeked Toadfish ( Lagocephalus sceleratus ) being considered one of the worst marine invasive species worldwide. The Indian Myna ( Acridotheres tristis ) and the Ring-necked Parakeet ( Psittacula krameri ) were considered invasive birds and posed a threat to the ecology of the Gaza Strip. Three endemic species were recorded during the study; the Palestine Viper ( Daboia palaestinae ), the Palestine Sunbird ( Cinnyris osea ) and the Palestine Mole-rat ( Spalax leucodon ehrenbergi ). In conclusion, the study recommends that, in the event of political stability in the Gaza Strip, model museums be established under the auspices of the responsible authorities. These museums would benefit students, researchers, and all segments of Palestinian society, and would contribute to increasing ecological awareness of wildlife and its sustainable conservation.
KeywordsVertebrate FaunaMummification and PreservationExotic vs . NativeBiology Department MuseumOctober 72023 Israeli WarIslamic University of Gaza
Qumsiyeh, M.B. (1996) Mammals of the Holy Land. Texas Tech. University Press, 389 p.
Meiri, S., Belmaker, A., Berkowic, D., Kazes, K., Maza, E., Bar-Oz, G., et al . (2019) A Checklist of Israeli Land Vertebrates. Israel Journal of Ecology and Evolution , 65, 43-70. https://doi.org/10.1163/22244662-20191047
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2005) An Ecological Survey and Assessment of Wadi Gaza Nature Reserve, Gaza Strip-Palestine, with Particular Emphasis on Wildlife. Ph.D. Thesis, Department of Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science and Technology, School of Life Sciences, Al-Neelain University-Sudan, 278 p.
Abd Rabou, A.N., Yassin, M.M., Al-Agha, M.R., Hamad, D.M. and Ali, A.S. (2007) The Avifauna of Wadi Gaza Nature Reserve, Gaza Strip-Palestine. The Islamic University Journal ( Series of Natural Studies and Engineering ), 15, 39-85.
Abd Rabou, A.N., Yassin, M.M., Al-Agha, M.R., Hamad, D.M. and Ali, A.S. (2007) The Herpetofauna of the Gaza Strip with Particular Emphasis on the Vicinity of Wadi Gaza. The Islamic University Journal ( Series of Natural Studies and Engineering ), 15, 111-135.
Abd Rabou, A.N., Yassin, M.M., Al-Agha, M.R., Hamad, D.M. and Ali, A.S. (2007) Wild Mammals in the Gaza Strip, with Particular Reference to Wadi Gaza. The Islamic University Journal ( Series of Natural Studies and Engineering ), 15, 87-109.
Yassin, M., Abd Rabou, A.N. and Al-Agha, M. (2006) Preliminary Survey of Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna and People’s Awareness towards Wildlife in the Northern Governorate of the Gaza Strip. Al - Azhar Bulletin of Science : Zoology & Botany , 17, 17-40. https://doi.org/10.21608/absb.2006.14718
Al-Safadi, M.M. (2002) Vertebrate Fauna of Gaza Strip. Al - Azhar University Journal , 6, 1-32.
MedWetCoast (2002) Management Plan: Wadi Gaza. Project for the Conservation of Wetland and Coastal Ecosystems in the Mediterranean Region-MedWetCoast, 171 p. https://www.mahmiyat.ps/uploads/WadiGazaMP.pdf
Abu-Taleb, M.H.A. (2008) Studies on Vertebrates of Gaza Strip, Palestine. Ph.D. Thesis, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Girls for Arts and Education, Ain Shams University, Egypt in Cooperation with the Department of Biology, Al-Aqsa University.
Golani, D. (1996) The Marine Ichthyofauna of the Eastern Levant-History, Inventory, and Characterization. Israel Journal of Ecology and Evolution , 42, 15-55.
Goren, M. and Ortal, R. (1999) Biogeography, Diversity and Conservation of the Inland Water Fish Communities in Israel. Biological Conservation , 89, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0006-3207(98)00127-x
18
19 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
20 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
21 Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Al-Aqsa University, Gaza Strip, Palestine
22 Teaching Science Program, Department of Teaching Methods, Faculty of Education, Al-Aqsa University, Gaza Strip, Palestine
23 National Institute of Agronomy of Tunisia, 43 Avenue Charles Nicolle, Tunis 1082, Tunisia
24 National Institute of Agronomy of Tunisia, 43 Avenue Charles Nicolle, Tunis 1082, Tunisia
25 National Institute of Marine Sciences and Technologies (INSTM), La Goulette Port, Tunis, Tunisia
26 Department of Smart Systems Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
27 Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
28 Department of Journalism and Media, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
29 Department of Environmental Research and Media, National Research Center, University of Palestine, Gaza Strip, Palestine
30 Directorate General of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Gaza Strip, Palestine
31 Directorate General of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Gaza Strip, Palestine
32 Directorate General of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Gaza Strip, Palestine
33 Directorate General of Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Gaza Strip, Palestine
34 Department of Marine Sciences, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
35 Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
36 Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Arab-American University, Jenin, Palestine
Gaza Strip
Palestine
Goren, M. and Galil, B.S. (2005) A Review of Changes in the Fish Assemblages of Levantine Inland and Marine Ecosystems Following the Introduction of Non-Native Fishes. Journal of Applied Ichthyology , 21, 364-370. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0426.2005.00674.x
Çiçek, E., Fricke, R., Sungur, S., Çapar, O.B. and Golani, D. (2023) Freshwater Fishes of Israel; a Revised and Updated Annotated Checklist—2023. Zootaxa , 5369, 451-484. https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5369.4.1
Abu Amra, H.E. (2018) A Survey of Marine Bony Fishes of the Gaza Strip, Palestine. M.Sc. Thesis, Department of Biology, Islamic University of Gaza, 110 p.
Abd Rabou, A.N., Elkahlout, K.E., Elnabris, K.J., Attallah, A.J., Salah, J.Y., Aboutair, M.A., et al . (2023) An Inventory of Some Relatively Large Marine Mammals, Reptiles, and Fishes Sighted, Caught, By-Caught, or Stranded in the Mediterranean Coast of the Gaza Strip-Palestine. Open Journal of Ecology , 13, 119-153. https://doi.org/10.4236/oje.2023.132010
Golani, D. (2006) Cartilaginous Fishes of the Mediterranean Coast of Israel. The Proceedings of the International Workshop on Mediterranean Cartilaginous Fish with Emphasis on Southern and Eastern Mediterranean , Istanbul, 14-16 October 2006, 95-100.
Hooper-Greenhill, E. (1992) Museums and the Shaping of Knowledge. Routledge, 244 p.
Allmon, W.D. (1994) The Value of Natural History Collections. Curator : The Museum Journal , 37, 83-89. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2151-6952.1994.tb01011.x
Davis, P. (1996) Museums and the Natural Environment: The Role of Natural History Museums in Biological Conservation. Leicester University Press.
Lane, M.A. (1996) Roles of Natural History Collections. Annals of the Missouri Botanical Garden , 83, 536-545. https://doi.org/10.2307/2399994
Suarez, A.V. and Tsutsui, N.D. (2004) The Value of Museum Collections for Research and Society. BioScience , 54, 66-74. https://doi.org/10.1641/0006-3568(2004)054[0066:tvomcf]2.0.co;2
Qumsiyeh, M., Handal, E., Chang, J., Abualia, K., Najajreh, M. and Abusarhan, M. (2017) Role of Museums and Botanical Gardens in Ecosystem Services in Developing Countries: Case Study and Outlook. International Journal of Environmental Studies , 74, 340-350. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207233.2017.1284383
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2020) The Palestinian Marine and Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Preserved at the Biology Exhibition, Islamic University of Gaza, Bombarded by the Israeli Army in December, 2008. Israa University Journal for Applied Science , 4, 9-51. https://doi.org/10.52865/hfrs6095
Abd Rabou, A.N., Musallam, N.J., Musallam, E.J., Elkahlout, K.E., Elnabris, K.J., El-Bashiti, T.A., et al . (2020) The Palestinian Terrestrial Vertebrate Fauna Preserved at the Biology Exhibitions of the Universities of the Gaza Strip. Research in Ecology , 2, 9-21. https://doi.org/10.30564/re.v2i4.2512
UNEP (2003) Desk Study on the Environment in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), 188 p.
Boitani, L. and Bartoli, S. (1983) Simon and Schuster’s Guide to Mammals. Simon and Schuster Inc., 511 p.
Capula, M. (1989) Simon and Schuster’s Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of the World. Simon and Schuster Inc., 256 p.
Harrison, D.L. and Bates, P.J.J. (1991) The Mammals of Arabia. Harrison Zoological Museum, 354 p.
Harrison, C. and Greensmith, A. (1993) Birds of the World. DK Publishing Inc., 416 p.
Porter, R.F., Christensen, S. and Schiermacker-Hansen, P. (1996) Field Guide to the Birds of the Middle East. T and AD Poyser, 460 p.
Shirihai, H. (1996) The Birds of Israel. Academic Press, 876 p.
Abu Shammalah, M. and Baha El-Din, M. (1999) Birds of Gaza. Darwish Consulting Engineers Ltd., 44 p.
Amr, Z.S. (2000) Jordan Country Study on Biological Diversity: Mammals of Jordan. United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), 100 p.
Disi, A.M. (2002) Jordan Country Study on Biological Diversity: The Herpatofauna of Jordan. The General Corporation for the Environment Protection (GCEP). The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, 288 p.
Hoath, R. (2003) A Field Guide to the Mammals of Egypt. The American University in Cairo Press, 234 p.
Baha El-Din, S. (2006) A Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Egypt. The American University in Cairo Press, 359 p.
Galil, B. (2007) Seeing Red: Alien Species along the Mediterranean Coast of Israel. Aquatic Invasions , 2, 281-312. https://doi.org/10.3391/ai.2007.2.4.2
IUCN (2012) Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles of the Mediterranean and Black Seas. International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources IUCN, 32 p.
Salah, J.Y. and Abutair, M.E. (2012) Common Fishes of the Gaza Strip: Brochures Designated by the Directorate General of Fisheries. Ministry of Agriculture.
Bar, A. and Haimovitch, G. (2012) A Field Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians of Israel. Pazbar Ltd., 246 p.
Bariche, M. (2012) Field Identification Guide to the Living Marine Resources of the Eastern and Southern Mediterranean. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 610 p.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2009) On the Occurrence of Some Carnivores in the Gaza Strip, Palestine (Mammalia: Carnivora). Zoology in the Middle East , 46, 109-112. https://doi.org/10.1080/09397140.2009.10638336
Abdallah, T. and Swaileh, K. (2011) Effects of the Israeli Segregation Wall on Biodiversity and Environmental Sustainable Development in the West Bank, Palestine. International Journal of Environmental Studies , 68, 543-555. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207233.2011.608504
Qumsiyeh, M.B. and Abusarhan, M.A. (2021) Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation in Palestine. In: Öztürk, M., Altay, V. and Efe, R., Eds., Biodiversity , Conservation and Sustainability in Asia , Springer International Publishing, 1-22. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-59928-7_1
Qumsiyeh, M.B., Hussein, D., Boulad, N., Albaradeiya, I.M., Mahasnah, M., Abusarhan, M., et al . (2023) Updating and Enhancing the Protected Areas Network of Palestine: A Step Towards Biodiversity Conservation. Parks , 29, 73-84. https://doi.org/10.2305/ubea6691
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2011) The Palestinian Mammalian Fauna Acquired by the Zoological Gardens in the Gaza Strip. Nusantara Bioscience , 3, 82-91. https://doi.org/10.13057/nusbiosci/n030205
Gafar, M.F., Mohanna, A.M., Rafeea, A.A., Jadallah, R.I., Rabou, A.A.A., et al . (2025) A Look at the Deadly Shark Attack on an Israeli Diver off the Mediterranean Coast of Hadera, Palestine. Uttar Pradesh Journal of Zoology , 46, 124-142. https://doi.org/10.56557/upjoz/2025/v46i125050
Farrag, M.M.S., El-Naggar, H.A., Abou-Mahmoud, M.M.A., Alabssawy, A.N., Ahmed, H.O., Abo-Taleb, H.A., et al . (2019) Marine Biodiversity Patterns off Alexandria Area, Southeastern Mediterranean Sea, Egypt. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment , 191, Article No. 367. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-019-7471-7
Castro, P. and Huber, M.E. (2008) Marine Biology. 7th Edition, McGraw-Hill, 459 p.
Al-Hassan, L.A., and El-Silini, O.A. (1999) Checklist of Bony Fishes Collected from the Mediterranean Coast of Benghazi, Libya. Revista de Biologia Marina y Oceanografía , 34, 291-301.
Saad, A. (2005) Checklist of Bony Fish Collected from the Coast of Syria. Turkish Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences , 5, 99-106.
Akel, E.H. and Karachle, P. (2017) The Marine Ichthyofauna of Egypt. Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Biology and Fisheries , 21, 81-116. https://doi.org/10.21608/ejabf.2017.4130
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2013) Priorities of Scientific Research in the Fields of Marine Environment and Fishery Resources in the Gaza Strip-Palestine. Priorities of Scientific Research in Palestine : Towards a National Directory of Scientific Research , Gaza Strip, 25-26 March 2013, 481-522.
Shaheen, A.L. (2016) Assessment of Pisciculture Status in the Gaza Strip. M.Sc. Thesis, Department of Biological Sciences, Al-Azhar University, 163 p.
Pavlidis, M.A. and Mylonas, C.C. (2011) Sparidae: Biology and Aquaculture of Gilt-head Sea Bream and Other Species. Wiley-Blackwell, 408 p.
Hussein, D.M., Lucchetti, M.C., Zaqoot, H.A., Penca, J. and Hussein, M.A. (2022) Status of Fisheries in Gaza Strip: Past Trends and Challenges. International Journal of Euro - Mediterranean Studies , 15, 179-216.
Mehanna, S.F. (2007) A Preliminary Assessment and Management of Gilthead Bream ( Spa rus aurata ) in Port Said Fishery, Southeastern Mediterranean, Egypt. Turkish Jour nal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences , 7, 123-130.
Mhalhel, K., Levanti, M., Abbate, F., Laurà, R., Guerrera, M.C., Aragona, M., et al . (2023) Review on Gilthead Seabream ( Sparus aurata ) Aquaculture: Life Cycle, Growth, Aquaculture Practices and Challenges. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering , 11, Article No. 2008. https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse11102008
Golani, D. (1998) Distribution of Lessepsian Migrant Fish in the Mediterranean. Italian Journal of Zoology , 65, 95-99. https://doi.org/10.1080/11250009809386801
Golani, D., Reef-Motro, R., Ekshtein, S., Baranes, A. and Diamant, A. (2007) Ichthyofauna of the Rocky Coastal Littoral of the Israeli Mediterranean, with Reference to the Paucity of Red Sea (Lessepsian) Migrants in This Habitat. Marine Biology Researc h , 3, 333-341. https://doi.org/10.1080/17451000701635110
Ben Rais Lasram, F., Tomasini, J.A., Romdhane, M.S., Do Chi, T. and Mouillot, D. (2008) Historical Colonization of the Mediterranean Sea by Atlantic Fishes: Do Biological Traits Matter? Hydrobiologia , 607, 51-62. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10750-008-9366-4
Safriel, U.N. (2013) The “Lessepsian Invasion”—A Case Study Revisited. Israel Journal of Ecology and Evolution , 59, 214-238. https://doi.org/10.1080/15659801.2013.930994
Evans, J., Arndt, E. and Schembri, P. (2020) Atlantic Fishes in the Mediterranean: Using Biological Traits to Assess the Origin of Newcomer Fishes. Marine Ecology Prog ress Series , 643, 133-143. https://doi.org/10.3354/meps13353
Tsadok, R., Zemah-Shamir, Z., Shemesh, E., Martinez, S., Ramon, D., Kolski, I., et al . (2023) Dietary Habits Change of Lessepsian Migrants’ Fish from the Red Sea to the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Aquatic Invasions , 18, 521-531. https://doi.org/10.3391/ai.2023.18.4.113532
Abdul Malak, D.A. (2011) Overview of the Conservation Status of the Marine Fishes of the Mediterranean Sea. IUCN.
Otero, M., Cebrian, E., Francour, P., Galil, B. and Savini, D. (2013) Monitoring Marine Invasive Species in Mediterranean Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): A Strategy and Practical Guide for Managers. IUCN, 133 p.
Robertson, A., Garcia, A., Quintana, H., Smith, T., II, B., Reale-Munroe, K., et al . (2013) Invasive Lionfish ( Pterois volitans ): A Potential Human Health Threat for Ciguatera Fish Poisoning in Tropical Waters. Marine Drugs , 12, 88-97. https://doi.org/10.3390/md12010088
Diaz, J.H. (2015) Invasive Lionfish ( Pterois volitans ) Pose Public Health Threats. The Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society , 167, 166-172.
Tanriverdi, R. and Gökoğlu, M. (2022) Impacts, Awareness and Management of Lionfish Envenomation in Turkey. Marine and Life Sciences , 4, 84-90. https://doi.org/10.51756/marlife.1103648
Abd Rabou, A.N., Elkahlout, K.E., Elnabris, K.J., Shurrab, H.M., Almalfouh, A.M., Baroud, A.F., et al . (2023) Rare Records of the Exotic Reef Stonefish ( Synanceia verrucosa Bloch and Schneider, 1801) in the Mediterranean Waters of the Gaza Strip, Palestine. International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies , 10, 24-28. https://doi.org/10.22271/23940522.2023.v10.i3a.963
Akyol, O. and Ünal, V. (2017) Long Journey of Lagocephalus sceleratus (Gmelin, 1789) throughout the Mediterranean Sea. Natural and Engineering Sciences , 2, 41-47. https://doi.org/10.28978/nesciences.369534
Ulman, A., Yildiz, T., Demirel, N., Canak, O., Yemişken, E. and Pauly, D. (2021) The Biology and Ecology of the Invasive Silver-Cheeked Toadfish ( Lagocephalus sceleratus ), with Emphasis on the Eastern Mediterranean. NeoBiota , 68, 145-175. https://doi.org/10.3897/neobiota.68.71767
Bal, H. and Khan, U. (2022) The Invasive Silver-Cheeked Toadfish, Lagocephalus sceleratus (Gmelin, 1789) Appeared in the Sea of Marmara after More than a Decade: A Call for Awareness. Ege Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences , 39, 261-266. https://doi.org/10.12714/egejfas.39.3.12
Chaikin, S., De-Beer, G., Yitzhak, N., Stern, N. and Belmaker, J. (2022) The Invasive Silver-Cheeked Toadfish ( Lagocephalus sceleratus ) Predominantly Impacts the Behavior of Other Non-Indigenous Species in the Eastern Mediterranean. Biological Invasions , 25, 983-990. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-022-02972-7
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2019) On the Occurrence and Health Risks of the Silver-Cheeked Toadfish ( Lagocephalus sceleratus Gmelin, 1789) in the Marine Ecosystem of the Gaza Strip, Palestine. Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity , 20, 2618-2625. https://doi.org/10.13057/biodiv/d200926
Ulman, A., Abd Rabou, A.N., Al Mabruk, S., Bariche, M., Bilecenoğlu, M., Demirel, N., et al . (2024) Assessment of Human Health Impacts from Invasive Pufferfish (Attacks, Poisonings and Fatalities) across the Eastern Mediterranean. Biology , 13, Article No. 208. https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13040208
Ben Souissi, J., Rifi, M., Ghanem, R., Ghozzi, L., Boughedir, W. and Azzurro, E. (2014) Lagocephalus sceleratus (Gmelin, 1789) Expands through the African Coasts towards the Western Mediterranean Sea: A Call for Awareness. Management of Biological Invasions , 5, 357-362. https://doi.org/10.3391/mbi.2014.5.4.06
Cerri, F., Ubaldi, P.G., Galli, P. and Azzurro, E. (2022) Invasive Species Drive Human Poisoning: The Case of the Silver Cheeked Pufferfish Lagocephalus sceleratus (Gmelin, 1789). International Journal of Zoology and Animal Biology , 5, 1-7. https://doi.org/10.23880/izab-16000428
Anastasiou, T.I., Kagiampaki, E., Kondylatos, G., Tselepides, A., Peristeraki, P. and Mandalakis, M. (2023) Assessing the Toxicity of Lagocephalus sceleratus Pufferfish from the Southeastern Aegean Sea and the Relationship of Tetrodotoxin with Gonadal Hormones. Marine Drugs , 21, Article No. 520. https://doi.org/10.3390/md21100520
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2011) On the Ecology of Wadi Gaza, Gaza Strip: Survey and Assessment (Wildlife Is Focused). Lap Lambert Academic Publishing, 304 p.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2019) The Mammalian, Reptilian and Amphibian Fauna of Al-Mawasi Ecosystem, South-Western Gaza Strip-Palestine. Agricultural Research & Technology : Open Access Journal , 23, 301-314.
Salman, I., Salsaa’, M. and Qumsiyeh, M.B. (2014) Distribution and Cytogenetics of Amphibians from the Occupied Palestinian Territories (West Bank of Jordan). Jordan Natural of History Journal , 1, 86-98.
Khalaf, N.A. (2008) Amphibia Palaestina: The Amphibians of Palestine. Gazelle : The Palestinian Biological Bulletin , 84, 1-18.
Gafny, S. and Roll, U. (2025) Status and Decline of the Amphibians of Israel. In: Heatwole, H., Das, I. and King, S., Eds., Status of Decline and Conservation of Amphibians of the Middle East , Springer, 57-94. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-68985-7_3
Disi, A.M., Amr, Z.S. and Hamidan, N. (2014). Diversity, Threats, and Conservation of the Terrestrial and Freshwater Herpetofauna of Jordan. Russian Journal of Herpetology , 21, 221-233.
Eid, E. (2025) Amphibians of Jordan: Conservation Status, Distribution, and Threats. In: Heatwole, H., Das, I. and King, S., Eds., Status of Decline and Conservation of Amphibians of the Middle East , Springer, 121-150. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-68985-7_5
Ibrahim, A.A. (2004) The Reptile Community of the Zaranik Protected Area, North Sinai, Egypt with Special Reference to Their Ecology and Conservation. Egyptian Journal of Natural History , 3, 81-92. https://doi.org/10.4314/ejnh.v3i1.30003
Ibrahim, A.A. (2013) The Herpetology of the Suez Canal Zone, Egypt. Vertebrate Zoology , 63, 87-110. https://doi.org/10.3897/vz.63.e31414
Albaba, I. (2016) The Herpetofauna of Palestine: A Preliminary Checklist. Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies , 4, 123-128.
El-Gabbas, A., Baha El Din, S., Zalat, S. and Gilbert, F. (2016) Conserving Egypt’s Reptiles under Climate Change. Journal of Arid Environments , 127, 211-221. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaridenv.2015.12.007
Handal, E.N., Amr, Z.S. and Qumsiyeh, M.B. (2016) Some Records of Reptiles from the Palestinian Territories. Russian Journal of Herpetology , 23, 261-270.
Qumsiyeh, M.B. (2016) Fauna of Wadi Al-Quff Protected Area: Amphibians, Reptiles and Mammals. Jordan Journal of Natural History , 3, 70-79.
Soliman, S. and Mohallal, E. (2016) The Vertebrate Fauna Recorded from Northeastern Sinai, Egypt. Egyptian Journal of Desert Research , 66, 35-55. https://doi.org/10.21608/ejdr.2018.5766
Eid, E., Al Hassani, I., Al Share, T., Abed, O. and Amr, Z. (2011) Animal Trade in Amman Local Market, Jordan. Jordan Journal of Biological Sciences , 4, 101-108.
Al-Sweirki, S.H. (2022) Animal Trade in Pet Shops of the Gaza City-Palestine. M.Sc. Thesis, Islamic University of Gaza.
El Mouden, E.H., Slimani, T., Ben Kaddour, K., Lagarde, F., Ouhammou, A. and Bonnet, X. (2006) Testudo Graeca Graeca Feeding Ecology in an Arid and Overgrazed Zone in Morocco. Journal of Arid Environments , 64, 422-435. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaridenv.2005.06.010
Al-Rabi, A., Abd Rabou, A.N. and Musleh, R. (2023) Chapter 8. Marine Environment and Coast (Mediterranean and Dead Sea). In: State of the Environment Report in the State of Palestine 2023, Environment Quality Authority, 278-334.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2025) On the Status of the Loggerhead Sea Turtle ( Caretta caretta Linnaeus, 1758) (Reptilia: Testudines: Cheloniidae) in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. Examines in Marine Biology & Oceanography , 7, 1-13. https://doi.org/10.31031/eimbo.2025.07.000665
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2025) On the Status of the Green Sea Turtle ( Chelonia mydas Linnaeus, 1758) (Reptilia: Testudines: Cheloniidae) in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. Examines in Marine Biology & Oceanography , 7, EIMBO.000669.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2025) A Look at the By-Catch and Stranding of Leatherback Sea Turtles ( Dermochelys coriacea Vandelli 1761) (Reptilia: Testudines: Dermochelyidae) in the Gaza Strip-Palestine. JOJ Wildlife & Biodiversity , 5, Article ID: 555664.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2024) On the Palestinian Reptilian Fauna Caged and/or Kept Stuffed at Zoos of the Gaza Strip. Open Journal of Ecology , 14, 950-980. https://doi.org/10.4236/oje.2024.1412056
Handal, E.N., Amr, Z.S., Basha, W.S. and Qumsiyeh, M.B. (2021) Illegal Trade in Wildlife Vertebrate Species in the West Bank, Palestine. Journal of Asia - Pacific Biodiversity , 14, 636-639. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.japb.2021.07.004
Sivan, N. and Werner, Y.L. (1992) Survey of the Reptiles of the Golan Plateau and Mt. Hermon, Israel. Israel Journal of Zoology , 37, 193-211.
Stanner, M. and Mendelssohn, H. (1986) The Diet of Varanus griseus in the South-ern Coastal Plain of Israel. Israel Journal of Zoology , 34, 67-75.
Tsellarius, A.Y., Tsellarius, E.Y. and Men’shikov, Y.G. (2011) Notes on the Diet and Foraging of Varanus griseus . Russian Journal of Herpetology , 4, 170-181. https://doi.org/10.30906/1026-2296-1997-4-2-170-181
Kumlutas, Y., Oz, M., Durmus, H., Tunc, M.R., Ozdemir, A. and Dusen, S. (2004) On Some Lizard Species of the Western Taurus Range. Turkish Journal of Zoology , 28, 225-236.
Amr, Z.S. and Disi, A.M. (2011) Systematics, Distribution and Ecology of the Snakes of Jordan. Vertebrate Zoology , 61, 179-266. https://doi.org/10.3897/vz.61.e31150
Albaba, I.M. (2017) Venomous Snakes and Envenomation in Palestine. Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies , 5, 493-495.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2019) On the Occurrence and Health Risks of the Venomous Palestine Viper ( Vip era palaestinae Werner, 1938) in the Gaza Strip-Palestine. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research , 18, 13934-13937. https://doi.org/10.26717/bjstr.2019.18.003219
Rima, M., Alavi Naini, S.M., Karam, M., Sadek, R., Sabatier, J. and Fajloun, Z. (2018) Vipers of the Middle East: A Rich Source of Bioactive Molecules. Molecules , 23, Article No. 2721. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules23102721
Abu Baker, M.A., Al-Saraireh, M., Amr, Z., Amr, S.S. and Warrell, D.A. (2022) Snakebites in Jordan: A Clinical and Epidemiological Study. Toxicon , 208, 18-30. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.01.005
Kochva, E. (1998) Venomous Snakes of Israel: Ecology and Snakebite. Public Health Review , 26, 209-232.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2011) Environmental Impacts Associated with the Beit Lahia Wastewater Treatment Plant, North Gaza Strip, Palestine. Middle - East Journal of Scientific Research ( MEJSR ), 7, 746-757.
Abd Rabou, A.N., Jarayseh, B.S., Sirdah, L.M., Sirdah, M.M., Ababsa, S.A., Al-Hali, D.I., et al . (2023) Checklist of the Birds of the Gaza Strip—Palestine. Open Journal of Ecology , 13, 155-182. https://doi.org/10.4236/oje.2023.133011
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2019) Bird Fauna Encountered at the Main Campus of the Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine. Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity , 20, 604-614. https://doi.org/10.13057/biodiv/d200242
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2019) Ornithofauna Prevailing at Al-Mawasi Ecosystem of the Gaza Strip, Palestine. Open Journal of Ecology , 9, 360-400. https://doi.org/10.4236/oje.2019.99025
Abd Rabou, A.N. and Abd Rabou, M.A. (2019) Notes on the Pigeons and Doves (Family Columbidae) Occurring in the Gaza Strip-Palestine. Jordan Journal of Natural History ( JJNH ), 6, 30-38.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2011) Notes on Some Palestinian Bird Fauna Existing in the Zoological Gardens of the Gaza Strip. American - Eurasian Journal of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences ( AEJAES ), 11, 159-172.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2021) On the Hunting of the Common Quail ( Coturnix coturnix Linnaeus, 1758) along the Mediterranean Coast of the Gaza Strip-Palestine. IUG Journal of Natural Studies , 29, 1-19.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2020) On the Owls (Order Strigiformes) Inhabiting the Gaza Strip-Palestine: Mini Review. JOJ Wildlife & Biodiversity , 3, JOJWB.MS.ID.555603.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2022) On the Occurrence, Trapping and Potential Risks of the Invasive Indian Myna ( Acridotheres tristis Linnaeus, 1766) in the Gaza Strip: Palestine. International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies , 9, 45-55. https://doi.org/10.22271/23940522.2022.v9.i5a.933
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2022) On the Trapping and Risks of the Invasive Rose-Ringed Parakeet ( Psittacula kramer Scopoli, 1769) in the Gaza Strip-Palestine. Open Access Journal of Biomedical Science , 4, 2112-2120.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2022) On the Poaching of and the Threats Facing the Chukar Partridge ( Alectoris ch ukar J.E. Gray, 1830) in Palestine. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research , 46, MS.ID.007403. https://doi.org/10.26717/bjstr.2022.46.007403
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2022) The Goldfinch ( Carduelis carduelis Linnaeus, 1758) in Palestine: An Appreciated Bird and a Threatened Species. Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research , 47, MS.ID.007287. https://doi.org/10.26717/bjstr.2022.47.007437
Abd Rabou, A.N., Alashqar, O.J., Al-Agha, M.R., Qaraman, A.A., Khalaf, N.A., Rouqa, D.J., et al . (2025) On the Birds Adorning the Courtyards of the Blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque in Al-Quds (Jerusalem), Palestine, with a Special Focus on Rock and Feral Pigeons. Open Journal of Ecology ( OJE ), 15, 467-499.
Perlman, Y. and Meyrav, J. (2009) Checklist of the Birds of Israel. Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (SPNI), 29 p.
Khalilieh, A. (2016) Avifaunal Baseline Assessment of Wadi Al-Quff Protected Area and Its Vicinity, Hebron, Palestine. Jordan Journal of Natural History , 3, 58-69.
Ericson, P.G.P., Irestedt, M. and Johansson, U.S. (2003) Evolution, Biogeography, and Patterns of Diversification in Passerine Birds. Journal of Avian Biology , 34, 3-15. https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-048x.2003.03121.x
Ericson, P.G., Klopfstein, S., Irestedt, M., Nguyen, J.M. and Nylander, J.A. (2014) Dating the Diversification of the Major Lineages of Passeriformes (Aves). BMC Evolutionary Biology , 14, Article No. 8. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2148-14-8
Abigail, K., Rosina, K., Daniel, A.K. and Holbech, L.H. (2013) Foraging Activities, Success and Efficiency of Cattle Egrets ( Bubulcus ibis ) in Three Habitat Types in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Journal of Biological and Food Science Research , 2, 45-50.
Dardona, A.W. and Khalaf N.A. (2015) Studying Aquatic Birds in the Area between the Gaza Fishermen Port and Wadi Gaza Estuary, Gaza Strip, Palestine. Gazelle : The Palestinian Biological Bulletin , 124, 22-39.
Ali, A.M.S., Asokan, S. and Manikannan, R. (2010) Habitat-Related Density and Activity Patterns of the White-Breasted Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis in Cauvery Delta, Southern India. Podoces , 5, 54-62.
Roll, U., Dayan, T. and Simberloff, D. (2007) Non-Indigenous Terrestrial Vertebrates in Israel and Adjacent Areas. Biological Invasions , 10, 659-672. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-007-9160-7
Khoury, F., Amr, Z., Hamidan, N., Hassani, I., Mir, S., Eid, E., et al . (2012) Some Introduced Vertebrate Species to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Vertebrate Zoology , 62, 435-451. https://doi.org/10.3897/vz.62.e31404
Charter, M., Izhaki, I., Ben Mocha, Y. and Kark, S. (2016) Nest-Site Competition between Invasive and Native Cavity Nesting Birds and Its Implication for Conservation. Journal of Environmental Management , 181, 129-134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2016.06.021
Holzapfel, C., Levin, N., Hatzofe, O. and Kark, S. (2006) Colonization of the Middle East by the Invasive Common Myna Acridotheres tristis L., with Special Reference to Israel. Sandgrouse , 28, 44-51.
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2022) Notes on the Non-Flying Mammalian Fauna Characterizing Both Sides of the Green Line; The De Facto Border between the Gaza Strip and Historic Palestine. Israa University Journal for Applied Science , 6, 191-227. https://doi.org/10.52865/xcni7857
Abd Rabou, A.N. (2023) Concerns Associated with the Sporadic Occurrence of the Arabian Wolf ( Canis lupus Linnaeus, 1758) in the Eastern Gaza Strip-Palestine. International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies , 10, 7-18.
Albaba, I. (2016) The Terrestrial Mammals of Palestine: A Preliminary Checklist. International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies , 3, 28-35.
Al-Ahdal, F.Q.M. (2024) The Ruling on Eating Snakes, Lizards, Mice, and Hedgehogs: A Comparative Jurisprudential Study. Journal of the Faculty of Islamic and Arabic Studies for Girls in Alexandria , 40, 1329-1406.
Yom-Tov, Y. (2003) Poaching of Israeli Wildlife by Guest Workers. Biological Conservation , 110, 11-20. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0006-3207(02)00169-6
Radwan, E.S. (2017) The Current Status of the Date Palm Tree ( Phoenix dactylifera L.) and Its Uses in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. M.Sc. Dissertation, Department of Bi-ology, Islamic University of Gaza, 143 p.
Abd Rabou, A.N. and Radwan, E.S. (2017) The Current Status of the Date Palm ( Phoenix dactylifera ) and Its Uses in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. Biodiversitas Journal of Biological Diversity , 18, 1047-1061. https://doi.org/10.13057/biodiv/d180324
Moran, S. and Keidar, H. (1993) Checklist of Vertebrate Damage to Agriculture in Israel. Crop Protection , 12, 173-182. https://doi.org/10.1016/0261-2194(93)90105-r
Albayrak, İ., Aşan, N. and Yorulmaz, T. (2008) The Natural History of the Egyptian Fruit Bat, Rousettus aegyptiacus , in Turkey (Mammalia: Chiroptera). Turkish Journal of Zoology , 32, 11-18.
Rizk, A.M., Ahmed, H.A.A. and El-Bakhshawngi, M.I.A. (2022) Damage of the Egyptian Fruit Bat ( Rousettus aegyptiacus ) at El-Dakhla Oasis, New-Valley Governorate, Egypt. Indian Journal of Agricultural Research , 57, 697-700. https://doi.org/10.18805/ijare.af-743
Burgin, C.J., Colella, J.P., Kahn, P.L. and Upham, N.S. (2018) How Many Species of Mammals Are There? Journal of Mammalogy , 99, 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1093/jmammal/gyx147
Mason, G. and Littin, K.E. (2003) The Humaneness of Rodent Pest Control. Animal Welfare , 12, 1-37. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0962728600025355
Castaño, P.A., Campbell, K.J., Baxter, G.S., Carrión, V., Cunninghame, F., Fisher, P., et al . (2022) Managing Non-Target Wildlife Mortality Whilst Using Rodenticides to Eradicate Invasive Rodents on Islands. Biological Invasions , 24, 3423-3440. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10530-022-02860-0