Impact of the expansion in fertilizer industry on the levels of ammonia and urea of Messaieed Marine Area (Qatar), Arabian Gulf

Fertilizer industry is an expanding gas based industry in Qatar. About 3X10 (3) and 5X10(3) MT of ammonia and Urea ate being discharged annually as liq uid wastes to the marine environment. During 1997/98, this amount raised th e levels of ammonia and urea to 150 mu M and 55 mu M, respectively near the outfall, compared to background concentrations of 0.2 mu M and 0.05 mu M, respectively. The dispersion of the outfall water depends on wind direction . tidal and current regimes. Despite the dilution with coastal waters, the unionized Corm of ammonia is considered toxic to marine life of Messaieed M arine Area, especially during the warm season. This resulted in the disappe arance of plant and animal life at the near shore area.