With God's help, the Master's thesis of student Noor Hamid Fakher, in the Department of Applied Marine Sciences, entitled "A Study of Nutrient Concentrations in the Sediments and Waters of the Southern Part of the Shatt al-Arab Estuary and the Northwest Arabian Gulf," was discussed under the supervision of Professor Dr. Imad Jassim Mohammed and Assistant Professor Dr. Zuhair Ali Abdul Nabi. The discussion took place at 9:00 AM on Thursday, February 26, 2026, in the Conference and Graduate Studies Hall at the College of Marine Sciences.

The examining committee consisted of the following esteemed professors:
1. Professor Dr. Makia Mahlal Khalaf / Chair

2. Assistant Professor Dr. Tariq Azbari Jassim / Member
3. Assistant Professor Dr. Youssef Shafi Jabr / Member

The study examined the concentration of nutrients in the waters and sediments of the Shatt al-Arab and the northwestern Arabian Gulf. These nutrients included nitrite, nitrate, phosphate, silica, total nitrogen, and total phosphate, which are among the most important catalysts for the growth and proliferation of phytoplankton, harmful algae, and marine reddening. The study also considered the most important physical and chemical properties of the water in the region.

The results showed a significant increase in nutrient levels in the sediments of the study area. These sediments acted as a reservoir, releasing nutrients into the water, leading to their rise and stimulating the growth of phytoplankton, harmful algae, and marine reddening.

The study recommended measures to reduce the influx of these nutrients in such large quantities into the sediments of the Shatt al-Arab estuary, as they have reached saturation levels and are causing environmental degradation. It also recommended regulating and treating all waste reaching the Shatt al-Arab and implementing regular dredging to reduce the concentration of organic matter in the riverbed.