What contributes to the large variety of fish living in the Persian Gulf?

The large variety of fish living in the Persian Gulf can be attributed to its shallowness. Shallow waters tend to have higher productivity because they receive ample sunlight, which supports the growth of phytoplankton, a crucial food source for many marine species. Additionally, shallower areas provide diverse habitats such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and estuarine environments, which together create rich ecosystems that can support a large variety of fish and other marine life.

While depth, temperature, and salinity all play roles in marine ecosystems, the shallowness directly influences habitat diversity and productivity, making it a key factor in the variety of fish species present in the Persian Gulf. The combination of these factors creates an environment conducive to sustaining a diverse range of aquatic life, highlighting the importance of the shallow regions in this body of water.