Coral reefs in Hon Mun marine protected area showing rapid recovery

On May 13, the Conservation Bureau of Nha Trang Bay Management Board (Khanh Hoa Provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development) conducted a site inspection at Hon Mun marine protected area, home to the most diverse coral ecosystem in Khanh Hoa Province. The results showed that the coral ecosystem is recovering rapidly from the damage that occurred nearly four years ago.

The coral ecosystem in Hon Mun sea area (Photo taken on May 13 morning)

After conducting a diving survey to monitor coral reefs, collect debris, and remove crown-of-thorns starfish at the Hon Mun marine protected area, Pham Thuy Phong Tinh, a member of Nha Trang Bay Management Board, shared his excitement: "The coral reef ecosystem is stunning and impressive! After numerous survey dives to remove crown-of-thorns starfish and collect marine litter in this area, I can now witness the rapid recovery of the coral reefs right from the seabed firsthand."

Nearly four years ago, in June 2022, the images of damaged coral reefs due to the impact of natural disasters and human activity were captured at this area. To restore the reefs, in late June 2022, Nha Trang City People's Committee at the time ordered a temporary suspension of swimming, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours in the waters of Hon Mun Island. Temporary diving sites were restricted to the northeast of Hon Rom with limited number of visitors. In November 2022, the Provincial People's Committee issued a comprehensive plan for the recovery of Nha Trang Bay through 2030 with concerted solutions. As a result, the coral reefs in this area have undergone a remarkable recovery. 

Coral reefs in Hon Mun sea area (Photo taken on May 13 morning)

Sea anemones and clownfish in Hon Mun sea area

Staff from the Conservation Bureau collecting marine litter in Hon Mun sea area on May 13 morning

Dam Hai Van, director of the Nha Trang Bay Management Board, stated that after nearly four years, assessments have indicated that the coral survival rate, distribution density, and coverage of coral in Hon Mun and Hon Chong - Dang Tat areas have increased. This is a positive sign that the ongoing efforts to recover Nha Trang Bay are proving effective. The rapid recovery and growth of the coral reefs are the result of the concerted action by the government, alongside the cooperation of local people, tourists, and international organizations in safeguarding Nha Trang Bay.

THAI THINH
Translated by H.N