Thai Marine Biologists Work to Save Coral Reefs in Thailand
Starry Night Dive
On a starry night off Man Nai Island in Thailand, four marine biologists embarked on a scuba diving adventure. They witnessed a rare phenomenon where billions of pink specks floated up from the ocean floor – the sperm and eggs released by coral during their annual spawning event.
Efforts to Save Reefs
The scientists diligently collected samples of the coral sperm and eggs to breed and restore Thailand’s expansive reefs. They face challenges from warming oceans and human activities such as tourism that threaten the coral ecosystems.
Hope for Recovery
The coral reefs in Thailand spawn only once a year, making the scientists’ research meticulous and time-consuming. It can take up to five years to raise coral juveniles in a lab before they are ready to be reintroduced back into the ocean.
Impact on Ecosystem and Economy
The degradation of Thailand’s reefs not only endangers the ocean ecosystem but also affects the country’s economy. Tourism and fisheries rely on healthy coral habitats for sustainable fish populations, making the restoration efforts crucial.
Restoration Project
In 2016, Thailand’s Department of Marine and Coastal Resources initiated a coral breeding and restoration project on Man Nai Island. With over 98 coral species, the island was chosen for its biodiversity and potential for reef restoration.
Global Coral Bleaching Event
The world faces a looming threat of a fourth mass coral bleaching event, as warned by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Rising water temperatures and environmental stressors put tropical reefs at risk of widespread destruction.
With a focus on conservation and restoration, marine biologists in Thailand strive to protect their coral reefs and preserve the underwater ecosystems for future generations.
