The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DMCR) revealed seven coral bleaching sites have been identified in Moo Koh Surin National Park in Phang Nga, with up to 70% of coral fields around Krabi’s Phi Phi Island also affected.

 

An investigation into the bleaching situation, conducted over two days, revealed that seven coral reef sites in Moo Koh Surin National Park are experiencing bleaching ranging from 5% to 50%. The probe, carried out on May 12-13, involved measuring seawater temperatures to assess the extent of the damage.

 

The most severe bleaching was observed near Koh Torinla, where mushroom coral reefs at depths of two to 10 metres were found to be completely bleached in some areas. In addition, 30% of reefs at the same depth displayed pale colours.

 

Other locations within the national park also showed varying levels of bleaching: 30% in Ao Tao and Ao Chong Kad, 20% in Ao Trian, 10% in Ao Mae Yai, and 5% in Ao Suthep and Ao Pakkard.

The national park is currently closed for the rainy season, with plans to reopen on October 15.

 

Around Phi Phi Island in Krabi, several areas are temporarily closed due to significant coral bleaching, affecting more than 50% of the coral reefs in the region, said Yuthapong Damsrisuk, chief of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park.

 

“Snorkelling and scuba diving activities are suspended in affected areas such as Kai Island, Khangkhao Bay, Rai Lay Bay, Daeng Island, and Yavasum Island.”

 

In response to the situation, the marine national park has designated new snorkelling areas for visitors to use, aiming to mitigate the impact on the vulnerable coral sites, reported Bangkok Post.

 

By Bob Scott

 

Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-22

 

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Divers and snorkellers have no effect at all on reefs with regard to the bleaching! Yes, clumsy or uncaring humans can damage reefs, but we don't contribute (directly) to the bleaching!

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

“Snorkelling and scuba diving activities are suspended in affected areas such as Kai Island, Khangkhao Bay, Rai Lay Bay, Daeng Island, and Yavasum Island.”

Why... or do they not want bad publicity regarding the coral reefs?

No big deal the reefs are barren of fish life anyway from overfishing or illegal fishing.  If you want to see underwater sea life cross Thailand off your list.