Coral reefs in Van Phong bay, Khanh Hoa province: Status and management perspectives

Abstract

This paper was developed based on available data and information from different publications and projects conducted in Van Phong bay since 1980. The total area of reefs in the bay was measured more than 1,618 ha, supporting for high species richness with records of 997 species belonging to 647 genera and 174 families of 6 major groups of organisms (reef corals: 294 species, reef fishes: 267 species, molluscs: 169 species, crustaceans: 68 species, echinoderms: 37 species and polychates: 162 species). Coral reefs were generally not in good condition with mean cover of live corals of 26.1 ± 3.6% and reef-associated target resources presented in very low densities. Some reefs still remained in good condition such as Ran Trao, Hon Den, Bai Tre, Lach Co Co, Hon My Giang and Hon Do. Over-harvestation, destructive fishing, outbreak of predators (crown of thorns starfish and Drupella snails), sedimentation and pollution have been considered as key impacts to coral reefs in the bay. Establishment of scientific baselines for effective management of biodiversity and associated resources of coral reefs and related ecosystems, development of network of small protected areas as sanctuaries and diversifying management mechanisms, development of zoning and management plan, restoration of coral reefs, raising public awareness and monitoring of coral reefs are considered as important measures for conservation and sustainable uses of marine biodiversity and resources to meet the goals for socio-economic development in short and long terms in Van Phong bay.