Krabi’s Coral Reefs Show Promising Signs of Recovery After Bleaching Event.

Krabi: Officials from Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi Province surveyed shallow-water coral reefs in Zone 4 of the park's islands and found that coral reefs were beginning to recover, the water was clear, and there were many schools of beautiful fish. It is expected that early next year, the area will be open for tourists to enjoy its beauty. According to Thai News Agency, the underwater exploration was conducted by officers in the area of Koh Kai, Zone 4, which includes Koh Poda, Koh Daeng, Ao Railay, Koh Yawasam, and other important diving sites. The inspection revealed that the underwater ecosystem is starting to recover. The seawater is clear, with temperatures ranging from 25-27 degrees Celsius. Various aquatic life, including many schools of fish and recovering corals and sea anemones, are returning to the area. Some corals have almost regained their original color, and sea turtles, sea horses, and other aquatic animals have been observed feeding, marking a recovery of about 60 percent. This follows a period of damage caused by global warming, where water temperatures exceeded 30 degrees Celsius, leading to widespread bleaching. Mr. Saengsuree Songthong, Chief of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, emphasized that despite the positive developments, it remains crucial to keep the diving sites closed to ensure the environment can fully recover. The park has been closed to tourism activities since May to protect the fragile ecosystem.