Thailand's eastern Gulf Coast is witnessing a devastating impact on its marine ecosystem as sea surface temperatures soar to record highs this month. A regional heatwave has pushed temperatures to 32.73°C, with underwater readings reaching approximately 33°C, creating a hostile environment for aquatic life.
The vibrant coral reefs, once teeming with colors and life just five meters below the surface, are now stark white in a troubling phenomenon known as coral bleaching. Marine biologist Lalita Putchim from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) reported alarming findings during her recent dive in the Trat archipelago, home to over 66 islands and 28.4 square kilometers of coral reefs.
\"I couldn't find a single healthy coral,\" Lalita stated after her dive. \"Almost all of the species have bleached, there's very little that's not affected.\" Her observations revealed that up to 30 percent of the coral life has experienced bleaching, and 5 percent has already perished. She warns that without a cooling of water temperatures, the situation will only worsen.
Sommay Singsura, a local fisherman, echoes these concerns as his daily catch dwindles. Previously earning up to 10,000 baht ($275) a day, Sommay now occasionally returns empty-handed. \"There used to be jackfish, short mackerel, and many others … But now, the situation isn't good. The weather isn't like what it used to be,\" he lamented.
Coral reefs play a crucial role not only as habitats and food sources for marine life but also as natural barriers against coastal erosion. Sarawut Siriwong, dean of the Faculty of Marine Technology at Burapha University, emphasizes the broader implications of coral bleaching. \"While this would affect food security, at the same time, their income stability is also at stake,\" he explained.
The decline in coral health and marine life poses a significant threat to local communities reliant on fishing, highlighting the urgent need for measures to address rising sea temperatures and protect Thailand's invaluable marine ecosystems.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
