Ly Son Marine Reserve
in central Quang Ngai province, covering Ly Son Island and its surrounding
areas, has a water surface of more than
The sea protected area is known for high biodiversity and an ecosystem that
houses many rare marine species like black coral, maxima clams and abalone. But
these creatures are in danger of extinction due to the activities of local
people.
Fishermen have used explosives to kill many fish, seriously
harming coral reefs. Meanwhile, hundreds of locals harvest natural brown
seaweed, which offers shelter for many sea creatures, every May and June. They
can harvest an average of 3-5 tonnes of brown seaweed daily, making it
difficult to recover.
In addition, more than 150,000 sq.m of sand from beaches is exploited each year
to cultivate garlic, causing coastal erosion and depleting sea grass beds.
To solve the problems, the provincial People’s Committee adopted a project to
use advanced technology to restore coral reefs near Ly Son Island in 2015.
Experts have been sent to survey the coral reefs and raise local awareness of
the importance of animal and environmental protection. Local authorities and
residents have also been provided with training on how to recover coral reefs.
A model for coral recovery piloted across
The province urged Ly Son Island to intensify management of the sea protected
area by requesting tour operators strictly comply with the reserve’s
regulations and keeping close watch on the density and development of rare sea
species.
The island was also urged to get local people involved in protecting natural
resources and to guide them to fish sustainably.
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