More than 280 blacktip reef sharks were spotted at Maya Bay, Phi Phi Islands, indicating a thriving marine ecosystem in the southern sea.
A recent survey, conducted by marine park officials in Trang province, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, and the Thai Sharks and Rays team, aimed to monitor the population and behavior of blacktip reef sharks in Maya Bay, part of the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi province.
Using aerial photography and drones, the team counted the blacktip reef shark population and installed underwater cameras to observe their behavior.
Preliminary findings revealed a significant increase in the blacktip reef shark population compared to previous surveys, with a staggering count of 281 sharks observed on April 23. In a previous survey on January 22, 126 blacktip reef sharks were counted.
This marks the highest number recorded in years, indicating the robustness of marine resources in the waters of Maya Bay. The data collected will undergo further analysis to guide conservation efforts.
Blacktip reef sharks are slender-bodied sharks approximately 50 centimeters in length, characterized by a wide mouth and distinctive black markings on their dorsal and caudal fins. They primarily feed on small fish and marine invertebrates, foraging at night and seeking refuge among coral reefs during the day. Unlike other shark species, they exhibit non-aggressive behavior and tend to gather in groups near the coastline, occasionally venturing into estuaries or even shallow waters as deep as one foot. (TNA)
