Latest news with #Carcharhinusmelanopterus
Bangkok Post
11-07-2025
- Science
- Bangkok Post
158 blacktip sharks spotted in Maya Bay
A record number of blacktip reef sharks, or Carcharhinus melanopterus, were seen in Maya Bay in Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park last week, with 158 sharks spotted in a survey by the Marine National Park Research Centre Region 3. The survey, which was carried out between July 2-8, saw aerial drones and underwater BRUVs (Baited Remote Underwater Video) deployed to count the sharks' numbers and study their behaviour in their natural habitat. On July 3, researchers found 158 blacktip reef sharks in Maya Bay, the highest number of blacktip reef sharks observed at one time in the bay. This large gathering of sharks, they said, is a sign of a healthy marine ecosystem. As apex predators, blacktip reef sharks play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. The survey's findings will be used to support future planning for conservation efforts and sustainable ecotourism development in Maya Bay, stated the research team.
Bangkok Post
10-07-2025
- Science
- Bangkok Post
158 blacktip reef sharks spotted in Maya Bay
Thai marine researchers have reported a remarkable sighting of 158 blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) off the coast of the southern province of Krabi. The sighting was made in Maya Bay, part of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, said the researchers from the Marine National Park Research Centre Region 3 (Trang). The presence of so many sharks is another encouraging sign for Maya Bay, which has become a model for successful marine conservation after years of ecological restoration efforts. The site gained fame — and notoriety — as the locale for the hit movie The Beach 25 years ago. The discovery was made during a survey conducted from July 2-8 as part of the Shark Watch Project. It marks the highest number of blacktip reef sharks observed at one time in the bay, according to the research team. The peak occurred on the morning of July 3 when researchers spotted all 158 sharks simultaneously using aerial drones and BRUV (baited remote underwater video) units to count and study their natural behaviour. Th large gathering of sharks is seen as a positive sign of a healthy marine ecosystem, the researchers said. As apex predators, blacktip reef sharks play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. The findings will support future conservation planning and sustainable ecotourism in Maya Bay, which continues to recover after years of environmental restoration, said the research team.
