Conservationists spot coral spawning for 2nd time in Cambodia waters

PHNOM PENH, April 30 (Xinhua) -- A conservationist group has sighted coral spawning for the second time at Koh Rong Archipelago in southwest Cambodia's Preah Sihanouk province, said a joint press release on Wednesday.

Fauna & Flora-Cambodia Program, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, has successfully conducted a mass coral spawning survey at Koh Rong Archipelago between February and March 2025 during the predicted spawning season.

"This marks the second year of our team's research into coral spawning in Cambodian waters, following initial discoveries in 2024 and again in 2025," the press release said.

"The identification of coral spawning in 2025 underscores the success of collaborative conservation efforts by ministries, institutions, authorities, and relevant organizations," it added.

The team has been closely monitoring the health and conditions of coral reefs in Cambodia's coastal waters to gather and record data on coral reproduction.

Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Dith Tina said the coral spawning witnessed in Cambodia's waters for two consecutive years is a powerful symbol of hope, and a reflection of the thriving natural conditions that sustain coral life, health, and regeneration.

This extraordinary event is not merely a natural wonder; it is the living proof of the royal government of Cambodia's steadfast dedication to safeguarding our marine ecosystems for generations to come, he said.

Eang Sophalleth, minister of environment, said the coral spawning was a good sign that the status of the marine environment in Cambodia is improving and healthy.

"This improvement is due to strengthened conservation and monitoring actions that affect the marine environment," he said. "Coral conservation and reproduction are important in protecting the marine environment, as corals play an important role in safeguarding marine ecosystems and habitats, increasing economic value through tourism, and supporting sustainable fishing."

Jun Cheng, senior program manager for Coastal & Marine Conservation Program of Fauna & Flora-Cambodia Program, said she was incredibly excited to witness coral spawning at Koh Rong for the second time.

This event underscores the importance of the collaborative conservation work and the need to continue protecting these vital ecosystems, she said. Enditem