KRABI — 27 April 2026, Coral reefs in Ao Nang have shown signs of paling, with about 20% of live coral affected, raising concerns of possible bleaching as sea temperatures rise.
Saengsuree Songthong, chief of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, said officials conducted an underwater survey on 26 April led by Nattawat Limsunthon, assistant park chief, around the western side of Koh Samet, Ao Nang subdistrict, Mueang Krabi district, covering an area of 4,068 square metres.
Sea temperatures were recorded at 32°C, dropping to 31°C in shaded areas created by natural underwater structures at depths of 2.9–9.7 metres.
The survey found 20% of live coral in normal condition, while another 20% showed signs of paling. Affected species included massive corals, large star corals, staghorn corals, brain corals, Pavona cactus coral, galaxy coral, honeycomb coral, small-grooved brain corals, smaller star corals and angular star corals.
One colony of Pavona cactus coral was found fully bleached, while about 30% of coral in the area was already dead. Other bleaching-sensitive marine life, including giant clams, soft corals and sea anemones, showed about 3% paling.
Officials installed a 100-metre boundary buoy line near Ao Pu Ya on Koh Poda, collected about 25 kilogrammes of marine debris from the reef area and removed one fishing trap, which contained no marine life.
Authorities said they will closely monitor the situation, warning that sustained sea temperatures of up to 32°C could worsen coral bleaching in the coming period.