- 20/07/2020
During a final June trip to Con Dao Island in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, blogger Ngo Tran Hai An was able to enter a scuba dive to the giant coral block in Hon Cau, around 6 m long and nearly 8 m high.
An said the coral block lies about 4 m below the surface and the vast diameter of it amazed him.
The block is white, and has a skin-like rough surface. Refracting light throughout the day lets it sparkle in the dark blue water.
This giant coral block is in Con Dao National Park, a strictly protected area. And very few are aware of its existence. An said he would obtain permission from local authorities for the tour.
It is the largest found coral block in Vietnam. It is situated in Con Son Bay, roughly 1,000 m away from Pier 914. This block suffered bleaching in June 2019, as the rising sea temperatures slowly killed the coral. Luckily it’s recovered to its original condition.
Coral blocks were not examined here, and their age has yet to be determined. They are said to be centuries old, however, based on the growth rate of about 1-2 cm per annum.
Con Dao National Park encompasses 19,883 ha of total surface area. The forest area is especially 5,883 ha and the ocean is 14,000 ha. With wild coral reefs, mangrove trees, seaweed, seagrass, coral reef sharks, and crustaceans, this is one of the most diverse marine areas in Vietnam.
Here, the coral ecosystem is very developed with 342 species, 61 specimens and 17 families of marine organisms, playing an important role in ocean oxygen control and balance.
Coral reefs are the home of marine animals, where eggs lay and feed. They do have an significant function, acting as a second wall to shield Con Dao from tempests and great waves.
Coral snorkelling is one of the most common activities in Con Dao at the moment. Some popular tourist destinations include Hon Sao, Hon Bay Canh, Hon Tai, and Con Son Bay.
Coral reefs come to the ocean floor in many ways here.
Source : VnExpress International