The first ever extensive scientific marine survey to virgin territory of 800 island Myeik. (Mergui) Archipelago was conducted earlier this by a team of scientists from FFI (Flora and fauna International) and marine specialists. The team recorded hundreds of species of marine life and four new types of coral, several invertebrates and fish as well as a few species like barramundi cod and ornate ghost pipe fish that were not known to exists in Southeast Asian waters and are more commonly met in Africa and East Asia.
According to the team’s findings some of the northern archipelago reefs have up 80% hard coral coverage and are in excellent condition. Damage from dynamite fishing and drag net fishing was less than expected. Myanmar has least protected marine areas out of all Southeast Asian countries. Protection proposals are on the way to make Myeik. (Mergui) Archipelago a marine sanctuary and even a world heritage site.
The region has good potential to become a tourism hot spot in the future and will be hopefully developed sustainably. Myanmar is applying for Unesco World Heritage status for Mergui (Myeik) Archipelago.
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