Ko Kham is located within the Khao Pa Chang–Laem Kham Non-Hunting Area in Thepha District, Songkhla Province. It is a coastal area of significant marine importance, particularly for its shallow coral reef ecosystems, which serve as habitats, nursery grounds, and feeding areas for a wide range of marine organisms.
The reef biodiversity survey at Ko Kham was conducted in August 2020 through a collaboration between the Coastal Oceanography and Climate Change Research Center (COCC), Chumphon Marine National Park Operation Center 1, and the Khao Pa Chang–Laem Kham Non-Hunting Area. The objective of the study was to establish baseline information on coral reef resources and marine biodiversity to support effective conservation and management of the area.
The survey results indicated that seawater quality around Ko Kham was within good condition and did not exceed environmental standards, despite the influence of freshwater input and sediment during the monsoon season. The coral reefs were classified as being in moderate to good condition, with higher reef health observed on the western side of the island compared to the eastern side. Live coral cover exceeded 50%, with dominant coral species including massive corals, flower corals, honeycomb corals, and ice-like textured corals.
In addition, a high diversity of marine life was recorded, including at least 14 species of reef fishes—among them indicator species reflecting reef health—and more than 10 species of large benthic invertebrates such as sponges, gorgonian sea fans, sea urchins, and nudibranchs. These findings indicate that the coral reef ecosystem at Ko Kham remains functional and ecologically healthy.
Based on the study, a technical report (in Thai) was produced to support marine conservation planning and management. Furthermore, public outreach materials were developed in the form of an educational poster entitled “Kham’s Underwater Garden” to disseminate knowledge and raise awareness among local communities and the general public about the value of coral reef resources.
At present, Ko Kham has become increasingly popular for marine-based tourism activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and beach recreation, with visitation expected to rise in the future. Although only minor impacts on coral reefs and marine debris were observed, inadequate management could lead to long-term degradation of these valuable resources.
The report therefore recommends the establishment of clear zoning and conservation measures, including the installation of mooring buoys, regulation of fishing activities in coral reef areas, visitor education, and continuous site management. These actions are essential to maintaining a balance between sustainable use and long-term conservation of marine resources.
The protection of Ko Kham’s coral reefs is not the responsibility of a single organization, but a shared commitment among all stakeholders, ensuring that this marine ecosystem continues to support local communities and remains a rich natural heritage for future generations.
The electronic version of the technical report (in Thai) is available at: รายงานทรัพยากรแนวปะการังเกาะขาม
