Cambodia: Massive coral reproduction in the Koh Rong archipelago

The Fauna & Flora-Cambodia programme, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and with the support of the Bubbles Up diving centre and the Song Saa Foundation, has successfully conducted a study on massive coral reproduction in the Koh Rong archipelago, Cambodia, between February and March 2025.

The team closely monitored the health and condition of coral reefs in Cambodian coastal waters to collect and record data on coral reproduction. This data is a valuable resource for tracking coral reef reproduction and survival processes in the region.

‘This marks the second year of our team's research into coral reproduction in Cambodian waters, following initial discoveries in 2024 and again in 2025. This identification highlights the success of collaborative conservation efforts by relevant ministries, institutions, authorities and organisations,’ the joint press release emphasises.

These initiatives have fostered conditions conducive to the survival of coral reefs in Koh Rong, ensuring their resilience and health despite the impact of massive coral bleaching in 2024, it added.

Ms. Jun Cheng, Senior Programme Officer for Coastal and Marine Conservation at Fauna & Flora-Cambodia, commented: ‘We are extremely excited to witness coral reproduction in Koh Rong for the second time. This event highlights the importance of collaborative conservation efforts and the need to continue protecting these vital ecosystems.’

H.E. Dith Tina, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, said:

"The coral spawning observed in Cambodian waters for two consecutive years is a powerful symbol of hope that reflects the natural conditions conducive to the life, health and regeneration of corals. This extraordinary event is not only a wonder of nature, it is living proof of the unwavering commitment of the Royal Government of Cambodia, under the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and in close collaboration with partner ministries, institutions and local administrations, to preserve our marine ecosystems for future generations."

H.E. Dr Eang Sophalleth, Minister of Environment, emphasised: ‘The reproduction of corals in Cambodian waters, observed for the second consecutive year, is an encouraging sign that demonstrates the improvement and good health of the marine environment in Cambodia. This improvement is the result of strengthened conservation and monitoring measures that have an impact on the marine environment. The conservation and reproduction of corals are important for the protection of the marine environment, as corals play a vital role in preserving marine ecosystems and habitats, increasing economic value through tourism, and supporting sustainable fisheries. This demonstrates the success of natural resource conservation and effective environmental management under the leadership of the Royal Government of the Kingdom of Cambodia, as well as the active participation of all relevant subnational administrations in implementing environmental conservation and development strategies in line with the policies of the Royal Government.

Massive coral reproduction in the Koh Rong archipelago

The Cambodia Wildlife Programme, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, will continue to study and document this phenomenon in order to better understand the factors contributing to the success of reproduction and to support ongoing conservation efforts, the press release concludes.