Marine algal species and marine protected area management: A case study in Phu Quoc, Kien Giang, Vietnam

As with many other marine protected areas in Vietnam, little is known of the marine algal species and their status within the Phu Quoc Marine Protected Area (Phu Quoc MPA), Kien Giang, Vietnam, although these species are known to have economic and conservation value. The knowledge limitations may partly be due to the fact that marine algal species have not been a major focus of surveys and monitoring programmes. This study applied a mixed methods approach for developing an adequate understanding of the status of marine algal species occurring in the An Thoi coral reef strictly protected zone of Phu Quoc MPA. 41 marine algal species were fully described, along with details about habitats, biodiversity, economic and conservation values, and challenges to the conservation of these species. Three of 41 species recorded are listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book, a list of rare and endangered floral and faunal species native to Vietnam. This listing adds a new dimension to the literature with regard to distribution and habitats. The remaining species are known to be of economic value. Two islands, which are not strictly protected zones, are home to two vulnerable algal species. Marine algal species have been poorly managed and monitored as a consequence of insufficient legal frameworks, resulting in little documentation of the effects of socio-economic and tourism development on the marine algal species. The current zoning plan should be revised to expand core zones for the effective management of the algal species. Technical guidelines on zoning and zoning permit should be developed to promote the co-management of algal species for the protection of the species and livelihoods, and to ease illegal exploitation of marine algal species in Phu Quoc MPA.