Maya Bay 'a haven' for blacktip reef sharksBlacktip reef sharks swim at Maya Bay in Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. Marine National Park Operations Centre 3The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has confirmed that Maya Bay is a vital nursery ground for blacktip reef sharks after a recent survey recorded an unusually high concentration of the species. The DNP's Marine National Park Education and Research Centre 3 (Trang) conducted a population and behaviour survey of blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) under the Shark Watch Project from Jan 31 to Feb 6 at Maya Bay, inside Krabi's Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. Officials spotted as many as 118 sharks at one time, confirming the bay's role as a key breeding habitat. As apex predators, blacktip reef sharks play a crucial role in maintaining an ecological balance, and their healthy population signals a thriving marine ecosystem in Maya Bay.

Source: Bangkok Post February 16, 2026 19:54 UTC