Evaluation on Distribution of Halophila ovalis (R.Br.) Hook. f. in Seagrass Restoration Area by Transplants: A Case Study of Aow Boon Kong, Trang Province

Abstract

The small seagrass Halophila ovalis is a target species for restoration programs of seagrass transplants
at Aow Boon Kong, Trang Province, where seagrass beds have been degraded. This study is estimation of percentage of coverage and environmental factors are water quality, soil quality which affects the distribution of H. ovalis.
The purpose is follow up the result after the restoration of seagrass beds.  H. ovalis had high coverage in February 25.59 ± 28.77 % and decreased in August 17.92 ± 20.70 % because of the monsoon season. Sediment characteristics are loamy sand and organic matter is highest in August 2.99 ± 1.11 % consistent with nitrate 0.79 ± 0.88 mg-Nkg dry sediment. Water quality monitoring is a temperature between 30.17 to 26.94 ° C, salinity 34.1 - 34.1 ppt., and the highest turbidity  in August 5.63 NTU. These studies concluded that seagrasses have been transplanted in Aow Boon Kong are growing well due to suitable environmental factors and will be the model area of successful seagrass restoration.