The Values of Biological Diversity of Halong Bay - Halong Bay Realistic

Halong Bay has a very complicated structure with its meandering coastline and many river mouths. Rich and diversified sources of food for many species of plants and animals are also found here. In particular, the bay, partitioned by thousands of large and small islands, creates areas of water with an average and stable sea level. Meanwhile, the climate in Halong Bay is also very stable, with an average temperature of between 19°and 25°C, and an average heat radiation rate of 17 kcal/ sq. cm/ month. It sees an average rainfall of 2,000 to 2,200 mm/a year. These favorable conditions have seen the development of many varied ecosystems.

Results of scientific research show that Halong Bay features ecosystems of a tropical ocean region, such as: salt water flooded forests, coral reefs and tropical rain forests. In the sea surrounding Halong, coral grows in many places, but is densely concentrated on the eastern and southern sides, far from the mainland. The coral forests of Halong Bay are a wonderful sight, with many extraordinary shapes and diversified colors. When the tide flows, the coral moves with the water, pumping as rhythmically as a heartbeat. At the same time, the reefs are residence to a great number of species: fish (107 varieties), water plants, algae and transitory animals and plants.

The salt water-flooded forests also offer especially interesting scenery along the coastline of Halong Bay. These forests are chiefly concentrated in the zones of Tuan Chau, Cua Luc and Ba Che. Many species of salt water-flooded plants, the most diversified collection in North Vietnam, are found here. The tropical rain forest ecosystem also features a rich quantity of species. This is the residence of various rare and precious creatures: deer, weasels, squirrels and in particular, white-tabby and red-haired monkeys. At the same time, there is a system of small caves along the sea, which are the living and development places for many animals and plants: seaweed, water plants, algae, fish and shrimp. Deeper into the water, there are also many species of shrimp, fish (almost 1,000 species), abalone and other sea specialties.