Cambodia Reports Increase in Seahorse Population Near Kep Islands

Cambodia Reports Increase in Seahorse Population Near Kep Islands

KEP, May 9, 2026 — Researchers in Cambodia say a growing number of seahorses spotted off the coast of Kep province is providing a positive sign of recovery in the country’s marine ecosystem and biodiversity.

According to researchers from Marine Conservation Cambodia, seahorses — considered a vulnerable marine species — have been increasingly observed in protected coastal waters around Kep’s island clusters in recent months.

Researchers said they had identified four species of seahorses in the area, with sightings becoming more frequent than in previous years.

Seahorses are regarded as unique among marine animals because males carry and incubate the young. They are typically found in calm habitats such as seagrass beds, coral reefs and mangrove forests.

Tai Chen, general manager at Horse Shoe Island for Marine Conservation Cambodia, said the increase in seahorse numbers followed the establishment of marine fisheries conservation zones and stronger cooperation among authorities, fisheries officials and local fishing communities.

She said the most noticeable increase had been recorded around Horse Shoe Island, a protected marine area located off Kep province near Cambodia’s maritime border with Vietnam.

Researchers said the return of vulnerable species such as seahorses indicated improving stability in Cambodia’s marine ecosystem following ongoing conservation efforts.

The waters around Horse Shoe Island are currently under strict protection by Marine Conservation Cambodia and Kep provincial fisheries authorities. Fishing boats and tourist vessels are prohibited from entering areas close to the conservation zone.