Gulf of Thailand

The Gulf of Thailand, also known as the Thai Gulf, is a body of water located in Southeast Asia. It is an extension of the South China Sea, bordered by Thailand to the west, Cambodia and Vietnam to the east, and Malaysia to the south. The Gulf plays a significant role in the economic and cultural lives of the surrounding countries, serving as a vital source of food, transportation, and tourism.

Stony Coral – Isopora brueggemanni

Rippled rockskipper – Istiblennius edentulus

Bearded ghoul – Inimicus didactylus

Stony Coral, Large Star Coral – Favites abdita

Stony Coral – Favites halicora

Knob Coral – Favites rotundata

Favites Colemani – Favites colemani

Stony Coral – Favites magnistellata

Ward’s sleeper – Valenciennea wardii

Daisy Coral – Goniopora stokesi

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Geography and Size

The Gulf of Thailand is a relatively shallow body of water, with an average depth of 45 meters (148 feet) and a maximum depth of 80 meters (260 feet). It covers an area of approximately 320,000 square kilometers (120,000 square miles). The Gulf is characterized by its unique shape, resembling a funnel opening to the south. The narrowest point of the Gulf is located at the Kra Isthmus, where it connects to the Andaman Sea.

Fauna

The Gulf of Thailand is rich in biodiversity, supporting a diverse range of marine life. The waters are home to numerous species of fish, including tuna, mackerel, shrimp, and crab. Several species of dolphins and whales, such as the Irrawaddy dolphin and the humpback whale, are also found in the Gulf. The Gulf is a significant breeding ground for sea turtles, including the endangered leatherback sea turtle.

The coral reefs of the Gulf are home to an array of colorful fish, corals, and other marine invertebrates. However, these delicate ecosystems are facing increasing threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change.

Surrounding Countries

The Gulf of Thailand is bordered by five countries:

  • Thailand
  • Cambodia
  • Vietnam
  • Malaysia
  • Myanmar (Burma) - indirectly via the Andaman Sea

Climate and Water Temperature

The Gulf of Thailand has a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. During the wet season, the Gulf is subject to heavy rainfall and strong winds, which can create rough seas. The average water temperature ranges from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F) throughout the year.

Economic Importance

The Gulf of Thailand is a major source of income for the surrounding countries, particularly through fishing and tourism. The fishing industry is a vital source of livelihood for many people living along the coast, providing food and employment. The Gulf's beautiful beaches, islands, and clear waters attract millions of tourists each year, contributing significantly to the economies of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Environmental Concerns

The Gulf of Thailand faces several environmental challenges, including pollution, overfishing, and climate change. Pollution from industrial and agricultural runoff, as well as sewage, has degraded water quality in many areas. Overfishing has depleted fish stocks, threatening the sustainability of the fishing industry. Climate change is leading to rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and more frequent and intense storms, all of which pose significant risks to the Gulf's ecosystems and coastal communities.