The marine economy is the leading sector of Phú Quý Island, with strong investment in fishing, aquaculture, processing, and marine resource protection. The surrounding waters are rich in seafood, especially squid, crab, various reef fish, and most notably mackerel, which has high economic value and large reserves.
Phú Quý Marine Protected Area – A Sanctuary of Biodiversity
Covering 18,980 hectares (including 16,680 ha of sea and 2,300 ha of land), the Phú Quý Marine Protected Area features an impressive array of ecosystems:
- 70 terrestrial plant species
- 72 species of seaweed and marine algae
- 134 species of hard coral
- 15 mollusk species
Offshore, a large coral field stretches across a flat reef up to 600 meters wide, forming a natural lagoon covered by lush seagrass beds.
Diverse and Abundant Marine Life
Phú Quý is home to a rich variety of marine creatures:
- Shellfish and ornamental species: cone snails, marble snails, turban shells, cowries… often used in high-value handicrafts
- Crustaceans: lobsters, moon crabs, and the famous imperial crab (cua huỳnh đế) — a sought-after delicacy
- Echinoderms: starfish, sea urchins, and numerous species of sea cucumbers such as black, white, sand, and long sea cucumbers
Sea cucumbers, once considered a premium “sea delicacy,” are especially abundant around late September when the waters become crystal clear.
A Vast Fishing Ground
The main fishing area lies to the East–Southeast of the island, known for its abundance of large pelagic fish: grouper, red snapper, and many varieties of squid. Mackerel, however, remains the island’s most prized and economically significant catch.
Marine Flora – Valuable Natural Resources
Phú Quý’s marine flora includes many precious seaweeds:
- Sargassum (rong mơ), sea moss, and various edible algae
- Green seaweed and golden thread seaweed, which grow naturally on rocky shores and coral reefs
These nutrient-rich seaweeds are used to make jelly, soups, and traditional herbal remedies. Harvest season runs from April to August (lunar calendar), and the collection work is traditionally done by women on the island.
Coral Reefs – The Living Jewel of Phú Quý
Beneath the surface lies an extensive coral world:
- Hard corals near the shore
- Soft corals, fan corals, blue and red corals farther out
Young corals often form shapes resembling tree branches or antlers. Over decades, they cluster and grow into large formations, eventually rising above sea level to shape coral islets.
Natural Advantages – A Strong Foundation for Tourism and the Blue Economy
Blessed with beautiful landscapes, mild weather, pristine beaches, coral reefs, volcanic rock formations, and rich marine life, Phú Quý offers unforgettable experiences for nature-loving travelers:
- Snorkeling and exploring coral reefs
- Visiting floating aquaculture farms
- Going offshore fishing with local fishermen
- Enjoying fresh, high-quality seafood right on the island
With its strategic geographical position, diverse ecosystems, and abundant resources, Phú Quý is well-equipped to develop both marine tourism and the blue economy—while contributing to national defense and safeguarding Vietnam’s maritime sovereignty.
