Bio-diversity

Minh Chau is an island in Bai Tu Long Bay, where there are typical marine ecosystems inhabiting many highly economic value and endangered species. It is one of the poorest communes of Van Don District, Quang Ninh Province. The Commune is located within the core zone of Bai Tu Long National Park. Peanut worm Sipunculus nudus is a species belonging to a phylum of nonsegmented coelomate worms, Sipuncula, dwelling in sandy tidal flats. Its Vietnamese name`sa sung` originates from Chinese word`sha chong` meaning sandy worm. In Vietnam, peanut worm are found along the westen coast of Tonkin Gulf, from Minh Chau Quan Lan to the border of China. But its high biomass and best quality is only found in Minh Chau area. In the westen coast of Quan Lan island, there are about 500 ha of sandy tidal flat where peanut worm is naturally distributed. As its high nutrient value, it is widely consumed in both domestic and international markets. It is the key source of income for community and plays an important part in the local economy. Peanut worm is sold in dried or fresh forms. The annual production in the commune is about 4-5 dried tons which can be sold at the price of 30-50 USD/kg.However, in recent years, peanut worm is overexploited to respond to the growing demand of the markets. In addition to the problem of overexploitation, other destructive fishing gears like poisoning, electricity nets, etc. significantly contributes to the decline in production. The total production has rapidly reduced from 12 dried tons in 1990s to 4.5 tons in 2004. The exploited size of peanut worm is also reduced from 11cm to 7cm in 1990s and 2004 respectively.The project VN/04/009 aims to contribute to solving the problem of overexploitation of peanut worm in Minh Chau Commune. Its primary purpose is to develop a community model which promotes the role and participation of the commune authority and community in managing the resources of peanut worm. The project gives priority to building technical capacity in the management of the resources of peanut worm. It will test a model aiming to ease the pressure on exploiting peanut worm resources through sustainable exploitation of peanut worm and generating alternative incomes for the community. One of the key activities is raising awareness and enhancing understanding and knowledge on marine conservation and sustainable use of marine resources of the local authority and community.

Vietnam