Assessment of the tropic status of the core zone of Xuan Dai bay, Phu Yen by Assets index models

Abstract

     Xuan Dai Bay is an ecologically diverse region with high potential for aquaculture and fishing,bringing significant benefits to local people. However, the current development of over-aquaculturehas enriched the water in the bay, and has caused lobster deaths. In this study, the multi-parameterAssessment of Estuarine Trophic Status (ASSETS) index model has been applied to Xuan Dai Bay todetermine the trophic state, and the natural and anthropogenic processes involved in theeutrophication. According to the research results, Xuan Dai Bay was classified with highinfluencing factors, with high eutrophic conditions, and with a future outlook of no change. Theresult of synthesizing component indicators shows that the tropic status of the core area of XuanDai Bay is at a bad level. The research results contribute to determine the main factors in aeutrophication management program for the coastal bays, helping to plan the uses of land andwater which are suitable to the capacity of the water body.