Central Quang Nam province is compiling scientific files of Cham islands to submit to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) for recognition as a world’s biosphere reserve.

Situated 19 km east of ancient Hoi An town, Cham island (Cu Lao Cham) comprises eight islands scattered on a total sea area of 15sq.km.

The island is rich in aquatic resources, with 165ha of coral and 500ha of sea weeds. The waters around Cu Lao Cham is home to 135 species of coral, four species of tiger shrimp and 84 species of mollusc, many of which are listed in Viet Nam’s and the world’s Red Book of endangered species.

Scientists from the Medicinal Substances Institute and the Ha Noi University of Natural Sciences also found many kinds of precious medicinal plants on the islands.

The island was recognised as a national scenic site last year.

Source: VNA