Received: Apr 01, 2026 / Accepted: May 20, 2026 / Published: Jun 30, 2026
This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of the species composition and distribution of coral reef fish populations on the seamounts of Tho Chu Archipelago. Surveys were conducted during the Northeast monsoon (December 2023) and Southwest monsoon (July–August 2024) seasons across 24 transects spanning depths 11-30m. A total of 83 species from 45 genera, 23 families, and 13 orders were recorded. The most abundant families were damselfishes (Pomacentridae) with 19 species and wrasses (Labridae) with 15 species. Species richness was the highest in the shallow reef crest (11-15m; 70 species) and declined markedly toward the deeper reef foot (26-28m; 18 species). The overall diversity was high (H’ = 4.93), with a relatively even species distribution (J’ = 0.77). Mean fish density reached about 250 individuals per 500 m2, dominated by small-size fishes (< 10cm in total length). The Bray-Curtis similarity index revealed distinct depth-related groupings, with strong overlap in mid-depth communities. The findings provide baseline ecological data on species composition, density, and depth-related distribution patterns, serving as scientific evidence for marine conservation planning and sustainable fisheries management in offshore waters.