Environment Analysis of Aquatic Animals Release According to Buddhist Beliefs by Applying Geographic Information System (Gis)

Abstract

          This dissertation aimed to: 1) study and explore the environment for the release of aquatic animals according to the beliefs of Thai Buddhists, 2) create a map for the release of aquatic animals according to the beliefs of Thai Buddhists by applying Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and 3) analyze the environment for the release of aquatic animals according to the beliefs of Thai Buddhists based on suitable environmental conditions. This was exploratory research that included field surveys to assess the physical environmental context of the sanctuary areas (temples) suitable for the release of aquatic animals.
          The study found that through the survey and analysis of the environment, there are 37 suitable sanctuary areas (temples) for the release of aquatic animals in the lower Tha Chin River Basin, including Mueang Nakhon Pathom District, Nakhon Chai Si District, and Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom Province. There are 12 types of aquatic animals suitable for release for making merit according to Buddhist beliefs, categorized into three groups as follows:
          1. Main River Group: 15 locations including Wat Klang Bang Kaeo, Wat Mai Suphadit Tharam, Wat Thaiyawat (Tha Mon), Wat Hom Kret, Wat Song Khanong, Wat Don Wai, Wat Rai Khing, Wat Sanphet, Wat Dechanuson, Wat Bang Chang Nuea, Wat Bang Chang Tai, Wat Choeng Len, Wat Thian Dat, Wat Om Yai, Wat Kalyanitrong Tham. Suitable for the release of Java barb and striped catfish.
          2. Branch Canals with Wet and Muddy Areas, Covered with Aquatic Plants : 13 locations including Wat Rang Pla Mo, Wat Sra Kathiem, Wat Nong Suea, Wat Wang Yen, Wat Lat Pla Khao, Wat Don Khnak, Wat Huai Tako, Wat Noi Charoensuk, Wat Sing, Wat Bang Kaeo, Wat Sai, Wat Sawang Arom, Wat Sam Phran. Suitable for the release of Snakehead fish, Climbing perch, Goby fish, Eels, Apple snails, Giant pond snails, Turtles, Softshell turtles, Frogs.
         3. Branch Canals without Wet and Muddy Areas, Little to No Aquatic Plants: 9 locations including Wat Lat Ya Preak, Wat Nong Din Daeng, Wat Bang Khaem, Wat Ko Wang Sai, Wat Don Yai Hom, Wat Tha Krachap, Wat Prida Ram (Wat Yai Som), Wat Wang Nam Khao, Wat Tha Phut. Suitable for the release of Snakehead fish, Climbing perch, and Goby fish.