Among the most alarming findings was the proliferation of invasive fish species such as Oreochromis mossambicus (Mozambique tilapia) and Pterygoplichthys sp. (armored catfish). These species, not native to the area, are outcompeting local fish, threatening to disrupt the delicate ecological balance. The invasive Mozambique tilapia, in particular, was found in almost all surveyed locations, underscoring the urgency of intervention.

The limestone habitat, being unique and selective in supporting vegetation, also hosted some rare plant species. Among these were Acalypha kerrii, Kadsura heteroclita (VU – vulnerable species), and Cycas balansae (limestone cycad), precariously growing on cliffs. A few unusual species, potentially new discoveries for Vietnam’s flora, were also observed.

Highlighted plant species include:

• Bauhinia variegata (Orchid tree)
• Ficus heterophyllus (White fig)
• Streblus asper (Siamese rough bush)
• Desmos chinensis (Chinese desmos)
• Physalis angulata (Cutleaf groundcherry)
• Phyllanthus reticulatus (Black honey shrub)
• Barringtonia acutangula (Indian oak)
• Dendrocnide urentissima (Stinging nettle)
• Saururus chinensis (Asian lizard’s tail)
• Bischofia javanica (Bishop wood)
• Gardenia jasminoides (Cape jasmine)
• Uncaria tomentosa/guianensis (Cat’s claw vine)

The MoU establishes the foundation for collaboration between the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex Management Board and TMWC. The agreed projects will be carried out in compliance with legal regulations and with approval from relevant state authorities. The initiatives at Trang An aim to enhance biodiversity conservation, raise awareness among locals and tourists, and preserve the cultural and natural heritage of this World Heritage site.

According to the MoU, both parties will work together to identify research needs and conduct biodiversity investigations within the heritage site. They will also collaborate on educational and awareness-raising activities for the local community and visitors. Additionally, the MoU includes provisions for sharing collaborative efforts with other partners to avoid duplication of work and to foster multi-party cooperation when necessary.

This partnership marks a critical step towards preserving the rich biodiversity of Trang An, ensuring that this natural and cultural treasure continues to thrive for generations to come.

It’s the one of the few conference for students in nature conservation in Việt Nam, building a new generation of biodiversity researchers and conservationists, according to the director of WildAct, Nguyễn Trang.

All the organizations and individuals who contributed to the success of SCNC 2024, deserve heartfelt appreciation. Their enthusiastic participation and support helped creating a remarkable event that bridged generations and strengthened the conservation community in Vietnam.

It showed hopeful signs of a younger generation of conservationists wanting to work for the country’s biodiversity protection and conservation sector.

Several threats imperil the survival of the Indochinese serow in Vietnam. Hunting activities, although not directly targeting the serow, pose a significant risk. Ground surveys revealed the presence of traps, indicating ongoing hunting pressure that affects local fauna, including the serow.

Human activities such as waste disposal, agriculture, and burning further degrade their habitat. The presence of large numbers of goats, which compete with serows for resources and damage vegetation, exacerbates the situation.

One of the most concerning threats is quarrying. Our study found that quarrying activities have already affected approximately 6% of the Yen Mo Limestone Complex, particularly along its southern border in Thanh Hoa Province. The relentless expansion of quarrying observed in the neighboring Kim Bang Limestone Complex, where 25% of the area has been excavated, foreshadows a dire future for the Yen Mo Limestone Complex if left unchecked.