Many species with conservation value recorded on coastal islands of Vietnam
Animal species (mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians) play an important ecological role in the ecosystems of Vietnam's coastal islands, and are typical indicator species when assessing change. species composition structure, as well as the number of species and endemic species if there are certain changes in habitat. However, research on the fauna of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians on our country's coastal islands is still limited and there has been no overall assessment.
In order to contribute to identifying the diversity of species composition and special endemic species on Vietnam's coastal islands, scientists surveyed three representative islands: Cat Ba Island (Hai Phong - North), Cu Lao Cham Island (Quang Nam - Central region) and Phu Quoc Island (Kien Giang - Southern region), and combined additional investigation of Con Dao (Ba Ria-Vung Tau), Hon Nghe (Kien Giang), Hon Khoai (Kien Giang). The results recorded 95 mammal species belonging to 21 families and 7 orders; 236 bird species belonging to 57 families and 19 orders; 105 species of reptiles belong to 21 families, 42 species of frogs belong to 6 families, 2 orders. In the mammal group, Bats and Rodents dominate, recording the most species, while Passerines and Rotters dominate and record the most species in the bird group. In the reptile group, the official Water Snake family and Gecko family dominate, while the Tree Frog family and Gourd family are dominant and have the most recorded species in the frog group.
Chairman Dr. Nguyen Truong Son and the research team collected samples
Among the three main survey areas, Cat Ba National Park and Phu Quoc National Park are recorded to have the most diversity in the number and composition of mammals, birds and frogs. Con Dao National Park is recognized as having the most diversity in the number and composition of reptile species. Con Dao National Park, Cat Ba National Park and Phu Quoc National Park have a more similar level, forming a group, while Cu Lao Cham Island is a separate group. The results of molecular biology analysis have evaluated the genetic relationship between the island and the mainland on a number of selected species: including Tupaia belangeri, Red Squirrel (Callosciurus finlaysonii) and announced a new subspecies of Squirrel. Callosciurus finlaysonii honghensis (Callosciurus finlaysonii honghensis).
The research team has built a sample set for research work, including 45 specimens of 25 species of small mammals and 20 species of reptiles and frogs. At the same time, we have identified factors affecting animal species such as habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation, and predicted changes in the distribution of a number of endemic, endangered, precious and rare species. according to the climate change scenario in Vietnam. From there, propose solutions to manage and conserve mammals, birds, reptiles and frogs on some coastal islands suitable to local conditions.
Dr. Nguyen Truong Son shared that, based on the combination of traditional and modern research methods, the Mission has contributed to solving current urgent requirements in conservation research for mammals, birds, reptiles and animals. Research on animal species on islands helps evaluate the origin, biodiversity value , and endemism of species combined with strategic planning and the development of biodiversity conservation plans and orientations. for the future development of sustainable ecotourism in Vietnam's coastal islands.
The topic was graded A by the Acceptance Council of Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology.
Translated by Quoc Khanh
Link to Vietnamese version