In an incredible survey done in Cambodia, biologists have found that the Cambodian mangroves are home to some 700 species of wildlife. The recent biodiversity survey was conducted in the Peam Krasop sanctuary which is situated near Koh Kapik Ramsar reserve in Cambodia.
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It is here that over hundreds of species of bats, birds, fish and insects were found in these mangroves. This mangrove forest is home to a wide diversity of threatened wildlife! Other prominent residents identified during the survey are hairy-nosed otters, smooth-coated otters, large-spotted civet, long-tailed macaques, fishing cats, and various bat species.
This discovery has left biologists stunned! The team lead of the survey, Stefanie Rog said, “We discovered 700 distinct species in these mangrove forests, but we believe we have barely begun to explore the biodiversity.”
Understanding the importance of mangrove forests
So those who don’t know, mangroves are a group of trees and shrubs found in the coastal intertidal zone. These forests, comprising trees along tropical and subtropical coastlines, play an important role because of their ability to flourish in saline environments. However, unfortunately about 40 percent of mangroves are lost because of deforestation.
But those that are still there are home to myriad species. The survey also revealed mangroves as important breeding sites for fish such as barracudas and groupers. These varieties are crucial for both local sustenance and commercial fishing. These also act as barriers against tsunamis and efficiently sequester carbon, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
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One of the prime discoveries made inside the Cambodian mangroves was the fishing cat, Prionailurus viverrinus. These are a little larger than an average house cat and feature a robust physique and short legs.
Unlike most cats, the fishing cat is an expert swimmer. These have partially webbed front paws and special claws for catching fish and rodents. Its hunting strategy involves lurking among the mangrove roots and pounding upon its targets.
The study which is supported by the Fishing Cat Ecological Enterprise also found 74 fish species and 150 bird species within the mangrove waters. Among these, 15 are classified as near-threatened or endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
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Cameras installed in the mangrove forest captured pictures of the elusive hairy-nosed otter, a highly endangered species. Lutra sumatrana relies on sensitive nose hairs to locate its prey, such as crustaceans and mollusks, among others. The hairy-nosed otter is among the rarest otters in Asia.
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