Preserving biodiversity in Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex

rang An is a mysterious land which is not much affected by humans' activities. Formed by the tectonic plates, the area is unique as it had  been invaded by the sea and changed several times and now becomes mainland. It has a variety of classical karst cones and hills and a network of enclosed depressions connected by an intricate system of subterranean waterways. 

The development of Hoa Lu special-use forest helps connect these mountain ranges and valleys in an vast area of over 10,000 hectares. This brings about a rich and diverse ecosystem, including rare plants and animals.

To date, Trang An has had 577 species of plants, including dozens of precious plants recorded in the Red Book of Vietnam like Herba Aristolochiae Mollissimae, Diospyros decandra, Drynaria fortunei, and Stemona kerrii Craib.

Besides, it is home to 200 species of animals, of which many species are listed in Vietnam's Red Book. There are 63 species of mammals, 63 species of birds, and 45 species of reptiles living here.

The aquatic ecosystem includes more than 30 zooplankton species, 40 zoobenthic species and especially striped-neck turtles which have been protected strictly.

With its special geological location, plus with the combination of many species of plants and animals, Trang An is a convergence of animals and plants, thus create a unique and typical limestone ecosystem in Vietnam.

Therefore, in the recent times, Ninh Binh province, specifically Trang An management board, Hoa Lu special use forest management board, Xuan Truong Construction Company, local authorities and people have done their utmost to protect biodiversity values of Trang An.

Hoang Thi Huong, deputy head of the Trang An management board, said in the past time, it has closely worked with scientists to investigate places of high biodiversity and typical ecosystem in order to zone off for  better management and protection.

Some rare plants and animals have been multiplied in a bid to prevent them from extinction.

At the same time, the board has regularly organised meetings to provide and disseminate knowledge about rare animals and plants in Trang An to local people, boatmen, and others working in the area so they would have a suitable ways to protect them if they see them. 

Several months ago, three Delacour's langurs were released back into nature inside Trang An with an attempt to enrich biodiversity there.

The forest conversation work has also been strengthened. Any violation is strictly be punished.

Vu Thanh Chung, a forest ranger in the Trang An area, said: "Trang An covers a vast area including mountains, valleys, underground rivers, and residential areas. So, we pay heed to improving local people's awareness of forest protection and encouraging their participation in forest protection. In the coming time, we will apply GPS technology in patrols to better protect the forest."

Biodiversity conservation at Trang An plays an important role as it helps build an unique landscape, geomorphology and culture of the heritage site. Therefore, in addition to the efforts of competent agencies, it is essential for the community to join hands in the conservation work.

Translated by Nguyen Thuy