‘We found 700 species’: Incredible variety of wildlife found in Cambodian mangroves

A recent biodiversity survey conducted in a mangrove forest has revealed a remarkable diversity of wildlife inhabiting these vital yet threatened habitats. The study, carried out in the Peam Krasop sanctuary and the adjacent Koh Kapik Ramsar reserve in Cambodia, identified hundreds of species ranging from bats and birds to fish and insects.

Residents recorded during the survey included hairy-nosed otters, smooth-coated otters, large-spotted civets, long-tailed macaques, fishing cats, and various bat species. The abundance of wildlife observed has astonished biologists.

Stefanie Rog, the leader of the survey team, told the Guardian, "We discovered 700 distinct species in these mangrove forests, but we believe we have barely begun to explore the biodiversity." This statement was made in conjunction with the team's report, which was published on Sunday (April 14).

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Why are mangrove forests essential?

Mangrove forests are narrow strips of dense trees found along tropical and subtropical coastlines. They're vital because these trees can grow in salty water, unlike most plants. Sadly, about 40 per centof mangroves have been lost due to cutting them down for resorts or farms.

However, they're crucial for protecting coasts, providing homes for many animals, and supporting fishing. The study found that mangroves are breeding grounds for fish like barracudas and groupers, important for both locals and commercial fishing. They also shield against tsunamis and store carbon efficiently, helping fight climate change.

In the Cambodian mangroves, one interesting species found is the fishing cat, Prionailurus viverrinus. It's a bit larger than a regular house cat, with a sturdy body and short legs.

Unlike most cats, it enjoys swimming. Its front paws are partly webbed, and it has claws that help it catch fish and rats, its main prey. It hunts by hiding among the mangrove roots and stalking its targets.

In some older parts of the mangrove forest, camera traps captured photos of the hairy-nosed otter, a very rare animal. The Lutra sumatrana uses hairs around its nose to find its prey, which includes crustaceans, mollusks, and other small creatures.

The hairy-nosed otter, the rarest otter in Asia, is on the brink of extinction.

The study, backed by the Fishing Cat Ecological Enterprise, found 74 fish species and 150 bird species in the mangrove waters. Among the birds, 15 are considered near-threatened or endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list.

(With inputs from agencies)