The second China-Lao joint field investigation by researchers of Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG) and other institutions to investigate biodiversity in northern Lao PDR came to a successful end on October 29. The biodiversity survey was the second of its kind following the first biodiversity expedition in March and April. 

At the invitation of Biotechnology and Ecology Institute (BEI) of Lao PDR, the joint field expedition was accomplished by 9 researchers from XTBG, 3 from Kunming Institute of Zoology, and 2 from Xishuangbanna Nature Reserve Administration, and researchers from Lao partner institutions. 

The researchers collected about 1000 specimens of fish, 300 sheets of plant specimens, 69 DNA materials of animals, and 10,000 photos of animals by infra-red cameras.  

The researchers had a further and better understanding on birds, beasts, fish, angiosperms, ferns, and bryophytes. They set 62 infrared cameras in the dense forest. They also investigated 6 tropical forest samples of 50 m x 50m. 

The field survey was mainly conducted in national parks and national protected areas in Nam Ha National Bio-Diversity Park, Phou Hin Phee National Bio-Diversity Park, Phou Dean Din National Bio-Diversity Park, and Phouthaleng Protected Areas. 

Lao PDR is rich in biodiversity and is one of the most forested countries in Asia. Despite being a biodiversity rich country, Lao PDR suffers the lack of information base for biodiversity that greatly impairs the use and development of these resources. 

“We hope our field investigations may provide more data and contribute to regional biodiversity conservation, meanwhile contribute to resource utilization and solve some development problems for Lao DPR”, said Dr. SONG Liang of XTBG, head of the investigation team. 

Researchers collect specimen materials. 

A few special plant species in the investigation. 

Birds and animals observed. 

Team members pose a photo.