STUDY INVASIVE ALIEN SPECIES IN THAI THUY WETLAND NATURE RESERVE

Thai Thuy Wetland Nature Reserve, Hung Yen province protects one of northern Viet Nam’s most important mangrove and coastal wetland landscapes. Covering 6,560 hectares, the Reserve provides vital natural protection for coastal communities by reducing wave and storm impacts, limiting shoreline erosion, and stabilising the coast. It also supports critical wintering and stopover habitats for migratory waterbirds, including several species of global conservation concern. Despite their ecological importance, mangrove and coastal wetland ecosystems are highly sensitive to environmental disturbance. They are increasingly affected by climate change, intensive aquaculture, and the spread of invasive alien species. Understanding the occurrence, distribution, and ecological impacts of these species is therefore essential for developing appropriate control measures and safeguarding the ecological integrity and ecosystem services of the Reserve.

Figure 1: Mangrove forest at Thai Thuy Wetland Nature Reserve

Between April and July 2026, Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD), in partnership with the Hung Yen Forest Protection Department and the forest owner, conducted a series of field surveys across the Reserve. The surveys documented alien species currently present, mapped their distribution across different habitats, and assessed the extent of their impacts on mangrove forests and other coastal wetland ecosystems.

Figure 2: Invasive alien species at the Reserve: Water hyacinth

The assessment recorded a range of alien animal species, including mozambique tilapia and largemouth bass, as well as alien plants such as lantana, sensitive plants, water hyacinth, and creeping daisy. Based on their distribution and observed impacts, priority species were identified for further management and control. Building on these findings, CCD will continue working with relevant stakeholders to develop coordinated measures for the prevention, early detection, management, and control of invasive alien species.

Figure 3: Invasive alien species at the Reserve: Sensitive plant

This initiative reflects CCD’s continued commitment to providing technical support for biodiversity conservation in protected areas and national parks. It also contributes to broader efforts to reconcile biodiversity conservation with sustainable development, strengthen climate resilience, and support more sustainable livelihoods for local communities.