THE effects of agricultural encroachment and infrastructure development on the domestic bat population remain understudied, and even basic knowledge about the various species of the flying mammal in Cambodia is lacking, according to a study presented at a seminar Friday.

The study featured the research of recent graduates of the Royal University of Phnom Penh's master's in biodiversity conservation programme.

Va Vuthy's report on bats identified three new species, bringing the national total up to 53.

He was among seven recent graduates to present research findings, which touched on topics from gibbons to crocodiles. One objective of the seminar, according to an RUPP press release, was to "promote collaboration among NGOs and public and private sectors for research in biodiversity conservation".