A comprehensive biodiversity survey conducted in the Samlot Multiple Use Area (MUA), spanning 60,000 hectares across Battambang and Pailin provinces, has revealed a diverse range of species, underscoring the ecological importance of the region.
The findings were shared during a workshop hosted by Fauna & Flora, the Maddox Foundation – founded by Angelia Jolie – and the Ministry of Environment, with participation from provincial administrations. The event aimed to raise awareness about Samlot’s biodiversity and reinforce commitments to conservation efforts in Cambodia, according to a December 10 joint press release.
The release noted that a variety of invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals were documented, including several threatened species such as the Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica), Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) and dhole (Cuon alpinus).
Environment minister Eang Sophalleth highlighted the significance of the findings within the framework of the ministry’s Circular Strategy on Environment, which focuses on “clean, green and sustainable” initiatives.
“We now have a greater understanding of Samlot's biodiversity value, which highlights the unique natural heritage of the area and underscores our collective responsibility to protect it. With the collaboration of our dedicated partners, we will ensure that Cambodia's biodiversity flourishes for future generations,” he was quoted as saying in the release.
The survey, conducted from October 2021 to June 2022, targeted various taxonomic groups and revealed important findings. A significant diversity of bat species was documented, contributing valuable data to the country’s bat conservation efforts.
In herpetology, researchers identified 51 species, including 21 amphibians, six agamids, four geckos, five skinks, 14 snakes and a turtle. Ornithological surveys recorded 142 bird species from 48 families, highlighting the region’s importance for avian biodiversity.
The survey, conducted at the Samlot MUA from October 2021 to June 2022, documented 44 species, including 28 mammals and 15 birds, with 12 of these species classified as threatened on the IUCN Red List, including one critically endangered, three endangered and eight vulnerable species. Environment ministry
The orchid survey uncovered over 50 species from 29 genera, alongside seven additional plant species of interest from five other families.
Remarkably, two species were recorded for the first time in Cambodia: a small colony of the elephant ear plant (Pycnospatha arietina), a rare aroid, and another notable aroid, Amorphophallus tenuistylis, often referred to as the dwarf voodoo lily.
Camera traps detected 44 species, including 28 mammals and 15 birds, with 12 of these species classified as threatened on the IUCN Red List, including one critically endangered, three endangered and eight vulnerable species.
According to the release, the findings underscore Samlot’s ecological significance as a sanctuary for rare and endangered plants and wildlife. Fauna & Flora country director Pablo Sinovas emphasised the importance of the area.
“This survey's findings underscore the rich biodiversity within Samlot, a vital component of Cambodia's protected area network. Its location along the Thai border enhances its significance for transboundary ecological connectivity,” he said.
Jolie, renowned for her contributions to the country’s cultural heritage and environmental conservation efforts, remarked, “Cambodia's rich biodiversity is a testament to the resilience of nature and the importance of safeguarding our ecosystems. The discovery of new plant species in this report underscores the critical role Cambodia plays in the global effort to protect wildlife.”
As a crucial repository of biodiversity, Samlot MUA provides valuable insights for shaping sustainable policy and resource management strategies. The survey, funded by the Maddox Foundation, serves as a vital resource in the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to protect and preserve its unique natural heritage, according to the release.
