One of Asia´s mightiest rivers, the Mekong, has revealed some more of its secrets. Floating about on the river and venturing up its creeks in Vietnam recenty there were plenty of strange creatures to see. On muddy banks half-glimpsed things scattered and dashed into holes, crabs, insects, reptiles?
Recently biologists announced that they had identified 163 new species in the Mekong as it passes through Cambodia and Vietnam. This total included 100 new plants, 28 new fish, 18 new reptiles, 14 new amphibians, two mammals and a bird.
For decades, the research of naturalists was hampered or prevented by wars but now they are stepping up their investigations. The effects of defoliants, such as Agent Orange, which were widely sprayed to kill vegetation under which guerillas sheltered are still in evidence.
However, the bigger threat today is probably over-development, with roads, new towns and construction destroying habitat.
No doubt, however, the Mekong still contains surprises yet to be discovered.
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©Phillip Bruce 2009
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