Tuesday October 8, 2024
The Phnom Penh Post —
The Prek Tnaot fishing community in Kampot province’s Bokor town is gaining attention for its conservation endeavours, which have significantly enhanced marine biodiversity, particularly the populations of dolphins and dugongs.
Prime Minister Hun Manet shared a video of the marine mammals on his social media noting, “Through these successful conservation efforts, we can frequently see the presence of these diverse species on display to tourists during their visits to the community.”
The community covers 1,168 hectares and serves as a protected area for mangroves, safeguarding them from deforestation and encroachment. It is also a site for further mangrove planting and plays a crucial role in conserving marine biodiversity, including seagrass and rare species such as pink dolphins (Indo-Pacific humpback/Sousa chinensis), dugongs, seahorses and sea turtles, according to the prime minister’s post.
Mao Choch, a committee member of the community, reported that the area is home to around 15 humback dolphins, along with other species.