Catch, tag and release programme for Luciocyprinus striolatus

In 2023-2025 (Phase 1), project activities focused on priority areas in the Nam Theun and Nam Noi Rivers for research and conservation actions. In 2026-2028 (Phase 2), the project will expand to include Nam Xot and Nam Mon.

With the financial support of Association Anoulak, FISHBIO conducted two field trips in 2025:

The first field trip took place from April 22 to May 1, 2025:

• The surveys successfully documented Wolf Barb population in both the Nam Theun and Nam Noi River basins.

• Eleven Wolf Barb specimens and one Blue Mahseer (Neolissochilus stracheyi) were captured, tagged, and released.

• Community engagement activities involved stakeholders from four villages, laying a strong foundation for future participatory FCZ commitments.

• The study identified 15 deep pools in the Nam Theun River and 6 in the Nam Noi River as potential FCZ sites.

• Strong local participation and local ecological knowledge provide encouraging indications of the potential effectiveness of species conservation, monitoring, and sustainable fisheries management.

The second field mission took place from 15 to 26 December, 2025: The field trip allowed for the successful transition of the Wolfbarb conservation project from preliminary mapping and species assessments to the establishment of community-led management and the validation of critical life-cycle habitats:

Community Governance & Legal Framework

• Stakeholder engagement: Formal consultations were conducted with 68 participants from two villages in the Nam Theun and Nam Noi Basins to secure community consent and finalise site selections.

• Strategic site selection: Based on habitat quality and adult population density, three sites in the Nam Theun River (Vang Ya Mae, Vang Kuem, and Vang Ya Oi) and one site in the Nam Noi River (Vang Phaloon FCZ at Ban Tern Village) were designated as high-priority locations for Fish Conservation Zones (FCZs).

• Regulatory enforcement: Regulations for the FCZ were drafted with the communities. These are pending official approval from the district authorities (planned in 2026)

Technical Discovery & Biological Integrity

• Spawning habitat identification: A landmark discovery was made at a rocky confluence in the Nam Theun River; the presence of milting males confirms this site as an active spawning ground for the species and likely an essential habitat for juvenile recruitment.

• Population demographics: To date, 34 individual fish have been tagged. An analysis of Length-Weight Relationship (LWR) yielded a growth coefficient of 2.91, confirming that the population maintains a healthy body condition despite environmental pressures.

• Adaptive management: In the Nam Noi River, high interspecific competition from Hampala macrolepidota was recorded. Consequently, the Vang Somphad site was deemed unsuitable for specialized Wolfbarb protection and will instead be managed for local food security.

Three critical deep-pool FCZs and one identified spawning area in the Nam Theun River basin

Vang Phaloon Fish Conservation Zone (FCZ) at Terng Village

Community consultation for FCZ priority site Selection and draft regulations

Sex identification of L. striolatus

Background rationale for this project: Luciocyprinus striolatus (Local names: Pa Khouan-Zai, Pa Kang, Pa Sak) is a species of endangered cyprinid native to parts of Laos and China. The species is believed to be already extinct from China, which make Laos the only country to protect the species. The distribution of the species in Laos remains little known, as well as the threats it faces where the species has been confirmed. There are currently only two locations in the country where the species has been recorded: Nam Pak river, a tributary of the Nam Ou river in Oudomxay Province, northern Laos; and Nam Kading/ Nam Theun river, a tributary of the Mekong river, in Khammouan Province, central Laos. Confirming the confirmation status of the species in Laos is crucial to inform conservation planning for the species.

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In 2025, we officially closed our Memorandum of Understanding with Nakai-Nam Theun National Park.

Since the signing of the MoU in 2019 and our pre-2019 actions in Nakai-Nam Theun National Park, the Association Anoulak has worked closely with Nakai-Nam Theun National Park to implement integrated programs in biodiversity research, anti-poaching efforts, community development, and conservation education.

Key Achievements Over > 7-Year Partnership with the Nakai-Nam Theun National Park

1. Biodiversity Research and Monitoring – Association Anoulak has led and supported a wide array of scientific research projects, contributing valuable data and insights into the park’s rich biodiversity. These include: primate research on red-shanked doucs and gibbons; Gibbon distribution and population monitoring; Botanical surveys across diverse habitats; Otter distribution surveys; A pioneering arboreal camera-trap program; Large-scale systematic ground camera-trap surveys to monitor mammals and ground birds; Research and conservation of the Large-antlered muntjac, a highly threatened endemic species; Environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys; Elephant population monitoring and research; Research and conservation activities for the Endangered Worlf Barb (Luciocyprinus striolatus)

2. Anti-Poaching Patrol Support – In coordination with NNT NP, the association supported regular forest patrols aimed at reducing illegal hunting and wildlife trade, helping to safeguard the park’s most threatened species.

3. Conservation Education and Awareness – Awareness-raising efforts reached various levels of society through: Village-level educational activities and the creation and dissemination of conservation education resources and books

4. Community Livelihood Development – To support the resilience of local communities living in and around the park, Association Anoulak initiated sustainable income-generating activities, notably the development of handicraft value chains and marketing strategies, empowering villagers—especially women—to gain economic independence through traditional skills.

5. Capacity Building and Training – The project invested significantly in building the technical skills of local partners, including NNT NP staff, researchers, and community members involved in conservation programs.

6. Technical Advising to Park Authorities – Association Anoulak played an advisory role to the Nakai-Nam Theun National Park Authority, particularly in the design and implementation of biodiversity research and monitoring protocols.

Looking Ahead

As the MoU chapter with Nakai-Nam Theun National Park comes to a close, Association Anoulak remains fully committed to its mission in Lao PDR. The organization’s future focus will center on strengthening the capacity of Lao civil society in the conservation sector through three core programs:

• Youth Engagement – Inspiring and empowering young Lao individuals to explore and pursue careers in nature conservation through educational outreach, mentorship, and exposure to field-based opportunities.
• Professional Development for Lao Conservationists – Enhancing the skills and knowledge of Lao professionals working in environmental protection and biodiversity through tailored training such as the Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation
• Scholarships for Lao Students – Supporting Lao students through academic scholarships to undertake higher education in the fields of environmental science, biodiversity conservation, and related disciplines, fostering the next generation of national conservation leaders.

Through these initiatives, Association Anoulak will continue to invest in building a resilient, skilled, and passionate Lao conservation community to ensure long-term stewardship of the country’s natural heritage.

We hope that you will continue to support and follow us in these new endeavors. Here is to a successful 2026 year!

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As our association moves towards a capacity-building-only direction, we are proud to share this programme, which we hope will encourage the new generation in Laos to pursue careers in the nature conservation sector.

Indeed, this year, 2025, our association began to shift towards a new direction — moving from directly conducting conservation work ourselves to empowering civil society to take the lead in protecting the environment. Over the years, our anti-poaching patrols and research have yielded significant results, but we recognize that lasting conservation relies on strong local leadership and stewardship. That’s why we’re now focusing on education and capacity building (such as our Lao Youth on a Mission for Nature Conservation programme and our online course on the Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation, as well as scholarships for students) to help equip Lao people with the knowledge, skills, and tools they need to drive conservation efforts themselves.

ENGLISH VERSION:

LAO VERSION:

This year 2025, the programme was supported by Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, Zoological and Botanical Garden Wilhelma, La Citadelle de Besancon, Stitching Wildlife, Parc de Cleres, Parc Animalier Barben. We are very grateful for their support.

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To address this challenge, in 2024 we launched Lao Youth on a Mission for Nature Conservation—a training course designed to inspire a new generation of Lao conservationists. Targeting youth aged 20 to 35, our aim is to encourage and equip them to pursue meaningful careers protecting the country’s extraordinary biodiversity.

In 2025, we implemented the second edition of the programme, in partnership with Econox Laos, building on the successes and lessons from the pilot year. The result was an even more impactful and inspiring experience for participants.

Lao Youth on a Mission for Nature Conservation: Cohort 2025 with Association Anoulak and EconoxLaos team

A diverse group united by passion

This year’s programme brought together 26 participants from across Laos, representing universities, conservation NGOs, government agencies, and the private sector. The average participant age was 24 (15 females, 9 males, 2 undisclosed gender).

Learning, skills, and inspiration

The training combined technical conservation knowledge with practical skills and networking opportunities. Highlights included:

• Conservation knowledge – Species-specific conservation (e.g., Saola, elephants, wetlands), wildlife rescue, anti-trafficking work, and the role of technology in research.
• Practical skills – Project planning, leadership, community engagement, research methodologies, and conservation campaigning.
• Career insights – Clearer understanding of conservation pathways beyond science, including education, communications, and policy roles.
• Inspiration – Motivational talks and direct interactions with leading conservation organisations such as Saola Foundation, WCS, WWF, IUCN, LCTW, ECC, and Free the Bears.

Measurable impact

The evaluation results speak for themselves:

• 96% reported learning new things.
• Over 85% agreed or strongly agreed with all tested learning outcomes.
• 100% would recommend the programme to others.
• At least 85% felt better prepared for a conservation career, and 77% expressed interest in volunteering or interning with participating organisations.
• 89% felt confident to contact organisations for opportunities following the training.

Participants described the programme as a turning point—helping them clarify career goals, boosting confidence, and showing that conservation needs people from many backgrounds, not only scientists.

One participant summed up the experience with this heartfelt reflection:

“If I could rate this program, it would be 1000/10 — and even that wouldn’t do justice to the level of excellence, care, and inspiration this program delivered.

From the very beginning, the professionalism, thoughtfulness, and seamless coordination were beyond impressive. Every single detail was intentional — from smooth logistics to perfectly timed sessions, and most of all, the powerful learning environment they created.

One thing I deeply appreciated was their commitment to sustainability. The waste management system was so well designed that, honestly, the only waste I personally produced during the workshop was a bit of tissue. There was zero single-use plastic, and yet everything was efficient, comfortable, and refreshing. It’s rare to see sustainability practiced so meaningfully in every corner of a program.

But above all, what made Econox and Anoulak so special was the people. The organizers, facilitators, and the entire team behind the scenes — you are some of the most inspiring, passionate, and visionary individuals I’ve ever had the honor of meeting.

Thank you for setting a new standard and showing us what thoughtful leadership truly looks like. Grateful beyond words 💚”

Beyond the classroom

The programme’s field visit to the Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife was among the most inspiring experiences, giving participants a firsthand look at wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. Structured networking sessions and panel discussions allowed them to connect directly with professionals, role models, and peers in the conservation community.

Building a conservation movement

By providing knowledge, skills, inspiration, and professional connections, Lao Youth on a Mission for Nature Conservation is helping to build a stronger, more resilient generation of Lao conservation leaders. With continued support and collaboration, we can ensure more young Lao voices are at the forefront of protecting the country’s unique natural heritage.

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This programme was supported with funds to Association Anoulak from Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, Zoological and Botanical Garden Wilhelma, and additional unrestricted funds received from sponsors in 2025 (La Citadelle de Besancon; Stitching Wildlife; Parc de Cleres; Parc Animalier Barben).

Introduction to the Lao Youth on a Mission for Nature Conservation by Association Anoulak

Presentation from an alumnus from cohort 2024 to share her experience and journey, as part of Module 2 – Orientation, introduction to Youth On Mission and team building

Mr. Silisack SITHIPHONE delivering a workshop on Career Planning & Skill Mapping for Lao Conservationists Job Application & Team Building

Module 2: Career Planning & Skill Mapping for Lao Conservationists Job Application & Team Building

Module 3: Wildlife Research Techniques & Protected Area Management by WCS-Lao

Module 3: Wildlife Research Techniques & Protected Area Management by WCS-Lao

Module 4: Conservation: Expert Talk + Scenario Exercise by IUCN-Lao

Module 5: Endangered Species Conservation: The Case of the Saola by the Saola Foundation

Module 5: Endangered Species Conservation: The Case of the Saola by the Saola Foundation

In presence of the Saola Foundation team

Module 6: Research Methodologies and Academic Pathways by National University professor

Module 7: Elephant Conservation and Ethical Ecotourism by Elephant Conservation Center

Module 7: Elephant Conservation and Ethical Ecotourism by Elephant Conservation Center

Module 8: Wildlife Rescue and Anti-Trafficking Work by Free the Bears-Lao

Module 8: Wildlife Rescue and Anti-Trafficking Work by Free the Bears-Lao

Module 9: Conservation Campaigning and Public Engagement by WWF-Lao

Module 9: Conservation Campaigning and Public Engagement by WWF-Lao

Module 10: Leadership and Project Planning for Change by Katalyst & Partners

Module 10: Leadership and Project Planning for Change by Katalyst & Partners

Module 10: Leadership and Project Planning for Change by Katalyst & Partners

Module 11: Panel discussion: Building a Conservation Movement: How We Work, Why It Matters, and Where You Come In (with the participation of WCS, WWF, IUCN, Free The Bears, Elephant Conservation Center, The Saola Foundation)

Public event Module 11: Panel discussion: Building a Conservation Movement: How We Work, Why It Matters, and Where You Come In

Association Anoulak addressing the audience as part of the panel discussion

Module 11: Panel discussion: Building a Conservation Movement: How We Work, Why It Matters, and Where You Come In (with the participation of WCS, WWF, IUCN, Free The Bears, Elephant Conservation Center, The Saola Foundation)

Module 11: Panel discussion: Building a Conservation Movement: How We Work, Why It Matters, and Where You Come In (with the participation of WCS, WWF, IUCN, Free The Bears, Elephant Conservation Center, The Saola Foundation)

Module 12: Field Trip: Wildlife Rescue in Action at the Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife 

Module 12: Field Trip: Wildlife Rescue in Action at the Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife

Module 12: Field Trip: Wildlife Rescue in Action at the Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife

Participants taking part in hands-on exercises

Participants taking part in hands-on exercises

Participants taking part in hands-on exercises

Participants taking part in hands-on exercises

Participants taking part in hands-on exercises

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Organized by Association Anoulak in collaboration with Alcedo Conservation, the course was delivered over a three-week period, totaling five days of interactive sessions (4 hours per day). Catherine Payne (Alcedo Conservation) led the course as the main trainer, with expert coaching support from Camille Coudrat (Association Anoulak) and Lavernita Bingku from WWF-Malaysia.

Thanks to funding support from the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, the course was offered free of charge to participants in Lao PDR, part of a broader commitment by Association Anoulak to promote best practices and local leadership in biodiversity conservation.

What Did Participants Gain?

A post-course evaluation highlighted a range of transformative impacts:

🔹 Strategic Mindsets: Participants reported a shift from activity-based thinking to strategic, outcome-driven approaches. They emphasized that tools like the Theory of Change and Strategy Selection provided critical structure for effective project design, stakeholder communication, and long-term conservation success.

🔹 Confidence and Capability: Many practitioners noted increased confidence in using measurable and adaptive planning methods, helping them better align biodiversity goals with community needs and long-term sustainability.

🔹 Understanding Integration: A recurring takeaway was a greater appreciation for integrating human well-being with biodiversity outcomes — a core element of effective conservation.

Looking Ahead

The overwhelmingly positive feedback affirms the value of investing in local capacity for conservation planning. Association Anoulak aims to continue its collaboration with Alcedo Conservation to support emerging and early-career practitioners in Lao PDR.

As conservation challenges grow increasingly complex, empowering local leaders with the right frameworks, skills, and community support is more crucial than ever. This course marks a step forward in building a resilient and strategic conservation community in Laos — one that is ready to adapt, innovate, and lead.

2025 Action: Lao Conservation Standards Course for Senor & Junior Lao Practitioners

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As part of the scientific programme, we were pleased to present our research poster titled “The Distribution of White-Cheeked Gibbons (Nomascus siki and N. leucogenys) in Central Lao PDR.” The presentation attracted significant interest from fellow researchers, students, and practitioners working across Southeast Asia and beyond. Discussions sparked by the poster allowed us to exchange valuable insights about gibbon ecology, conservation challenges, and the importance of field-based data to inform national and regional conservation planning.

Among the many themes presented throughout the Congress, Camille—representing Association Anoulak—was particularly drawn to sessions exploring justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) in conservation. These critical conversations reflect a growing recognition across the sector: that effective, lasting conservation solutions must be inclusive and equitable, and must reflect the voices of those most connected to and affected by the natural world.

This thematic focus is especially relevant to Association Anoulak’s own strategic shift from field-based conservation work toward capacity building for Lao civil society and partnerships with Lao institutions. We believe that empowering local actors—especially youth, students, and conservation professionals—is the cornerstone for long-term, impactful conservation in Laos.

Participating in ICCB 2025 allowed us to reconnect with old partners, explore potential new collaborations, and gain fresh inspiration as we refine our programs to better align with values of equity, sustainability, and local leadership.

We are excited to carry these insights forward as we continue our mission to support biodiversity conservation through knowledge-sharing, community engagement, and institutional strengthening in Laos.

Have a look at the poster we presented:

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These videos (in Lao and English versions) showcase the inspiring work carried out by communities in the Thaiphaibanh village cluster—one of the three clusters within Nakai-Nam Theun National Park—where villagers are most dependent on natural resources for their daily livelihoods and are among the most vulnerable in terms of food security and income.

The three videos focus on the following themes:

• The Handicraft Value Chain

  A behind-the-scenes look at how local handicrafts are made and marketed, following the entire process from harvesting raw materials to the sale of finished products. The video highlights the creation of a sustainable village-level value chain that brings income to local households.

• Sustainable Harvesting and Traditional Techniques

  This video demonstrates how local artisans apply traditional, low-impact harvesting methods to gather forest materials. These practices are rooted in cultural knowledge and play a crucial role in conserving forest biodiversity.

• Restoration of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs)

  Highlighting the village-based restoration programs, this video shows how communities are actively planting and regenerating important NTFP species to ensure long-term sustainability of the raw materials used in their crafts.

Since 2020, this project has aimed to:

• Support local communities in developing sustainable and innovative income sources while preserving traditional craftsmanship and cultural identity;
• Reduce pressure on natural resources within Nakai-Nam Theun National Park to support biodiversity conservation.

At the core of our work is the promotion of sustainable use and management of native non-timber forest products. Through capacity-building, market access, and restoration activities, communities have developed stronger resilience and ownership over their livelihoods and natural resources.

We are pleased to share that the project has now reached a point where it can run independently. The crafters are officially registered as a handicraft group at the district level, and their activities are now sustained through income generated from product sales. Handicrafts are sold at the Nakai shop—a sales outlet we helped establish—and distributed across Laos through an online platform.

These videos not only document a successful conservation and community development model, but also celebrate the strength and creativity of the local people who are leading the way.

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Association Anoulak is a French non-profit organization dedicated to the long-term protection of biodiversity and the support of local communities through sustainable livelihood initiatives. Since the signing of the MoU in 2019, the organization has worked closely with Nakai-Nam Theun National Park to implement integrated programs in biodiversity research, anti-poaching efforts, community development, and conservation education.

Meeting co-chairs: Director of the Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office of Khammouan; Vice-governor of Nakai District; Director of Association Anoulak

Key Achievements Over the 7-Year Partnership

1. Biodiversity Research and Monitoring
Association Anoulak has led and supported a wide array of scientific research projects, contributing valuable data and insights into the park’s rich biodiversity. These include:

• Primate research on red-shanked doucs and gibbons
• Gibbon distribution and population monitoring
• Botanical surveys across diverse habitats
• Otter distribution surveys
• A pioneering arboreal camera-trap program
• Large-scale systematic ground camera-trap surveys to monitor mammals and ground birds
• Research and conservation of the Large-antlered muntjac, a highly threatened endemic species
• Environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys
• Elephant population monitoring and research
• Research and conservation activities for the Endangered Worlf Barb (Luciocyprinus striolatus)

2. Anti-Poaching Patrol Support
In coordination with NNT NP, the association supported regular forest patrols aimed at reducing illegal hunting and wildlife trade, helping to safeguard the park’s most threatened species.

3. Conservation Education and Awareness
Awareness-raising efforts reached various levels of society through:

• Village-level educational activities
• The creation and dissemination of conservation education resources and books

4. Community Livelihood Development
To support the resilience of local communities living in and around the park, Association Anoulak initiated sustainable income-generating activities, notably the development of handicraft value chains and marketing strategies, empowering villagers—especially women—to gain economic independence through traditional skills.

5. National and International Communication
Throughout the project, the organization maintained consistent communication with partners and the broader public via:

• Detailed progress reports, Annual Reports
• Media engagement via News posts and videos
• Scientific publications sharing findings with the global conservation community

6. Capacity Building and Training
The project invested significantly in building the technical skills of local partners, including NNT NP staff, researchers, and community members involved in conservation programs.

7. Technical Advising to Park Authorities
Association Anoulak played an advisory role to the Nakai-Nam Theun National Park Authority, particularly in the design and implementation of biodiversity research and monitoring protocols.

Supporting National and Global Conservation Goals

All of these programs were implemented in alignment with key national strategies and policies, including:

• The National Green Growth Strategy to 2030
• The National Socio-Economic Development Plan (2021–2025)
• The Forestry Law and Wildlife and Aquatic Law
• The National Elephant Management Action Plan (2021–2031)
• The Decree on Protected Areas (adopted in June 2023)
• The IUCN Green List strategy for Nakai-Nam Theun National Park

Through this multi-year collaboration, Association Anoulak and Nakai-Nam Theun National Park have made significant strides in preserving one of Southeast Asia’s most important biodiversity hotspots. The legacy of this partnership sets a solid foundation for continued cooperation and innovation in conservation in Lao PDR.

Looking Ahead

As the MoU chapter with Nakai-Nam Theun National Park comes to a close, Association Anoulak remains fully committed to its mission in Lao PDR. The organization’s future focus will center on strengthening the capacity of Lao civil society in the conservation sector through three core programs:

1. Youth Engagement – Inspiring and empowering young Lao individuals to explore and pursue careers in nature conservation through educational outreach, mentorship, and exposure to field-based opportunities.
2. Professional Development for Lao Conservationists – Enhancing the skills and knowledge of Lao professionals working in environmental protection and biodiversity through tailored training such as the Open Standards for the Practice of Conservation
3. Scholarships for Lao Students – Supporting Lao students through academic scholarships to undertake higher education in the fields of environmental science, biodiversity conservation, and related disciplines, fostering the next generation of national conservation leaders.

Through these initiatives, Association Anoulak will continue to invest in building a resilient, skilled, and passionate Lao conservation community to ensure long-term stewardship of the country’s natural heritage.

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A Foundation for Future Conservation Leaders

Last year, the program successfully brought together young Lao conservation enthusiasts for two weeks of intensive training and networking events. These sessions covered a wide array of critical topics in nature conservation, facilitated by esteemed conservation and capacity-building partners. Participants gained hands-on experience, knowledge, and connections that would help them pave a path in the sector, ensuring that conservation efforts continue to be driven by local expertise and passion.

A New Phase: Sustainability Through Collaboration

Recognizing the importance of long-term sustainability, this renewed partnership with EconoxLaos, a Lao civil society social enterprise dedicated to fostering sustainable lifestyles, marks an essential step forward. Through this collaboration, the program will transition to being implemented by a Lao institution, ensuring that its impact extends beyond short-term interventions. Association Anoulak and its sponsors will continue to provide guidance and support, reinforcing the program’s success while allowing for greater local ownership and leadership in its execution.

This collaboration with EconoxLaos was made official with the signature of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) earlier this month, solidifying our shared commitment to strengthening conservation efforts in Laos.

2025: A Focus on Career Readiness

This year, in 2025, the program will put a particular focus on fresh graduates who are ready to enter the job market. In addition to conservation training, we will provide coaching on career development, including guidance on the interview process, professional profiles, CV preparation, and networking strategies. Furthermore, we will coordinate with our partner organizations in Laos to facilitate volunteer opportunities, internships, and job placements for program participants, ensuring that they have a clear path toward meaningful careers in conservation.

With EconoxLaos and Association Anoulak providing continued support, the program is poised for an exciting new chapter. We will advertise the application process on social media in the coming weeks, opening the selection process for up to 30 Lao individuals eager to start their careers in nature conservation. The program will be implemented over two weeks in July 2025.

As we move forward, we invite conservation partners, donors, and stakeholders to continue supporting this initiative, ensuring that Lao youth remain at the heart of conservation efforts in their homeland.

Together, we are shaping the future of biodiversity conservation in Laos—one young conservationist at a time.

Why This Matters

Laos is home to some of the world’s most unique and endangered wildlife, including the Saola, red-shanked douc, and Owston’s civet. Protecting these species and their habitats requires a dedicated and well-equipped workforce. By nurturing the aspirations of young Lao conservationists, the Lao Youth on a Mission for Nature Conservation program ensures that the country’s natural heritage remains in the hands of those who cherish and understand it the most.

This renewed collaboration is not just about education; it’s about empowering a movement. By investing in the future generation of conservationists, we are building a stronger, more resilient conservation network led by Lao professionals who will drive impactful change for years to come.

Cohort 2024

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Methods and Key Findings

• Acoustic Analysis for Species Identification – We analyzed 90 gibbon songs from the wild in Lao PDR and Vietnam, along with 32 recordings from identified species obtained from zoological facilities. Our analysis of vocalizations from zoological facilities identified significant differences in male and female vocalizations, which we applied as training data in a machine learning classification analysis (Random Forest analysis), achieving an accuracy of 97% for males and 89% for females. This method proves to be a valuable tool for species identification in conservation programs.

• Geographic Overlap of Species – The study found both species present on both sides of the Nam Theun-Nam Kading River, challenging the previous assumption that this river serves as a strict geographical barrier between them. This new evidence suggests a more complex distribution pattern and possible interactions between the two species.

• Implications for Conservation – The presence of both species in overlapping ranges raises concerns about hybridization, which could impact conservation efforts. The findings emphasize the need for careful species identification before engaging in reintroduction or translocation programs to prevent genetic mixing and ensure effective management.

• Policy and Future Research – This study highlights the importance of conducting further genetic and ecological assessments to refine conservation strategies. Governmental and conservation organizations must consider these findings in ongoing biodiversity monitoring and protection initiatives in Nakai-Nam Theun National Park and surrounding areas.

A Call for Action

The research underscores the necessity of informed conservation planning to protect the distinct populations of Nomascus leucogenys andNomascus siki. With the threat of habitat loss and hunting, efforts must be reinforced to safeguard these endangered primates and their ecosystems.

For further details, the full publication is available in the International Journal of Primatology. or below:

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