Publication: The Annamite Mountains – A Biodiverse Ecosystem at Risk: A Case Study in Nakai – Nam Theun National Park, Lao P.D.R.

The Annamite Mountains extend from northern Viet Nam along the border area with Lao PDR and south into southern Viet Nam. The region is a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its high level of endemic species of fauna and flora, variety of ecosystems, and characteristic geophysical and climatic patterns. The Nakai – Nam Theun National Park, located in east central Lao PDR within the Annamite Mountains, provides a case study of the rich biodiversity of the region and the threats it is facing. Many large wildlife species have already gone extinct from Nakai – Nam Theun in the past two decades. This is due to the intensive trade-driven wildlife hunting that is widespread in the region. However, Nakai – Nam Theun is still considered one of the most important protected areas for its conservation significance at the national and global level, as well as for its diversity of human ethnic minorities. The conservation of this highly diverse area will only be possible with a strong commitment from the government of the Lao PDR for long-term management actions.