Publications
Cyrtomium lacrimipinnum (Dryopteridaceae), a new sexually reproducing fern from Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam
Researchers have identified and described a new fern species, Cyrtomium lacrimipinnum, from the limestone ridges of Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park in central Vietnam. This discovery stands out due to its unique combination of morphological traits, including pinnae with acute and attenuate apices and distinctive black or dark brown microscales on both surfaces of the pinnae. Unlike its closest relative, C. pachyphyllum, this species also exhibits a sexual reproductive mode, as evidenced by spore counts of 64 per sporangium. The study employed detailed morphological analysis to distinguish this new species from related taxa, contributing valuable insights into the biodiversity of UNESCO-listed Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park.
Cyrtomium lacrimipinnum Yoneoka, T. Fujiw., V. S. Dang & Tagane 2026, sp. nov.
A new species of fern, Cyrtomium lacrimipinnum, has been discovered in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park, Vietnam. This species is distinguished by its teardrop-shaped lateral pinnae, black or dark brown microscales on both surfaces of the pinnae, and unique venation patterns. It closely resembles Cyrtomium pachyphyllum and C. hemionitis but differs in key morphological traits such as pinnae apex shape and margin characteristics. The discovery was made through herbarium surveys and fieldwork, with specimens collected from limestone outcrops and crevices within shrubby moist forests. Notably, this species is believed to reproduce sexually, a rare trait among Cyrtomium ferns, which are predominantly apogamous. Further cytological studies are planned to clarify its biological characteristics.
Perilimnastes dongchauensis C. H. Nguyen, D. V. Nam & C. W. Lin 2026, sp. nov.
A new species of plant, Perilimnastes dongchauensis, has been discovered in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park, Vietnam. This lithophytic shrublet, characterized by its setose stems, adaxial surface, hypanthia, and notably large petals measuring 20 × 18 mm, differs significantly from its closest relative, P. suberalata, in several key morphological traits. The discovery was made through field surveys conducted in primary and old secondary evergreen broad-leaved forests at elevations ranging from 100 to 750 meters above sea level. Perilimnastes dongchauensis is locally common along streams and stream valley slopes with humus-rich soil, flowering from June to November and fruiting from July to December. Preliminary assessment suggests that the species is of least concern (LC) according to IUCN Red List criteria, as it thrives in both secondary and primary forests within protected areas.
Phát triển du lịch dựa vào thiên nhiên tại vườn quốc gia Phong Nha – Kẻ Bàng
Nature-based tourism in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity and cultural significance, has been identified as a sustainable pathway for economic growth while preserving ecological integrity. A study analyzing survey data from 105 visitors through linear regression revealed that enhancing tourism promotion, upgrading infrastructure to align with ecological standards, and improving local human resource quality are critical factors for sustainable development in the region. These findings underscore the potential of nature-based tourism to balance conservation efforts with economic benefits, offering a model for similar protected areas globally.
A new limestone-associated species of wolf snake in the Lycodon fasciatus complex (Squamata: Serpentes: Colubridae) from central Vietnam
Researchers have identified a new species of wolf snake, Lycodon calcarophilus sp. nov., within the Lycodon fasciatus complex from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in central Vietnam. This discovery was made through a combination of molecular and morphological analyses, distinguishing it from closely related species such as Lycodon ruhstrati by several key characteristics, including loreal contact with the eye, lower tail-to-total length ratio, fewer subcaudal scales, total body scales, and body cross-bands. The study also provides an updated checklist of 152 amphibian and reptile species documented in the park, contributing to our understanding of biodiversity in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A new species of Lycodon Fitzinger, 1826 from the Northern part of the Truong Son Mountains, Central Vietnam (Reptilia, Squamata, Colubridae)
Researchers have identified a new species of snake, Lycodon poyarkovi, within the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Dong Chau-Khe Nuoc Trong Nature Reserve in Central Vietnam. This discovery, based on four specimens, distinguishes L. poyarkovi from its closest relative, L. paucifasciatus, through key morphological differences such as higher ventral and subcaudal scale counts, increased crossbands on the body and tail, and fewer scales before the first crossband starts. The species appears endemic to the northern Truong Son Mountains, with the Ben Hai River acting as a biogeographic barrier separating it from L. paucifasciatus. The study suggests that L. poyarkovi should be classified as Least Concern (LC) under IUCN Red List criteria, while also highlighting the need for further taxonomic reassessment of related species like Lycodon anakradaya and L. cardamomensis.
Caryota sympetala Gagnepain & Conrard 1934
Caryota sympetala, a palm species found in central Vietnam and Laos, exhibits unique morphological characteristics that distinguish it from related species. This study provides a detailed botanical description of its physical traits, including its clustered stems, large bipinnate leaves, and distinctive inflorescences with bisexual flowers arranged in triads. The species' acaulescent habit—where a slender stem only appears at flowering time—and its reproductive biology, characterized by hapaxanthic growth and basipetal inflorescence development, are notable features. Caryota sympetala is also distinguished by its fused petals in pistillate flowers, a trait reflected in its scientific name. Despite its widespread distribution across lowland to montane forests on non-limestone soils, the species faces no significant threats, leading to its conservation status being classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN and BGCI.
Description of the second Calybium Morlet, 1892, and the first record of the genus for Vietnam’s terrestrial gastropod fauna (Neritimorpha: Helicinoidea: Helicinidae)
Researchers have identified and described Calybium plicatus, a new species of terrestrial gastropod (snail) belonging to the genus Calybium. This discovery marks the first record of the genus in Vietnam's terrestrial fauna, specifically within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park, part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The species was collected from Son Doong Cave in Quang Binh Province, Central Vietnam. Unlike its congener, Calybium massiei, C. plicatus exhibits a smaller shell size and distinct parietal wall features with six evenly spaced lamellae. This finding contributes to the understanding of biodiversity within these protected areas and expands the known distribution of the genus.
Factors affecting tourist satisfaction in ecotourism: A case study of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam
Tourist satisfaction at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam, is significantly influenced by destination attraction and ecotourism services, with staff quality having the least impact. A study analyzing responses from 185 tourists identified five key factors—destination attraction, ecotourism services, staff quality, price, and infrastructure—as critical to enhancing visitor experience. Using Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient, exploratory factor analysis, and regression analysis via SPSS 26.0, researchers found that prioritizing destination appeal and service quality could substantially improve satisfaction and support sustainable ecotourism development in the region.
Geoheritage Values of the Transboundary World Heritage of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park
A transboundary World Heritage Site spanning Phong Nha-Ke Bang and Hin Nam No National Parks, this study identifies unprecedented geoheritage values rooted in shared karst geology. It reveals a 500-million-year geological evolution from the Middle Cambrian to the Quaternary, highlighting the world's largest pristine humid tropical karst system with unmatched surface and subsurface diversity. Notably, it uncovers Triassic-Middle Jurassic paleokarst—buried surfaces and caves—an outstanding universal value absent in existing World Heritage sites. The research employed field surveys, laboratory analyses, document synthesis, and comparative analysis to clarify these exceptional geological and geomorphological features.
Microclimate characteristics and tourist carrying capacity of Phong Nha cave, Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park
Phong Nha Cave's tourist carrying capacity is determined to be up to 3,780 visitors per day under optimal conditions, with recovery times of 497 minutes in summer and 318 minutes in winter. This study marks the first application of the Lobo method using microclimate indicators—temperature, relative humidity (RH), and CO₂ concentrations—to assess environmental impact in a Vietnamese cave system. Continuous monitoring revealed significant seasonal variations, with average visitor stay times of 7.8 minutes in summer and 12.7 minutes in winter. These findings provide actionable guidelines for sustainable tourism management in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and offer a scalable model for other show caves in Vietnam.
Orophea phouphamarnensis (Annonaceae), a new species from limestone karst in central Laos
Researchers have discovered Orophea phouphamarnensis, a new species of plant belonging to the Annonaceae family, within the limestone karst landscapes of central Laos. This finding highlights the region's rich biodiversity, particularly in Khammouane Province, which is part of two significant protected areas: Phou Hin Poun National Protected Area and Hin Nam No National Park. The discovery underscores the ecological importance of these sites, which cover approximately 30,000 km² of limestone in Laos, contributing to the global understanding of plant diversity in fragmented limestone habitats.
Tree ring δ¹³C of Pines at acidic soil forest in central Vietnam: A preliminary result for further stable isotope application on climate change and environmental protection
A negative correlation between soil pH and δ¹³C in pine tree rings from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam, offers a new tool for tracking long-term forest acidification. By analyzing soil chemistry (pH, organic matter, nitrogen) alongside tree-ring isotopes, researchers found acidic soils with fine particles, suggesting natural and human-driven processes like acid rain. This relationship could reconstruct past environmental changes or climate impacts, while also guiding conservation efforts—such as planting suitable species—to mitigate acidity. The study provides a cost-effective framework for studying tropical forests under stress.
Another new species of Cyrtodactylus Gray, 1927 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) of the angularis group from the karstic landscape of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, central Vietnam
Researchers have identified a new species of Cyrtodactylus, C. hangvaensis sp. nov., within the karstic landscape of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (PNKB) in central Vietnam. This discovery highlights the park's significance as a biodiversity hotspot and a critical area for conservation. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that C. hangvaensis is closely related to two other species, C. roesleri from PNKB and C. sommerladi from nearby Laos, but it occupies a distinct position in morphospace, distinguishable by unique morphological and color pattern characters. Genetic divergence data further supports its status as a separate species, with uncorrected pairwise sequence divergence ranging from 9.5% to 25.5%. This finding underscores the rich biodiversity of PNKB and the importance of continued exploration and conservation efforts in such unique ecosystems.
Climatic niche modelling and genetic analyses highlight conservation priorities for the Spotted Softshell Turtle (Pelodiscus variegatus)
A critical conservation priority for the Spotted Softshell Turtle (Pelodiscus variegatus) has been identified, with Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam emerging as a key stronghold due to its large suitable habitat and high probability of species occurrence. This finding, derived from combined climatic niche modelling and genetic analyses, underscores the urgent need for conservation action across central Vietnamese provinces (Thanh Hoa to Thua Thien Hue) and adjacent protected areas like Vu Quang National Park and Song Thanh and Ke Go Nature Reserves. While the species likely extends into Laos, sharp declines in suitability near the border suggest significant natural barriers. Despite these insights, current protection efforts are insufficient, with no confirmed records from existing reserves, necessitating expanded or new conservation measures. The study also advocates for IUCN's One Plan Approach, including breeding programs to restore populations, highlighting a path forward for this Critically Endangered species.
Diversity of Commelinaceae in Laos and two new record species: Amischotolype glabrata Hassk., and Commelina maculata Edgew.
A comprehensive survey of Commelinaceae diversity in Laos identifies 23 species, including two new records: Amischotolype glabrata and Commelina maculata. Conducted across four national parks—Nam Et–Phou Louey, Nakai-Nam Theun, Hin Namnor, and Dong Houa Sao—the study maps distribution, ecology, and phenology of the family. Notably, 10 species shared between Nakai-Nam Theun and Dong Houa Sao exhibit the highest similarity index (0.2857), while marshy habitats host the majority (11 species). Flowering peaks in August, with all 23 species blooming between May and November. Conservation assessments reveal five IUCN Least Concern species (Commelina benghalensis, C. diffusa, Cyanotis axillaris, Cy. cristata, Floscopa scandens) and nine rare species warranting further protection. The research underscores the family's ecological adaptability while highlighting gaps in conservation data.
Free, prior, and informed consent, local officials, and changing biodiversity governance in Hin Nam No, Laos
A study on Hin Nam No National Park, Laos, reveals that mediation by local officials in comanagement contexts can effectively address community grievances and reconcile conservation with development. This process, rooted in free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC), demonstrates the potential for localized consent mechanisms to shape rights-based outcomes when local officials act as critical duty-bearers. The research highlights the importance of nonconfrontational dialogue spaces where rights holders can voice concerns and duty-bearers can respond, ultimately contributing to more equitable biodiversity governance in prospective World Heritage Sites.
Paleokarst in Phong Nha - Ke Bang - Hin Nam No and its Geomorphological and Geological Values
A groundbreaking discovery of paleokarst landforms in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Vietnam) and Hin Nam No National Park (Laos) reveals karstification dating back to the Triassic, predating previous estimates by millions of years. This study, confirmed through field surveys and thin-section analyses, identifies buried karst surfaces and filled fissures/caves developed on Devonian to Carboniferous-Permian limestones, providing critical evidence for karst evolution from the Triassic to Middle Jurassic. The findings suggest a new direction for karst research in Vietnam and propose that these paleokarst sites could represent significant Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) for the combined PNKB HNN region.
Crack in the Mountain
Hang Son Doong, the largest cave in the world located within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam, is a subject of intense debate regarding its future due to proposed cable car systems aimed at boosting tourism. The documentary 'Crack in the Mountain' highlights the cave's unique geological features, including its vast size and pristine beauty, while also exploring the potential ecological and social impacts of increased visitation. Environmental concerns about the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site are contrasted with economic opportunities for one of Vietnam's poorest provinces. The film captures the complexity of balancing development, tourism, and environmental conservation, featuring perspectives from locals, business owners, and environmentalists. A global social media campaign led by Save Son Doong has temporarily stalled government plans, but the struggle to protect this natural wonder continues.
First record of Scolopendra pinguis Pocock, 1891 (Chilopoda, Scolopendromorpha, Scolopendridae) from Vietnam
Researchers report the first documented occurrence of the centipede species Scolopendra pinguis in Vietnam, specifically within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park. This discovery extends the known distribution range of the species in Southeast Asia, contributing to our understanding of its geographic spread. The study provides detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations of the collected specimens, along with an updated distribution map. Such findings are significant for biodiversity documentation and conservation efforts in the region.
Geological History of Caves and Conservation Values of the World Nature Heritage Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park harbors some of the world's oldest and most diverse caves, with Khe Ry cave dating back 32 million years. The park's geological history is marked by complex stratigraphic units ranging from Devonian to present-day, including granite, terrigenous rock, thin-bedded limestone, and massive limestone. Tectonic activity has played a pivotal role in shaping the cave systems, with four major fault systems creating deep faults that influence cave formation. Exogenous processes, such as travertine floods, chemical washing, and mechanical abrasion, contribute to the unique landscapes within these caves, including stalactites, stalagmites, spiral mushroom islands, and gem pebbles. This study highlights the intricate interplay between endogenous and exogenous geological activities in forming the park's remarkable cave systems.
Novelties in Asian Mitreola (Loganiaceae): M. capitata, a new species from Vietnam, and lectotypification of M. spathulifolia
A new species of Mitreola, M. capitata, has been discovered in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam, distinguished by its unique leaf-rosette habit and compact, head-like inflorescence with dense indumentum. This discovery was made during a 2022 botanical survey and is closely related to M. spathulifolia but differs in key morphological traits such as smaller leaves, denser inflorescence, shorter pedicel, hairy calyx, and smaller capsule. Additionally, the study revises the typification of M. spathulifolia by selecting a lectotype, clarifying its taxonomic status.
Simulate landslide activities during flood season 2020 - 2021 in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park
During the flood seasons of 2020–21, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park experienced significant landslide activity, with the largest event displacing over 130 meters of soil and measuring 2.1 million cubic meters—a figure corroborated by remote sensing data (2.4 million m³). These events, occurring in both core and buffer zones, threatened the park's integrity and aesthetic value, despite its overall stability (gravity displacement coefficients Kg: 0.0006 for core, 0.0033 for buffer). The study identified 60+ landslide points across 81.19 hectares, with volumes ranging from 1,000 to 2.4 million m³, using field monitoring and simulation models. Such findings underscore the vulnerability of this UNESCO World Heritage Site to extreme weather, necessitating further research on mitigation strategies.
Community awareness and participation in biodiversity conservation at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam
Local communities near Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (PN-KBNP) exhibit strong positive attitudes toward biodiversity conservation and are willing to contribute financially, with an average household willing to pay 297,000 VND annually. This willingness is influenced by factors such as payment levels, age, residency duration, and education. While villagers recognize the ecological value of PN-KBNP due to daily interactions with the park, their awareness of management rules remains low. The study suggests that empowering communities in conservation planning, monitoring, and implementation—alongside clear land-use rights—could balance development and preservation more effectively.
First Records of Bats (Mammalia: Chiroptera) from the World’s Largest Cave in Vietnam
Son Doong Cave, the world's largest cave within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam, harbors at least six bat species, representing four families and five genera. This is the first comprehensive record of bats in this iconic site, revealing a diverse assemblage that includes two globally vulnerable species: Hipposideros scutinares (Hipposideridae) and Myotis pilosus (Vespertilionidae). Researchers used mist nets for capturing bats and analyzed their echolocation calls to distinguish between species. The findings highlight Son Doong Cave's significance as a biodiversity hotspot, particularly for threatened bat populations, underscoring the need for conservation efforts in this UNESCO-listed landscape.
The Effect of Destination Image on Tourist Satisfaction and Future Intention: A Case Study in Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh Province, Vietnam
A study on Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park reveals that destination image and tourist satisfaction are key drivers of visitors' future intention to revisit. The research, conducted using quantitative methods with 313 participants, found that destination image—shaped by factors such as travel environment, natural and cultural characteristics, tourism infrastructure, and local government support—positively influences both tourist satisfaction and the likelihood of returning. This insight underscores the importance of maintaining and enhancing these aspects to foster long-term visitor engagement. The findings provide actionable recommendations for Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and similar destinations.
A study on information searches for a lesser-known hot spot: The case of Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park in Vietnam
Travelers seeking information about Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a lesser-known but ecologically significant UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, prioritize practical details such as transportation options—including cross-border and domestic routes—and popular local experiences. Analysis of online travel forums revealed that while sites like Lonely Planet, Oxalis Adventure, Rough Guides, The Lost Passport, and Rome2rio offer standard destination overviews (e.g., landmarks, tours, accommodations), Oxalis Adventure stands out for its depth in logistical details, while The Lost Passport highlights lesser-known but favored on-site activities. Topic modeling of forum posts identified 27 distinct information categories travelers actively seek, emphasizing real-world needs beyond generic descriptions. This study underscores the gap between broad travel guides and the granular, context-specific data that travelers value for navigating remote or under-documented destinations.
Cynanchum quangbinhense (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae), a new species from Vietnam, and additional information on C. officinale
Researchers have identified and described Cynanchum quangbinhense, a new species of plant belonging to the Apocynaceae family, discovered within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam. This discovery increases the known diversity of the genus in Vietnam to seven species. The study highlights distinct morphological differences between C. quangbinhense and closely related species such as C. ovalifolium and C. kwangsiense, including variations in leaf shape, inflorescence structure, flower size, petal color, corona margins, and anther appendages. Additionally, the research provides a key to identifying Cynanchum species in Vietnam and offers notes on the morphological variation of C. officinale. The findings contribute valuable insights into the botanical diversity of the region while emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts for these unique plant species.
Seven new species and seven new records of Begonia L. (Begoniaceae) in the flora of Laos
A comprehensive botanical survey of Laos, conducted between 2012 and 2019, has uncovered seven new species of Begonia L. (Begoniaceae) and seven previously unrecorded species for the country's flora. The newly described species—B. glabritepala, B. heterocantha, B. lanxangensis, B. parviglandulosa, B. pseudobrandisiana, B. tripartifolia, and B. viriditenebris—were identified through extensive fieldwork in protected areas such as Hin Nam No National Park, Nam Phouy National Protected Area, Khammouane Karst Forest, and Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area. These discoveries were supported by critical analysis of herbarium specimens, living plants, and preserved material from multiple institutions. The study also documented the first records of B. hatacoa, B. hemsleyana, B. labordei, B. longifolia, B. minuscula, B. parvula, and B. subperfoliata in Laos, expanding the country's known biodiversity. Detailed descriptions, line drawings, photographs, and ecological data for all species were provided, contributing significantly to the understanding of Begonia diversity in Southeast Asia.
‘Henicorhynchus’ thaitui, a new species of cavefish from Central Vietnam (Teleostei, Cyprinidae)
Researchers have identified a new species of cavefish, 'Henicorhynchus' thaitui, from a subterranean stream within Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Central Vietnam. This discovery is notable for its distinct morphological traits, including a pale pink body, smaller eyes with diameters less than the length of its maxillary barbel, and two pairs of barbels, where the maxillary barbel is significantly longer than the rostral barbel. The study, published in ZooKeys, highlights the unique adaptations of this species, which sets it apart from all other congeners. The research contributes to the understanding of biodiversity within UNESCO World Heritage Sites, particularly in karst cave ecosystems.
Morphological Characteristics for Classification of Genus Cyprinus Linnaeus, 1758 in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park in the North Central Part of Vietnam
A morphological analysis of 56 Cyprinus fish specimens from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam, identified four distinct species: Cyprinus carpio, C. hieni, C. melanes, and C. quidatensis. This study contributes to the taxonomic understanding of the genus in the region by characterizing key morphological traits that differentiate these species. The research employed traditional morphometric techniques to classify specimens, providing valuable insights for biodiversity studies in this UNESCO-listed karst landscape.
Studies on the genus Capparis L. (Capparaceae) in Lao PDR. IV: A new species from the Khammouan Province
Researchers have identified and described a new species of Capparis, C. florida, from the Hin Nam No National Protected Area within the UNESCO-listed Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park in Lao PDR's Khammouan Province. This discovery belongs to the sect. Monostichocalyx and is characterized by its erect shrub form, widely ovate or elliptical leaf-blade, serial flowers in supra-axillary rows, and slender ovary with an evident style. The study compares C. florida with related taxa, such as the widespread C. micracantha, to elucidate its affinities and assesses its conservation status. This finding contributes to the understanding of Capparis diversity in Lao PDR's karst habitats.
Study on Community Participation in Tourism Activities in Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park
A study on Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its geological and biodiversity significance, reveals that community participation in tourism development is critical for sustainable socio-economic and environmental outcomes. The research, conducted by Tran (2020), found that effective engagement of local communities—through empowerment in planning, management, and advisory roles—enhances the success of tourism initiatives. Using Pretty's (1995) 7-step participation scale and evaluating factors such as awareness, motivation, and barriers across 32 criteria, the study assessed community involvement in this globally recognized destination. The findings underscore the need for targeted policies to overcome obstacles and maximize local contributions, ensuring tourism aligns with both conservation goals and community benefits.
Tourists’ Satisfaction, Loyalty and Intention to Return: Survey at Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam
A significant positive relationship between destination image, emotional value, and tourists' satisfaction, loyalty, and intention to return was identified at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam. The study, conducted through a survey of 270 visitors in 2019, employed robust statistical methods including Cronbach's Alpha, Exploratory Factor Analysis, Confirmatory Factor Analysis, and Structural Equation Modelling. Findings revealed notable differences between foreign and native tourists, as well as by gender, while age and income did not significantly impact outcomes. The research provides actionable recommendations for tourism authorities, local residents, and travel companies to enhance visitor experiences, satisfaction, and repeat visitation.
The first record of living “Fossil” species (Laonestes aenigmanus) in Phong Nha - Ke Bang, Quang Binh province, Vietnam
Researchers confirm the presence of Laonestes aenigmamus, a living 'fossil' species thought extinct since the Miocene, in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam. This discovery extends its known range from Hin Nam No National Biodiversity Conservation Area (Lao PDR) to central Vietnam, marking it as the sole surviving member of an ancient rodent family. The study identified four specimens through morphological and skull analysis, proposing the Vietnamese name 'Truong son Rat' (Annamite Rat). Threats include hunting and forest destruction, with urgent conservation action recommended due to its limited distribution and ecological significance.
You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hin Nam No National Park