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The mangrove forests of Cần Giờ are considered the 'green lungs' of Ho Chi Minh City, as well as a vital source of valuable aquatic species for the Southeastern region, recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve.
Exploring the Mangrove Forests of Cần Giờ – a World Biosphere Reserve on the Outskirts of Saigon
The Cần Giờ Biosphere Reserve is a protected area located in the coastal district of Cần Giờ, approximately 40 km southeast of downtown Saigon. Covering an area of 75,740 hectares, it includes 31,000 hectares of wetlands, mangrove forests, and other natural habitats. It is home to a diverse ecosystem, including over 200 bird species, 40 reptile species, and 20 mammal species.
One of the most important features of the Cần Giờ Biosphere Reserve is its extensive mangrove forests, which play a crucial role in protecting the coastline from erosion and providing habitats for numerous flora and fauna. The reserve is also a significant site for fishing and aquaculture, supporting the livelihoods of many local communities.
The mangrove forests of the reserve comprise a mixture of mangrove species: mangrove apple, mangrove fern, mangrove palm, mangrove fern, mangrove apple, mangrove coconut, and others. Mangrove apple and mangrove fern are pioneering species; as the mudflats stabilize, mangrove palm and other species colonize the area. Additionally, there are white mangroves, black mangroves, sea hibiscus, sour mangroves, mangrove palms, and pandanus. Agricultural crops include rice, sweet potatoes, various beans, coconuts, and fruit trees.
With its diverse and characteristic flora and fauna, besides its role in coastal protection and providing habitats for various animal species, the mangrove forests of Cần Giờ are also crucial in disaster prevention and regulating the weather for the entire Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring areas. The mangrove forests have a unique environmental condition, serving as an intermediary between the aquatic ecosystem and terrestrial ecosystem, freshwater and saltwater ecosystems.
Given its strategic location and practical significance, the Cần Giờ mangrove forests were recognized by UNESCO as the first biosphere reserve in Vietnam in 2000. Particularly, it has been earmarked to become a key tourist destination for Ho Chi Minh City and the entire Southeast region.
In addition to its ecological significance, the Cần Giờ Biosphere Reserve also holds cultural and historical importance, as it was once a stronghold for the military and civilians during the resistance war against the United States. Today, the Cần Giờ mangrove forests are a destination for nature enthusiasts, researchers, offering eco-tourism opportunities near Saigon to observe birds and navigate through the mangrove forests by boat.
Source: Mytour
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Reference: Mytour Travel Guide
TravelBuddy.comMarch 17, 2023
