Thanks to its diversified microclimates and topography, Da Nang takes pride in its high level of biodiversity.

Nestled on the east side of the city, the Son Tra Peninsula is home to 985 species of vascular plants and 287 animal species.  Most notably, 22 rare plant and 15 rare animal species are being protected.  One example of a protected rare animal species on the peninsula is the red-shanked douc langur, a type of monkey.

A red-shanked douc langur on the Son Tra Peninsula

Situated on the west side of the city, the Ba Na-Nui Chua Nature Reserve boasts vegetation within 5 different habitats.  There are 750 species of fauna and flora which are indigenous to the north and the south of the country.  Twenty-seven of the reserve’s 311 woody plant species are endemic to the central region.  “Hong Diep” (Gynocladus chinensis Baill) and “Dao Chuong” (En klanthus quinque fiorus lour) are the typical plant species in the reserve.

In addition, the Da Nang coastline includes examples of 3 major marine ecosystems: coral reefs, sea grass and seaweed.  There are 191 species of coral, plus marine animals such as molluscs, crustaceans, sea urchins and phytoplankton.  These marine creatures play an important role in maintaining the seafloor ecosystems and ensuring the biodiversity of local beaches.

The city’s high-speed economic growth, however, has partly resulted in a significant drop in its biodiversity over recent years.  As a result, the habitats of local animals and plants are shrinking, and many species are facing the threat of extinction.

Associate Professor Dinh Thi Phuong Anh from the Science-Technology-Environmental Science Department of the University of Da Nang stresses the need for the city to promote biodiversity conservation with a focus on protecting the red-shanked douc langurs, the Hong Diep and Dao Chuong plants, and other species of flora and fauna.

Looking at photos of local animal and plant species at the Biodiversity Exhibition

Da Nang’s first ever Biodiversity Exhibition took place at the Museum of Da Nang between 22 May and 5 June.  The event introduced visitors to the high values of biodiversity, genetic diversity, and the biological and economic values of local animal and plant species, as well as the local landscapes.  In addition, the exhibition also showcased photos of endemic animal and plant species which are alarmingly near extinction.