Sustainable Use of Biodiversity

Fish is the main source of animal protein in the diet of Cambodians. On the Tonle Sap, over 200 species of fish provide up to 80% of Cambodia’s total protein intake.1 12% of the rice produced in Cambodia comes from the floodplain of theTonle Sap.

Over 200 species of flora have been recorded in the Tonle Sap. The flooded forests around the Tonle Sap are vital for seasonal breeding serving as nursery grounds and forage areas for fish.

The forest is a source of foliage, fruits and seeds to feed animals, as well as materials for fishing gear. In addition, it provides shelter for floating houses during storms.

The wetlands of the Tonle Sap are also a key asset for the people living on and around the Tonle Sap. They are used for agriculture (both rice farming and cash crops), fishing and aquaculture, water supply (for drinking, washing, bathing and irrigation), forestry, conservation, tourism and transport. In the case of floating villages, they provide a basis for settlement. The wetlands also help dilute pollution, and are a potential source of hydropower.

The Tonle Sap provides a vast array of biodiversity resources. However, many species are endangered and a few have been lost. An example of this is the recent disappearance of the Irrawaddy Dolphin from the lake. It is crucial for the communities living on and around the Tonle Sap to develop sustainable ways to use their natural resources. Fishing itself has dropped in recent years to 230,000 tons, down from 400,000 tons in previous years. The forest cover in and around the Tonle Sap has also decreased dramatically, from more than 1 million ha originally to 614,000 ha in the 1960’s, 362,000 ha in 1991 and it is estimated at 240,000 ha presently.