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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Publication Date

Spring 2009

Program Name

Viet Nam: Ecology and Sustainability in the Mekong Delta

Abstract

The golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) is an invasive species that was first introduced into Southeast Asia in the 1980’s. Nearly three decades later, Pomacea canaliculata has become a widespread pest that threatens several key crops of the region, including Vietnam’s expansive rice fields. Although the economic implications of the spread of Pomacea canaliculata throughout Vietnam are disastrous, the environmental implications are also quite shocking. In Tram Chim National Park, the golden apple snail has shown its ability to survive and thrive off of local grasses and wild rice. To better understand the threat level of Pomacea canaliculata to Tram Chim National Park, this experiment is designed to examine the effect that the golden apple snail has on five common vegetation types. This project will also serve as a way to further establish which vegetation habitats Pomacea canaliculata is able to survive and reproduce within. The questions initially posed during this experiment remain largely unanswered, due to an unfortunate series of events involving grazing water buffalo and village thieves. However, the project provides solid empirical evidence on Pomacea canaliculata’s reproductive habits within each vegetation area and the golden apple snail’s ability to change the chemical balance of its surrounding environment. This final report also includes an intensive analysis and recommendations section for any future replication.

Disciplines

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology | Environmental Indicators and Impact Assessment

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