Mangrove forests of Cambodia: Recent changes and future threats

Abstract

Mangrove forests around the world are critical agents for coastal area protection, ecosystem services and socioeconomic functions. Cambodia is rich is natural resources such as mangrove forests. There are many discrepancies in the estimated area of mangrove forests by different agencies over a few decades in Cambodia. In this study, decadal changes in mangrove forests along the Cambodian coastline were analysed using satellite data (Landsat series). Overall loss of mangrove forests between 1989 and 2017 has been estimated as 42% (1415 ha/year) in the four coastal provinces of Cambodia (Koh Kong, Kampot, Preah Sihanoukville, and Kep). Individual losses of mangrove areas in Koh Kong, Kampot, Sihanoukville and Kep during the study period were 39%, 45%, 52% and 34%, respectively. Three main causes of mangrove forest destruction in Cambodia (salt farming, charcoal production and shrimp farming) have been perceived based on the literature review. Reforestation of mangrove species, banning on illegal charcoal production and deactivation of non-profitable aquaculture ponds are some of the key factors that are believed to have caused a reduction in mangrove loss in recent years in Cambodia.