Dr. Somphouthone Phimmachak, Lao’s first herpetologist
A researcher on the diversity and conservation of in Laos, Dr Somphouthone was already interested in farming as a child. This led her to study agriculture at the National University of Laos (NUoL), but she soon found out that she was more attracted by animals than plants. Thus, she graduated in 2002 with a specialization […]
A Photo Guide to Plants of Nam Kading National Protected Area in Laos
The authors would like to express their gratitude to the managers and staff of the Nam Kading National Protected Area for granting permission and providing invaluable support for our botanical survey in the area. We are also grateful to Chen-Jui Yang, Houan Vorasane, Kimihiko Hyakumura, Meng Zhang, Norikazu Okabe, Siriphone Lorvanhkham and Sylor Chayer for […]
Systematics, Ecology and Management of Rattans in Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam. (The Biological Bases of Sustainable Use)
The Greater Mekong region is one of the most biologically diverse places on the planet. Home to the world’s largest freshwater fish species and extensive tiger habitat, its forests, rivers, grasslands and wetlands pulse with life. About 80 per cent of the region’s 300 million people depend directly on the goods and services its ecosystems […]
Three new species of spinule-bearing frogs allied to Rana megatympanum Bain, Lathrop, Murphy, Orlov, and Ho, 2003 from Laos and Vietnam.
Three new species of frogs allied to Rana megatympanum are described from Laos and Vietnam. One new species is from the Bolaven Plateau of southern Laos, a second is from central Laos and adjacent central Vietnam, and a third is from northern Laos. The three new species are distinguished from similar species by skin texture, […]
New records and updated checklist of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) from Lao People’s Democratic Republic, with special emphasis on adult and larval surveillance in Khammuane Province
A list of mosquitoes from the Nakai Nam Theun National Protected Area along the Nam Theun, Nam Mon, Nam Noy, and Nam On rivers, Nakai District, Khammuane Province, Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) is presented. Fiftyfour mosquito taxa were identified, including 15 new records in the Lao PDR. A fragment of the mtDNA cytochrome […]
Six new species and eight new records of Gesneriaceae from Laos
Six new species of Gesneriaceae from Laos, namely Didymocarpus angustiflorus Souvann. & Lanors., D. bolavenensis Souvann., Soulad. & Phonep., D. laoticus Souvann. & Lanors., D. trilobus Souvann. & Phonep., Hemiboea olivifolia Souvann. & Tagane and Paraboea planiflora Souvann. & Lanors., are described and illustrated. Additionally, Aeschynanthus bracteatus Wall. ex A.DC., A. micranthus C.B.Clarke, Epithema ceylanicum […]
Case study on orchid exports from the Lao PDR: Recommendations for using the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora to increase sustainable orchid trade.
This report is a product of the project “Piloting CITES Implementation in Lao PDR: Strengthening Institutions through Case Studies”. Supported by the Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation (SDC), this initiative was carried out by IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and partners, including the National University of Laos and TRAFFIC, in 2007-2008.The initiative provided […]
Dr. Khamla Inkhavilay
Dr. Khamla Inkhavilay is the Deputy Director of the Office of Scientific Research and Academic Services and the Director of the Center of Excellence in Biodiversity at the National University of Laos (NoUL). The Center of Excellence conducts research, teaching, and training on Biodiversity and Conservation. The Research and Academic Service Office also plays an […]
Eco-friendly Fertilizers for Sustainable Farming
Ms. Vilaiphone Somsanit has begun producing bio-fertilizer for local farmers, offering an alternative for those interested in creating healthier agricultural options. This initiative allows individuals to enjoy delicious food while ensuring it is safe for consumption. To support this mission, she established I Love Agriculture, a company dedicated to producing bio-fertilizer for sustainable farming. Production, […]
promoting responsible investment in agriculture and food systems in the Lao Peoples Democratic Republic
Why is Rai important in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic? Successful experiences and stories from government officials


