Cambodia's Natural Wealth: A Delicate Balance

When people think of Cambodia, they think of stone temples. But the true wealth of this Kingdom lies in its "Green Gold." From the Cardamom Mountains to the Mekong River, Cambodia possesses some of the most diverse and fragile ecosystems in Southeast Asia.

The Three Pillars of Life

1. The Lifeblood (Mekong)

The Mekong River is a superhighway for fish. It supports the world's largest inland fishery, providing 80% of the protein consumed by the Cambodian people. It is also home to the critically endangered Irrawaddy Dolphin.

2. The Heart (Tonle Sap)

This lake is a hydrological miracle. During the monsoon, the river flow reverses, expanding the lake by five times its size. This "pulsing heart" nourishes the flooded forests and rice paddies of the central plains.

3. The Lungs (Cardamoms)

The Cardamom Rainforest is the largest remaining rainforest in Southeast Asia. It acts as a massive carbon sink and a refuge for clouded leopards, sun bears, and wild elephants.

🦅 Wildlife Spotlight: The Giant Ibis

Did you know Cambodia's National Bird is the Giant Ibis? It is the largest ibis in the world and was thought to be extinct for decades. Today, a small population (less than 300) survives in the remote northern plains of Preah Vihear. Seeing one is the ultimate prize for birdwatchers.

💡 The Delicate Balance

Development (dams, logging, and roads) poses a severe threat to these ecosystems. This is why Eco-Tourism is so vital. When you pay to trek in the jungle or watch birds, you prove that the forest is more valuable standing up than cut down.

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