SURVEY REPORT Local Agro-Biodiversity Initiative Under Agro-Biodiversity Project Phonexay District, Luang Prabang Province September, 2016

SURVEY REPORT Local Agro-biodiversity Initiative under Agro-biodiversity Project Phonexay District, Luang Prabang Province September, 2016

Report prepared by:

Ole S. Pedersen Fuevue Chertchai Amphone Chanthavang Xia Khamvang Bouphan Yoysaykham

Acknowledgements The authors gratefully thank the villages in Naxaithong, Paen and Poungman for their hospitality and patience in providing information on the use of the local aquatic biodiversity. Special thanks go to Prof. Dr. Kongmany Soudaya and Mr. Onevilay Souliya of the Institute of traditional Medicine and Ms. Somsanith Bouamanivong of the Biotechnology and Environment Institute for helping out with the scientific plant names and to Dr. Brian Stuart of the Museum of Natural Sciences of North Carolina for adding insights into the reptile group. Finally, the authors are much indebted to Mr. Wihane Sibounheuang of the ABP project for his tireless efforts in helping out with a number of difficult species.

Summary document A summary of this report has been presented as part of a side event during the FAO Council Meeting, June 2014, Rome and can be downloaded at http://www.fao.org/3/a-i3841e.pdf.

Front page clockwise from top: Siamese fighting fish, four-striped skink, fern, rice field crap, swamp eel, grasshopper, apple snail, and green algae.

List of Contents SUMMARY ...... iv 1. BACKGROUND ...... 1 2. METHODOLOGY ...... 2 3. FARMING SYSTEM ...... 3 3.1 Naxaithong village ...... 3 3.2 Paen village ...... 4 3.3 Poungman Village ...... 4 4. RESULTS ...... 4 4.1 Plant species ...... 5 4.2 Insect species ...... 7 4.3 Fish species ...... 8 4.4 Amphibians ...... 9 4.5 Reptile and annelid species ...... 10 4.6 Molluscs ...... 11 4.7 Crustaceans ...... 11 5. TOOLS AND COLLECTION METHODS...... 12 6. LOCATION OF SPECIES IN THE ECOSYSTEM ...... 13 7. TREND OF BIODIVERSITY ...... 13 8. UTILIZATION OF AQUATIC SPECIES...... 14 9. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION ...... 16 10. FOLLOW-UP ...... 18 10. REFERENCES ...... 19 11. SUGGESTED READINGS ...... 19

iii

SUMMARY

In Lao PDR, the rural population has a long tradition of making use of the animal and plant aquatic organisms from the paddy rice based ecosystem. These organisms are an important part of the agro-biodiversity and an essential contribution to food security and a balanced diet. However, existing information is limited and often relying on interviews only and rarely accompanied with photographic documentation and scientific names.

During the 2013 wet season, the GEF funded Agro-biodiversity project in partnership with the FAO Regional Rice Initiative, conducted a field assessment in three remote villages (Naxaithong, Paen and Poungman) of Phoukhout District in Xieng Khouang Province of Northers Laos. The survey area is situated in a larger area of 200 ha of scattered paddy rice fields with well- connected smaller streams, earthen irrigation canals and small trap-ponds. Data collection was carried out and photographs were taken from early August to middle of October 2013, by two local university graduates, 2-3 times per week, A total of 95 species were photographed and recorded during the survey. The plant and insect species made up two-thirds of the total species (39 and 21, respectively), followed by 13 fish, seven amphibians, five reptiles, five molluscs, four crustaceans and one annelid. The species were dominantly used for own consumption and to less extent for sales at local markets. Three plant species and the freshwater leech were only used as medicine. Compared to initial discussions with villagers, the number of photographed species was slightly lower than the number informed beforehand.

Compared to an earlier study 10 years ago, this assessment has a higher number of species mainly due to a higher number of insect and plant species, which is most likely stemming from the fact that the farmers in the area are not applying pesticides to their rice fields.

Twenty different fishing and collection methods were photographed, including baskets, nets, traps, but also glue and sticks were used. No illegal fishing tools were recorded, although occasionally practiced in the area.

The survey underscored that the upland rural population in Laos makes good use of a the large number of aquatic animal and plants species supporting their livelihood in terms of diverse nutrition, better health, as well as income from sales at local markets.

1. BACKGROUND

Agro-biodiversity in the paddy rice-based ecosystems is very important for the people of the Lao People's Democratic Republic and especially for the rural population, many of whom rely on paddy rice plus a huge number of other species. The eco-system yields plants and animals that are sources of protein and micronutrients, traditional medicine as well as income. Capturing animals and gathering plants is generally seasonal and specific to groups of animals and plants.

In Lao PDR, nearly 500 fish species (22 exotic) have been recorded, however, other aquatic animals (shrimps, frogs, crabs, molluscs, insects, grubs, worms, etc.) and plants are less studied, in particular their use by farming communities in the upland areas (Phonvisay, 2013). Some 97 percent of the population in Lao PDR eat 160 different insects (ant eggs, crickets, grasshoppers, cicadas, worms, bugs, wraps, flies, etc.) containing 20–70 percent dry weight protein.

During the rainy season of 2003, a field assessment on aquatic biodiversity in paddy rice-based ecosystems was carried out in Khoum and Hok villages, Kham District of Xieng Khouang Province and in Xieng Louang Village Viengxai District of Huaphan Province. The study revealed a total of 82 species and stated that due to short duration of the study, not all species could be recorded, (Choulmany, 2005).

Another study from Xieng Khouang and Luang Prabang (Gregory et al. 2007) noted that the diversity of aquatic species used by villagers is highly dependent on location, and noted that at least 20 species of fish, four species of frogs, three species of molluscs, and 22 plant species were regularly consumed by upland villagers. The species were given in local names without accompanying photos and scientific names. The same study reported a significant reduction of species during the last decade. Part of the survey area

In May 2013, the Lao Agro-biodiversity Project (ABP)1 was invited to become a partner to the FAO Regional Rice Initiative (RRI). Subsequently, ABP carried out this assessment of aquatic organisms in rice-based ecosystems in Phoukout District of Xieng Khouang Province in conjunction with similar assessments in Indonesia and the Philippines.

1 Full title of the project: Mainstreaming Biodiversity in Lao PDR's Agricultural and Land Management Policies, Plans and Programmes (GEF/UNDP: 0075435 and FAO: UNTS/FAO/015/GEF).

2. METHODOLOGY a) Initial Training Two university graduates from the area were trained for one day at the Department of Livestock and Fisheries in Vientiane on the overall assessment methodology, background material and data sheets. b) Site selection and preparatory local meetings Guidelines for site selection included larger paddy field areas connected with ponds and streams.

Prior to the field assessment, a number of local consultations and planning meetings were held. Proposed by the Deputy Governor and Head of the Agriculture and Forest Office (DAFO) the village authorities agreed on Naxaithong, Poungmanh and Paen villages for the assessment.

In each of the three participating villages, a detailed introduction meeting was held with 20–25 villagers to inform about data gathering methodology and to obtain information on the farming systems, water sources, harvest season, major species and their use, fishing tools, and if possible a 10-15-year trend on the abundance of species. The meetings revealed some confusion regarding names of species, and it was learned that pesticides and in-organic fertilizers were not applied. c) Survey area and duration The survey area is a part of Nam Ngum Watershed and located in a valley some two km wide and six km long with a small gravity irrigation systems and scattered rice fields amidst hills and low mountains. The water bodies consist of paddy fields, small streams as well as earthen canals and small trap ponds in the rice fields. Supplementary irrigation water for the paddy fields originates from the small streams and small earthen and feeder canals and excess water is eventually drained into the Nam Ngum and Wah rivers. All-purpose scoop basket

The assessment was conducted over three months from August to October 2013, coinciding with the main part of the rice growing period.

3. FARMING SYSTEM

The farming system practiced by farmers in the three villages is diverse, but dominated by wet season rice followed by dry season vegetables in places where gravity irrigation is possible. In addition, farmers own a small number of scavenging livestock (see details below). The area is rather cold and temperatures can drop to near freezing in winter and up to 30 degrees Celsius during the summer.

Table 1. Cropping calendar and main period for collecting aquatic species Activities Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Paddy land preparation and nursery Paddy rice transplanting and growing Paddy rice harvesting Dry season cropping Fishing period in paddy fields and canals Fishing in trap ponds Main fishing in streams Main fishing in rivers

Raising fish in (trap) ponds is an integral part of the rice field ecosystem and no significant differences were recorded between the three villages.

3.1 Naxaithong village The village was established in 1987 and Naxaithong consists of 178 households of Thai Phouan (Lao Loum) and Hmong ethnic minorities. The total population was 840 people (54 percent females), with 12 percent belonging to the Hmong ethnic group. The main agricultural activity is paddy rice cultivation. Some cattle, buffalo, goat, pig, and poultry are raised in addition to small scale vegetables cultivation. The total paddy rice area is 123 ha. In addition to the paddy fields, harvesting of aquatic resources is also done in Nam Ngum River, Khueng stream and two small village ponds. Paen Village

A few years back, the village established regulations aimed at the conservation and management of aquatic species in the river. Some illegal fishing tools, however, are still used in the river and streams by some villagers and outsiders.

3.2 Paen village The village was established in 1985, consisting of Thai Phouan (Lao Loum) and Hmong (17 percent) ethnic groups. The number of households is 123 with a population of 573 (50 percent females). The main occupation of the villagers is paddy rice cultivation of a total area of 48 hectares. Large, livestock (buffalo, cattle, goats, and pigs) and poultry and vegetables are raised mainly for own consumption.

In addition to the paddy rice fields, the aquatic resources include Ngum and Xanh rivers which are located near the village.

The village has promulgated regulations on fishing including fines on illegal fishing in streams, ponds and in the Xanh and Ngum rivers.

3.3 Poungman Village The Poungman village was established in Poungman Village 1793. It has 103 households and a total population of 483 (54 percent females) all belonging to the Thai Lao Phouan ethnic group. The key occupation is paddy rice cultivation of a total of 25 hectares, supplemented by raising livestock (cattle, buffaloes, pigs, goats, and poultry) and growing vegetables.

In addition to the rice fields, the villagers maintain four village ponds and have access to the Ngum and Wah rivers as well as to the a few streams.

4. RESULTS

The total number of species recorded and photographed were 95 species, divided into seven groups ranked in order of biodiversity: 39 plants, 21 insects, 13 fish species, 7 amphibians (frogs and toads), five reptiles (snakes, skinks and lizards), five molluscs (snails and mussels), four crustaceans (crabs, and prawns) and one annelid (freshwater leech), see tables 2. With the exception of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and common carp (Channa striata) all the Cholorophyta spirogyra - Green algae

species are indigenous. The complete list of species is provided in Table 3-9.

Table 2. Summary of spices used by villages, by group of organism Group Organism Group Organism Plants 39 Reptiles 5 Insects 21 Molluscs 5 Fish species 13 Crustaceans 4 Amphibians 7 Annelids 1 Total: 95 species

4.1 Plant species The plant species are readily available compared to the animal species. A total of 39 species were photographed, of which one species was a green algae (Cholorophyta spirogyra) and two species were ferns i.e. Diplazum esculentum and water clover (Marsilea quadrifolia). All species were harvested from the paddy field area, except three species, i.e. sweet flag (Acorus calamus), pygmy water-lily (Nymphaea tetragona) and pink water lily (Nymphaea rubra) which were harvested from ponds, Marsilea quadrifolia - water clover irrigation canals, or small streams, see table 3.

All species are eaten fresh, except three species which are solely used as traditional medicine i.e. water primrose (Ludwigia octovalvis), Chinese Ginger (Boesenbergia rotunda) and Naples garlic (Eleutherine subaphylla). Additionally, six medicinal plants were also consumed fresh in various dishes. Only one of the consumed medicinal plant is sold i.e. centella (Centella asatica), see Annex 1.

In total, 22 species are solely collected for food, eight Boesenbergia rotunda - Chinese Ginger species for food and sale, four species for food and medicine, one species for food, sale and medicine each.

The plant species are collected by hand or with a knife or some other sharp instruments. The plant species are mostly available from May to October, but are generally picked year round, except for 10 highly seasonal species, see Annex 2.

Compared to 10 years ago, centella is much more Eleutherine subaphylla - Naples garlic frequent, six plant species are more frequent, seven

plant species are regarded as equally frequent, 15 plant species are less frequent, and 10 plant species are much less frequent, see Annex 2.

Table 3. Aquatic plant species used by villagers Rice Irrr. Nearby Photo No Scientific name English Name Local Name Pond Field Canal stream 23 Hydrocotyle vulgaris Indian pennywort Phak nork phanh x 24 Centella asiatica Centella Phak nork noy x 25 Monochoria vaginalis Pickerel weed Phak heen bai soy x x x 26 Eichhornia crassipes Water hyacinth Phak top x x x 27 Colocasia esculenta "Wild taro", "elehpant ear" Phak bone x x x x 28 Hydrocotyle verticillata Pennywort Nae noy x x x 29 Monochoria hastata/vaginalis Arrow leaf pond weed Phak kane x x x 30 Blyxa sp. Blyxa Nae houa xong x x x 31 Ludwigia octovalvis Water Primrose Gna lack na x x 32 Oenanthe linearis or japanica Oeanthe Phak sie xang x x 33 Monochoria ovata Kunth. Oval Leaf Pondweed Phak heen bai moune x x 34 Lygopodium sp. Lycopod Phak koot ngong x x x x 35 Limnophila sp. Marshweed Phak daeng x x 36 Cholorophyta spirogyra Green algae Thao x x x 37 Lindernia grandiflora Blue moneywort/False pimpernelPhak kane pou x x 38 Boesenbergia rotunda Chinese ginger Wane phai x 39 Hydrocotyle sp. Water pennywort Phak khouang x x 40 Houttuynia cordata Lizard tail, Fishwort, Bishop's Phakweed khao thong x x 41 Eleutherine subaphylla Naples garlic Phak boua leuath x x 42 Limnophila chinensis sl Rice paddy herp Phak kha gnaeng/ khanyaeng x x x 43 Acmella oleracea? Toothache plant Phak khath x x 44 Diplazum esculentum Fern Phak koot/Phakkoot nam x x x x 45 Marsilea quadrifolia Water clover/Pepperwort Phak waen x x 46 Juncus prismatocarpus Branching rush Phak fan fuen x x 47 Eryngium foetidum Long coriander Phak hom paen/Hom Pae x x x 48 Ipomoea aquatica Water spinach/Morning glory Phak bong nam/Phak Bong x x x 49 Pratia nummularia Roundleaf star creeper Phak ket hoy/Nha ket hoy x x 50 Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides Dwarf pennywort Phak nork naek/ Phak Nok Na x x 51 Acorus calamus Sweet flag Nor wang/ Warn nam x x 52 Alternanthera sessilis Sessile joyweed Phak kane tanh x x 53 Persicaria hydropiper Water-pepper Phak pheo nam/Phaew nam x x x 54 Nymphaea tetragona Pygmy water-lily Phak loy x 55 Crassocephalum crepidoides Thickhead/Fireweed Phak gnord hung/ Nha nhun ho x x 56 Phak kou nam x x 57 Fagopyrum esculentum Common buckwheat Phak bong som x x x 58 Nymphaea rubra Pink water lily Dok boua/Bua khee bae x x 59 Bidens chinensis Hairy beggarticks Nha koun cham x x x 60 Hydrolea zeylanica Water primrose Phak bee ian x x x 61 x Kaempferia sp. Kaempferia Warn kae phit

4.2 Insect species A total of 21 insect species were photographed during the field survey with the majority belonging to various groups of crickets, grasshoppers, green bush-crickets, cicadas, katydids, sting bug (Tesseratoma sp.), a giant water bug, (Lethocerus indicus), a Chinese mantis (Tenodera sinensis), a diving beetle (Cybister fimbriolatus), a water scorpion (Nepa cinera), a katydid, a dragon fly larvae, and a water spider, see table 4. Compared to 10 years ago, the villagers reported that 9 species are less frequent, 7 Aiolopus thalassinus - Grasshopper species are more frequent and 5 species at the same level, see Annex 3. Table 4. Insect species Rice Irrr. Nearby Photo No Scientific name English Name Family Local Name Pond Field Canal stream 62 Brachytrupes portentosus Cricket Gryllidae Maeng chi lith x 63 Odonata sp Anisoptera Larvae Gryllidae Maeng niao sa x x x x

64 Acrida bicolor s.l. Acrida grasshopper Acrididae Tak taen kha nhao x 65 Nepa cinera Water scorpion Nepidae Maeng ta lo x x x x 66 Lethocerus indicus Giant water bug Belostomatidae Maeng da na x x x x 67 Acheta domestica House cricket Gryllidae Maeng chi lor x 68 Gryllotalpa africana Mole cricket? Gryllotalpidae Maeng xone x 69 Coleoptera Beetle larvae Coleoptera Maeng ngeuak pet noy x x x x 70 Cybister fimbriolatus Diving beetle Dytiscidae Maeng niang x x x x 71 Aiolopus thalassinus Grasshopper Acrididae Tak taen khiao/take tene x 72 Tesseratoma sp Stink bug Pentatomidae Maeng khaeng x x 73 Tenodera sinensis Chinese mantis Mantidae Maeng ma x 74 Tettigonia viridissima Ensifera Tetigoniidae Maeng manh x 75 Chremistica sp Cacada sp Cicadidae Maeng chack chanh x

76 Melanoplus differentialis sl Grasshopper Acrididae Tak taen/tene noy/noi x 77 Conocephalus sp Green bush cricket Tettigoniidae Maeng kap kong khao x 78 Melanoplus differentialis sl Green bush cricket Tettigoniidae Maeng na ngam x 79 Holochlora nigrotympana Katydid Tettigoniidae Maeng hou nar x 80 Anisoptera sl Dragonfly larvae Aeshnoidea Maeng niao khoune x x x x 81 Scudderia sp. Brown katydid Tettigoniidae Maeng kanh cho x 82 Dolomedes sp. Water spider Pasauridae Maeng moum nam x x x x

The insects are mainly harvested within the rice field areas (table 4), and most (16) are eaten the same day. Five species (crickets, cicadas, grasshopper, and diving beetle) are also sold at local markets, see Annex 4.

The catching methods are mainly by hand, but also scoop basket, scoop and triangular nets and mosquito nets are used.

Brachytrupes portentosus - cricket

The cicadas are caught by hand or with help of glue, see Annex 3. The high season is from June to December, although most species, except four (some crickets), are caught around the year, see Annex 5.

4.3 Fish species Lethocerus indicus - giant water bug A total of 13 fish species were identified by villagers during the participatory meeting at the village and the same number of species were found and photographed during the survey period. These included mully catfish (Wallago attu), walking catfish (Clarias batrachus), snakehead (Channa striata), and the swamp eel (Monopterus albus). The exotic species of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and common carb (Cyprinus carpio) were also found, see Table 5. Notably, the Carssian carb (Carassius sp.) is only known from a few provinces of Laos.

All fish species were caught in the four water resources i.e. the rice fields, trap ponds, small connecting earth canals, streams and rivers. Carassius sp. - Carssian carb Table 5. Fish species collected by villagers Rice Irrr. Nearby Photo No Scientific name English Name Family Local Name Pond Field Canal stream 1 Systomus orphoides Javaen Barb/Common Cyprinidaespotted barb Pa pok x x x x 2 Wallago attu Mully catfish Siluridae Pa khao x x x x 3 Channa gachua Dwarf snakehead Channidae Pa kan/ kang x x x x 4 Channa striata Common snakehead Channidae Pa kor/ khoh x x x x 5 Trichopsis vittata Croaking gourami? Osphronemidae Pa bin x x x x 6 Oreochromis niloticus Nile tilapia Cichlidae Pa nin x x x x 7 Betta spendens Siamese fighting fish Osphronemidae Pa kat x x x x 8 Cyprinus carpio Common carb Cyprinidae Pa nai x x x x 9 Monopterus albus Swamp eel Synbranchidae Ian x x x x 10 Opsarius pulchellus Mackarel barb Cyprinidae Pa kham/khum x x x x 11 Carassius sp. Carssian carb Cyprinidae Pa faek x x x x 12 Esomos metallicus Striped flying carb Cyprinidae Pa siew x x x x

13 Clarias batrachus Walking catfish Clariidae Pa duk/douk x x x x

All species are preferred to be consumed on the same day or sold at local market. Alternatively, all species may be dried, smoked or fermented, with the exception of the Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), which is not smoked and the swamp eel (Monopterus albus),

which is not fermented. The species preferred for fermentation is croaking gourami (Trichopsis vittata), which is the least preferred in daily cooking, see Annex 6.

Compared to 10 years ago, the villagers reported that six species are much less frequent, five species are less frequent, while two species: Siamese fighting fish (Betta spendens) and mackarel barb (Opsarius pulchellus) appeared more frequent, see Annex 7. The main reason given for the declining of most fish species is high market demand, but certainly the negative effect of illegal fishing gear on the ecology (up or down stream) should not be underestimated. Opsarius pulchellus – mackerel barb mmachxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx A total of 12 different fishing tools were used of which the scoop net, the scoop basket and the triangular scoop net were most common, but also baskets and traps were used, see Annex 8 and 9. No illegal fishing methods were reported, although not uncommon in the area.

4.4 Amphibians A total of seven frogs and toads were photographed during the field survey, mainly in the rice fields and three species close to the river/stream. Two of the species, i.e. the large headed frog (Limnonectes khulii s.l.) and the Goangdong frog (Rana macrodactyla) were only caught in the paddy rice field, see table 5.

The species are generally consumed fried or smoked, though they may also be sold. One species, the black- Polypedates leucomystax sl. - Common tree frog spined toad/Asian common toad (Bufo melanostictus) is used as traditional medicine, see Annex 11.

Table 6. Amphibians collected by villagers Rice Irrr. Nearby Photo No Scientific name English Name Local Name Pond Field Canal stream 89 Microhyla heymonsi Dark-sided chorus frog Kiet chi mae x x x x 90 Hoplobatrachus rugulosus Chinese edible frog Kop na x x x x 91 Limnonectes kuhlii complex Large headed frog complexKop hoy x 92 Rana macrodactyla Guangdong frog Kiet ka yo x 93 Polypedates leucomystax complexCommon tree frog complexKiet ka path x x x x 94 Bufo melanostictus Black-spined toad/ AsianKhan common khak toad x x

95 Fejervarya limnocharis Rice field frog, Asian grassKied/t frog chi mo x x x The species are caught by hand, with nets, baskets, and with the help of a torch during night

time, see Annex 12. All species are available around the year, except for the Chinese edible frog, which is only seen during April to October. Compared to 10 years ago, villagers reported that four of these species are in decline while two species are now slightly more frequent, i.e. the Chinese edible frog (Hoplobatrachus rugulosus) and the common tree frog (Polypedates leucomystax). One species was at same frequency, i.e. the dark-sided chorus frog (Microhyla heymonsi), see Annex 10.

4.5 Reptile and annelid species A total of five reptiles and one annelid species were reported and photographed. The reptiles consisted of three snakes: the red necked keelback (Rhabophis subminiatus), the Indo-chinese rat snake (Ptyas korros) and the checkered keelback (Xenochrophis piscator); one skink, the four striped skink (Mabuya multifasciata) and one lizard, i.e. the oriental garden lizard (Calotes versicolor). One annelid, the freshwater leech (Hirundinaria sp) was also recorded, Rhabophis subminiatus - Red-necked keelback see table 7.

Table 7. Reptile and annelid species collected by villagers Rice Irrr. Nearby Photo No Scientific name English Name Local Name Pond Field Canal stream 83 Mabuya multifasciata Four-striped skink Chi koune x 84 Rhabophis subminiatus Red-necked keelback Ngou khaw daeng x 85 Xenochrophis piscator complex Checkered keelback Ngou pa x x x x 86 Hirudinaria sp. Freshwater leech Ping x x x x 87 Ptyas korros Indo-Chinese rat snake Ngou sing x x

88 Calotes versicolor Oriental garden lizard Kar pom khang x

The checkered keelback and the skink were widely found, whereas the remaining four species were limited to the paddy field, see table 7. All species could be found year round with a small peak during June to September, except the lizard which peaked during December to March. Only the skink was recorded to be declining in number, whereas the remaining species were of the same level compared to 10 years ago, see Annex 13. Various methods were used to capture the reptiles, such as by hand, nets, baskets or beating with a stick, see Annex 14. The leech Calotes versicolor – oriental garden lizard was used for medicine and the rest are eaten. The Indo-

chinese rat snake was the only reptile sold at the local market, see Annex 15.

4.6 Molluscs Four different snails, i.e. the apple snail (Pila sp.), the giant African land snail (Achatina fulica), the red rimmed melania (Melanoides tuberculate s.l.), the river snail (Viviparidae) as well as the freshwater (bivalve) mussel (Pilsbryoconcha exilis) were photographed during the field survey, see Table 8. The apple snail and the river snail were found in all the wetland habitats, Achatina fulica - giant African land snail whereas the red-rimmed melania was only captured in

Table 8. Molluscs collected by villagers Rice Irrr. Nearby Photo No Scientific name English Name Family Local Name Pond Field Canal stream 18 Pila sp Apple snail Ampullriidae Hoy pak kouang x x x x 19 Pilsbryoconcha exilis "Freshwater bivalve" Unionidae Hoy kii x x 20 Achatina fulica Giant African land snail Achatinidae Hoy lai x 21 Melanoides tuberculata sl Red-rimmed melania Thiaridae Hoy lek chane x

22 Viviparidae River snail Viviparoidea Hoy noy/noi x x x x rivers and streams and the giant African land snail was only found in the rice fields. The mussel was caught from trap ponds and streams, see table 8. The species are available year round, but mostly from June to October, except the mussel which has a slight peak during the October-April dry season, see Annex 16.

The species are primarily caught by hand and in case of the apple snail, red-rimmed melania and the river snail Pilsbryoconcha exilis - fresh water mussel also with a scoop net and scoop basket, see Annex 17. All are consumed and the apple snail also has a medicinal use. The mussel, the freshwater snail and the red-rimmed melania are sold at the local market, see Annex 18.

4.7 Crustaceans At the introductory meeting, the villagers reported that five crustacean species are normally captured, but only four were caught and photographed during the field survey period. Two rice field crabs (Somanniathelphus spp.) and one fresh water crab (Pottaman sp.) as well as the rice

Somanniathelphus spp - rice field crab

Table 9. Harvested crustacean species Rice Irrr. Nearby Photo No Scientific name English Name Family Local Name Pond Field Canal stream 14 Macrobrachium lanchesteri Riceland prawn Palaemonidae Koung na x x x x 15 Somanniathelphusa sp. Rice field crab Parathelphusidae Pou na x x x x 16 Somanniathelphusa sp. Rice field crab Parathelphusidae Pou houay x

17 Potaman sp. Fresh water crab Potamidae Pou leuang x x x x land prawn (Macropbrachium lanchesteri) were photographed. One rice field crab was only captured in the rice field whereas the remaining crabs and the prawn were found in all wetland types, see table 9. The most common method to catch the species is by hand, but also scoop baskets and scoop nets are used, see Annex 16. The species are mostly available from June to October. Compared to 10 years ago, the villagers reported that the number of fresh water crabs has slightly increased, whereas rice field crabs and rice land prawns have slightly decreased, see Annex 17. Pottaman sp. – fresh water crab

The four species are in high demand for various traditional dishes and also sold in the local market. The freshwater prawn is also dried and the rice field crabs are also fermented, see Annex 18.

5. TOOLS AND COLLECTION METHODS

Twenty different tools and collection methods were identified during the survey, which can be classified broadly into baskets, nets, traps and other tools.

In most cases 3–4 gears/tools were used for the same species. A shovel was used for some plants (e.g. oanthe, Naples garlic, and kaempheria) and the house cricket and a stick was used for collecting green algae and catch snakes. A torch was used for crabs, toads and frogs at night time when these are most active. All purpose trap

6. LOCATION OF SPECIES IN THE ECOSYSTEM

The assessment divided the interconnected aquatic ecosystem into four main wetland parts i.e. rice field, the trap ponds, the earthen canals, and the streams and rivers. Nearly all (95 percent) of the 95 species used by the three villages originate from the rice fields, followed by the earthen canals (71 percent), the trap ponds (54 percent) and the streams and rivers (38 percent). Nearly half of the 95 species could be found in all the aquatic ecosystems. The plant group was the most habitat- specialized group and only wild taro, Lycopodium and fern were growing in all wetland types.

7. TREND OF BIODIVERSITY

The villagers were asked to assess the current status of biodiversity of used organism by comparing the abundance ten years ago from each of the species collected.

Table 10. Level of species compared to 10 years ago Today compared to 10 year ago Group Much less Less Same More Much more Plants 10 15 7 6 1 Insects 9 5 7 Fish species 6 5 2 Amphibians 4 1 2 Reptiles 4 Molluscs 1 2 2 Crustaceans 1 3 Annelids 1 Total 17 37 17 22 1

The survey showed that particularly plant and fish species seem to exist in less abundance than 10 years ago, whereas the rest of the groups showed no clear trend. A total of 54 species were recorded to be less or much less abundant today, 17 species at the same level, and 23 species were more or much more abundant today compared to 10 years ago.

8. UTILIZATION OF AQUATIC SPECIES

All except three species were taken as food in various traditional food dishes throughout the Xieng Khouang Province. Six popular dishes are described below. a) Pa dek – fermented fish Fermented fish (Pa dek) is prepared using many fish species and the most common species is Pa bin/math /croaking gourami (Trichopsis vittata). Cleaned fish is dried and smoked on a stove, then mixed with big chilies and salty boiled water, kept in a tightly covered plastic box or jar for at least 2 months. The fermented product is very popular and eaten with sticky rice or added in soups and other dishes to give taste.

Croaking gourami Fermented fish

b) Or Pa douk/Pa dek – fish with fermented fish sauce Or Pa douk and Pa dek (fish sauce from fermented fish) is a common dish on the family menu. Cleaned and sliced fish are mixed with various ingredients, put into a cooking pot with little water and brought to a boil on a fire stove. Sliced eggplants, chilies, salt, and spices are then added together with onion and garlic. The fish goes with sticky or steamed rice.

Walking catfish Catfish with fermented fish sauce

c) Nam Pou – crab paste Crabs are used in numerous food dishes, although the most preferred is a crab sauce. Cleaned crabs and sliced lemon grass and young stalk of galangal are ground together. After adding water, the filtered sauce is kept for two days before adding salt and spices, and being boiled to preferred concentration. The crab sauce can be added as a flavor to papaya salad.

Rice field crab Preparation for crab paste

d) Jiao maeng da/maeng da na – Giant water bug paste The giant water bug is made into paste. Cleaned bugs are grilled with chilies, thereafter seasoned with salt and spices and eaten with sticky rice.

Giant water bug Giant water bug paste

e) Meng chi lor – fried cricket Fried crickets are considered as a very tasty dish at home and in local restaurants. The crickets are fried in oil. Sliced lemon grass, garlic, galangal and lemon leaves are added and the dish is flavoured with spices and salt. The mixture is stirred until the crickets are fried well.

Cricket Fried cricket

f) Phak nork – Centella salad Centella leaves are eaten fresh or fried in salads. Cut leaves are boiled and then ground. Fried garlic, ginger, peanuts, and pepper are added together with fresh sliced onion.

Centella Centella salad

9. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The upland paddy fields of the three surveyed villages (Naxaithong, Paen and Poungmanh) are rather scattered, but well-connected by small streams, irrigation and drainage canals and trap- ponds. Half of the total paddy rice area of some 200 ha was surveyed.

The assessment confirmed that the paddy rice-based aquatic ecosystem encompasses a diverse range of aquatic, semi-terrestrial and terrestrial niches of a huge number of species. Of these, 95 species of plants, insects, fish species, molluscs, reptiles, crustaceans, and one annelid were photographed and recorded as commonly used by the three villages, either for own consumption (92 organisms) or for sale in local markets (49 species). Three plant species (water primrose, Naples garlic and Chinese ginger) as well as a freshwater leech (Ping) were only used as medicine. Another six plant species, the apple snail and the black-spined toad were used both as food and medicine.

The number of plant species (39) used by the villages, however, is less than the number of 115 herbal species recorded by Kosaka et al, 2003, but they surveyed a larger area in Huaphan Province.

This study photographed and recorded 21 insects species, which is less than the at least 30 insects estimated to be sold in the markets of Vientiane (Nonaka et al. (2008). The total number of insects consumed in Lao PDR is probably much higher, but a comprehensive study is still to be carried out as many species have not yet been recorded and some may be new to science.

Uncertainty over the identification and correct scientific naming of species proved to be a major challenge during the study. One species often has several local names, while several species have the same name. In many cases specialized assistance is needed which is not readily available in the Lao PDR.

In comparison to a similar survey by Choulamany, 2005) carried out 10 years ago (82 species), the current survey photographed and reported similar numbers of crustaceans, amphibians, molluscs and reptiles species, less fish species (13 compared 22), and much more insect and plant species. On this basis one can conclude that the number of organisms have not significantly declined over the last 10 years, which is probably due to the fact that farmers in this area do not use pesticides. The declined number of fish species in our study is probably due to the fact that the earlier study was carried out by fish taxonomists in a different location. This is supported by the fact that the villagers did not mention a reduction of fish species during the last decade, but rather a high frequency of fish species.

An earlier survey in 2007 in two other villages (Ban Pung Bang and Ban Namechat village) of Xieng Khouang Province by Gregory, Thongdam and Somboun recorded a total of 50 aquatic species including 13 fish species, which is the same number as recorded by this survey. However, many of the local fish names differed between the two studies. The 2007 survey also noted a general depletion of natural aquatic resources and aquatic biodiversity, which in our survey is only confirmed in regards to numbers of fish captured and to some degree the number of plants collected.

In this study, one plant species (centella) is much more abundant nowadays. Some other species seems to have flourished but perhaps at the expense of other species. With little or no use of chemicals, there seems to be scope for more in-depth studies to understand the dynamics of the abundance and decline. Such a study could include non-edible species.

This survey revealed a relatively high number of the animal species to be found around the year (90 percent), whereas most of the plant species are seasonal. This is due to the fact that the villages are located close to rivers and streams and that most of the paddy fields are dry after the main harvest. Regarding the use of the species by the two ethnic minorities, the survey did not reveal any differences.

A total of 20 fishing gear and capture methods were recorded and several methods were used for the same species. Notably, illegal fishing methods were not recorded including use of explosives, electric devices and poison.

The survey confirmed that upland rural population in Laos make use of a large number of species to support their livelihood and the number adds to cultivated species and NTFPs. Following the rich biodiversity used by villagers, a great number of dishes are made mainly for immediate consumption (90 percent), but some species are also dried and smoked (all fish species and most crabs). All fish species (except the swamp eel) were also fermented.

10. FOLLOW-UP

Follow-up activities suggested by the villages included setting-up conservation zones and enforcement of local regulations in order to avoid illegal fishing. Domestication of certain species of frogs and training in rice-fish cultivation were also suggested.

More specific suggestions and needs related to the assessment include:  Identification of backstopping experts on specific animal and plants groups  Recording name of species during the survey, on-line to experts – to facilitate identification  More information on plants species and non-fish animals  More field reference material for on-the-spot identification  More instructions in photo-taking (flowering plants, background, etc.), although the large number of photos taken of the same species helped the process  Include some socio-economic aspects and agricultural input use  Involve national experts from the Institute of Traditional Medicine, LARReC and NoUL  Support training on aquatic biodiversity conservation and sustainable use including establishment of fish conservation zones  Increase awareness of negative aspects of illegal fishing and invasive species  Prepare technical reports/posters/leaflets

11 REFERENCES

Choulamany, X., 2005. Traditional use and availability of aquatic biodiversity in rice-based ecosystems, III. Xieng Khouang and Houa Phanh Provinces, Lao PDR, CD at ftp://ftp.fao.org/fi/CDrom/AqBiodCD20Jul2005/default.htm Gregory, R., Thongdam, P. & Somboun. 2007. Upland aquatic resources in Laos PDR. Their use, management and spacial dimensions in Xieng Khouang and Luang Prabang Provinces. LARReC. 68 pp. Kosaka, Y., Xayvongsa, L., Vilayphone, A., Chanthavong, H., Takeda, S. & Kato, M. 2013. Wild edible herbs in paddy fields and their sale in mixture in Houaphan Province, in the Lao Peoples’ Democratic Republic. Economic Botany 67(4), 2013, pp. 335–349. Nonaka, K., Silivay, S. and Boulidam. S. 2008. The biodiversity of Edible Insects in Vientiane, Kyoto, Japan Research Institute for Humans and Nature Phonvisay, S. 2013. An Introduction to the Fisheries in the Lao PDR, Mekong Development Series, No 6, Mekong River Commission. Phnom Penh, Cambodia, 64 pp.

11. SUGGESTED READINGS

FAO, 2003, Aquatic Resources for Nutrition and Livelihood, The Role of Aquatic Resources in the Livelihood of Rural People, RAP Publication, 2003/11, www.fao.org/docrep/004/AD454E/ad454e00.htm FAO Forestry Paper 171. 2013. Edible Insects, Future, prospects for food and feed security. Rome. 190 pp. http://www.fao.org/docrep/018/i3253e/i3253e00.htm Hanboonsong, Y. 2012. Edible insect recipes: edible insects for better nutrition and improved food security. Vientiane, FAO and the Government of Lao PDR Inthakoun, L. & Delang, C.O., 2008. Lao Flora: a Checklist of Plants found in Lao PDR with Scientific and Vernacular Names. 238 pp.

Lindsay, S. & Middleton, D.J., 2012 onwards. Ferns of Thailand, Laos and Cambodia. http://rbg- web2.rbge.org.uk/thaiferns/index.htm MRC, 2006, Identification of Freshwater Invertebrates of the Mekong River and Its Tributaries, http://zoo.sci.ku.ac.th/Research/boonsatean/Re_boonsoong4.pd

Annex 1. Usage of collected aquatic plants

Photo No Fresh Dried Medicine Sold Photo No Fresh Dried Medicine Sold

23 3 2 43 3 2

24 3 2 3 44 3 2 2

25 3 45 3 2

26 3 46 2

27 2 47 3 2

28 3 48 3 2

29 3 49 3

30 3 50 3 2

31 3 51 3

32 3 52 3 2

33 3 53 3

34 3 54 2

35 2 Crassocephalum crepidoides 55 2 2

36 3 2 56 3

37 2 57 2

38 3 58 2

39 3 59 2

40 3 3 60 2 2

41 3 61 2

42 3 2

1=Used if there is nothing else; 2= Used sometimes, 3=Used regularly, 4= Well liked.5= Considered a delicacy

Annex 2. Availability of used plants during the year and trend since last 10 years Since last Photo No Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 10 years 23 2 4 5 5 3 2 1

24 2 1 2 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 4 3 2

25 1 1 1 2 3 4 5 5 5 4 3 2

26 1 2 3 5 5 4 3 -1

27 1 2 1 1 2 3 4 5 5 4 2 1 -1

28 2 2 2 2 3 4 5 5 5 4 3 2 -1

29 1 2 3 5 5 3 -1

30 1 2 3 5 5 4 3 -1

31 3 4 5 5 4 -1

32 2 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 4 3 2 2 -2

33 1 1 1 2 3 4 5 5 5 4 3 2 -2

34 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 2 -2

35 2 3 4 4 3 2 1 1 -2

36 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 2 -2

37 1 1 1 2 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 1 -2

38 1 1 1 1 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 1 -1

39 3 2 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 -1

40 2 3 2 2 3 4 5 5 5 4 3 2 -2

41 3 3 3 3 4 5 5 5 5 4 4 3 -2

42 2 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 4 3 2 2 -2

43 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 2 1

44 1 2 3 4 4 4 5 5 5 3 2 1

45 3 4 4 4 4 3 1

46 4 4 4 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 4 4 1

47 2 2 2 2 2 2 4 4 3 2 2 2

48 1 1 2 3 4 4 4 3 2 1 -1

49 2 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1

50 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3

51 1 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 3 2 1 1 -1

52 3 3 3 4 4 2 2 2 2 3 3 3

53 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 3 3 3

54 3 3 4 3

55 2 2 2 3 3 3 4 4 4 3 2 2 -1

56 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 2 -1

57 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 -1

58 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 -1

59 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 2 1

60 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 -1

61 1 1 1 1 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 1 -2

1= Very little, 2= Some, 3= Frequent, 4= Many, 5= Plenty-2= Much less than Last column: -2, much less, -1= Less than, blank=same, +1= more than, +2= Much more than

Annex 3. Availability of insets during the year

Since last Photo No Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 10 years

62 1 2 3 3 3 3 2 1 1 -1

63 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 2 -1

64 1 1 1 1 2 3 3 3 3 2 1 1 -1

65 1 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 3 2 1 1 -1

66 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 4 4 3 2 1 -1

67 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 4 4 1 -1

68 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 3 2 2 2 2 1

69 1 1 1 2 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 1

70 1 1 1 1 2 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 1

71 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 4 1

72 1 1 1 1 2 3 3 3 3 2 2 1

73 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 1

74 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 4 3 1

75 2 2 3 4 4 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 -1

76 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 4 4 4 4

77 2 2 3 4 4 1

78 2 2 3 3 3 1

79 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3

80 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4

81 2 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 -1

82 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 4 4 3 2 1 -1

1= Very little, 2= Some, 3= Frequent, 4= Many, 5= Plenty-2= Much less than Last column: -2, much less, -1= Less than, blank=same, +1= more than, +2= Much more than

Annex 4. Methods of catching insects

Photo No Scientific name English name Local name

Catch Catch by hand Scoop basket Scoop net Triangular scoop net Beating w stick Gluing 62 Brachytrupes portentosus Cricket Maeng chi lith x

63 Cricket Maeng niao sa x x x

64 Acrida bicolor s.l. Acrida grasshopper Tak taen kha nhao x

65 Nepa cinera Water scorpion Maeng ta lo x x x

66 Lethocerus indicus Giant water bug Maeng da na x x x x

67 Acheta domestica House cricket Maeng chi lor

68 Gryllotalpa africana Mole cricket? Maeng xone x

69 Coleoptera Beetle larvae Maeng ngeuak pet noy x

70 Cybister fimbriolatus Diving beetle Maeng niang x x x

71 Aiolopus thalassinus Grasshopper Tak taen khiao x

72 Tesseratoma sp Stink bug Maeng khaeng x

73 Tenodera sinensis Chinese mantis Maeng ma x

74 Tettigonia viridissima Ensifera Maeng manh x

75 Chremistica sp Cacada sp Maeng chack chanh x x

76 Melanoplus differentialis sl Grasshopper Tak taen x

77 Conocephalus sp Green bush cricket Maeng kap kong khao x x

78 Melanoplus differentialis sl Green bush cricket Maeng na ngam x x

79 Holochlora nigrotympana Katydid Maeng hou nar x 80 Anisoptera sl Dragonfly larvae Maeng niao khoune x x x

81 Bush cricket Maeng kanh cho x

82 Dolomedes sp. Water spider Maeng moum nam x x x

Annex 5. Usage of insets

Photo No Scientific name English name Local name Fried Sold

62 Brachytrupes portentosus Cricket Maeng chi lith 3

63 Cricket Maeng niao sa 3

64 Acrida bicolor s.l. Acrida grasshopper Tak taen kha nhao 3

65 Nepa cinera Water scorpion Maeng ta lo 3

66 Lethocerus indicus Giant water bug Maeng da na 3

67 Acheta domestica House cricket Maeng chi lor 3 2

68 Gryllotalpa africana Mole cricket? Maeng xone 3 2

69 Coleoptera Beetle larvae Maeng ngeuak pet noy 3

70 Cybister fimbriolatus Diving beetle Maeng niang 3 2

71 Aiolopus thalassinus Grasshopper Tak taen khiao 3

72 Tesseratoma sp Stink bug Maeng khaeng 2

73 Tenodera sinensis Chinese mantis Maeng ma 2

74 Tettigonia viridissima Ensifera Maeng manh 3

75 Chremistica sp Cacada sp Maeng chack chanh 2 2

76 Melanoplus differentialis sl Grasshopper Tak taen/tene noy/noi 3 2

77 Conocephalus sp Green bush cricket Maeng kap kong khao 3

78 Melanoplus differentialis sl Green bush cricket Maeng na ngam 3

79 Holochlora nigrotympana Katydid Maeng hou nar 2

80 Anisoptera sl Dragonfly larvae Maeng niao khoune 3

81 Bush cricket Maeng kanh cho 2

82 Dolomedes sp. Water spider Maeng moum nam 3

1=Used if there is nothing else; 2= Used sometimes, 3=Used regularly

Annex 6. Usage of fish species

Fer- Photo No Scientific name English name Local name Fried Dried Smoked Sale mented

1 Systomus orphoides Javaen Barb/Common spottedPa pokbarb 4 1 2 3 2

2 Wallago attu Mully catfish Pa khao 4 1 2 3 2

3 Channa gachua Dwarf snakehead Pa kan/ kang 4 1 2 2 2

4 Channa striata Common snakehead Pa kor/ khoh 4 1 2 2 2

5 Trichopsis vittata Croaking gourami? Pa bin 2 1 2 4 2

6 Oreochromis niloticus Nile tilapia Pa nin 4 1 3 2

7 Betta spendens Siamese fighting fish Pa kat 4 2 2 3 2

8 Cyprinus carpio Common carb Pa nai 4 2 3 2 2

9 Monopterus albus Swamp eel Ian 4 2 3 2

10 Opsarius pulchellus Mackarel barb Pa kham/khum 4 2 3 2 2

11 Carassius sp. Carssian carb Pa faek 4 2 2 3 2

12 Esomos metallicus Striped flying carb Pa siew 4 2 3 2 2

13 Clarias batrachus Walking catfish Pa duk/douk 3 1 2 2 2

1=Used if there is nothing else; 2= Used sometimes, 3=Used regularly

Annex 7. Availability of fish species during the year

Since Photo No Jan Feb \Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec last 10 years 1 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 5 5 4 2 1 -2

2 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 5 5 3 2 1 -2

3 2 2 2 2 3 4 5 5 5 4 3 2 -2

4 2 2 2 2 2 3 4 5 5 4 3 2 -2

5 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 2 -2

6 2 2 2 2 3 4 5 5 5 4 3 2 -2

7 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 2 1

8 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 -1

9 1 1 1 1 2 4 4 4 4 3 2 1 -1

10 1 1 1 1 2 3 3 3 3 2 2 1 1

11 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 -1

12 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 -1

13 2 2 2 2 3 4 5 5 5 4 3 2 -1

1= Very little, 2= Some, 3= Frequent, 4= Many, 5= Plenty-2= Much less than Last column: -2, much less, -1= Less than, blank=same, +1= more than, +2= Much more than

Annex 8. Preferred fishing tools

Photo No Scientific name English name Local name

Scoop basket Scoop net Triangular scoop net 1 Systomus orphoides Javaen Barb/CommonPa spotted pok barb x x x

2 Wallago attu Mully catfish Pa khao x x x

3 Channa gachua Dwarf snakehead Pa kan/ kang x x x

4 Channa striata Common snakehead Pa kor/ khoh x x x

5 Trichopsis vittata Croaking gourami? Pa bin x x x

6 Oreochromis niloticus Nile tilapia Pa nin x x x

7 Betta spendens Siamese fighting fish Pa kat x x x

8 Cyprinus carpio Common carb Pa nai x x x

9 Monopterus albus Swamp eel Ian x x

10 Opsarius pulchellus Mackarel barb Pa kham/khum x x x

11 Carassius sp. Carssian carb Pa faek x x x

12 Esomos metallicus Striped flying carb Pa siew x x x

13 Clarias batrachus Walking catfish Pa duk/douk x x

Annex 9. Common tools for catching fish and other organisms Rice Photo No English name Local name Canal Pond field 1 Triangular scoop net Sone/Xone x x x

2 Scoop basket (all purpose) Kheng, kheung x x

3 Scoop net Sa Ving x x x

4 Cast net Hae/Hai x

5 Funnel basket trap (Eel) Xai pa ian x x x

6 Gillnet Mong x

7 Pole and line Bet thoy x x x

8 Funnel basket trap Xai toum x x

9 Trap Xai pa nai x

10 Plunge basket Soum pa x x x

11 Fine masked net Moung x x

12 Set pole and line Bet pack x x x

Annex 10. Main season of catching amphibians

Since last Photo No Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 10 years 89 3 2 2 2 4 4 4 3 2 2 2 2

90 2 4 4 4 3 2 1 1 91 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 3 -1

92 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 -1 93 3 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1

94 2 2 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 -1

95 1 1 2 3 4 4 4 3 2 2 1 1 -1

1= Very little, 2= Some, 3= Frequent, 4= Many, 5= Plenty-2= Much less than Las t column: -2, much less, -1= Less than, blank=same, +1= more than, +2= Much more than

Annex 11. Usage of collected amphibians

Medi- Photo No Scientific name English name Lao name Fresh Dried Smoked Sold cine

89 Microhyla heymonsi Dark-sided chorus frog Kiet chi mae 4 2 3 2

90 Hoplobatrachus rugulosus Chinese edible frog Kop na 4 3

91 Limnonectes kuhlii complex Large headed frog complex Kop hoy 4 2 2 3

92 Rana macrodactyla Guangdong frog Kiet ka yo 3 2 2

93 Polypedates leucomystax complex Common tree frog complex Kiet ka path 3 2 2

94 Bufo melanostictus Black-spined toad/ Asian common toadKhan khak 2 2

95 Fejervarya limnocharis Rice field frog, Asian grass frog Kied/t chi mo 3 2 2

1=Used if there is nothing else; 2= Used sometimes, 3=Used regularly

Annex 12. Method of catching amphibians

Photo No Scientific name English name Local Name

Catch Catch by hand Scoop basket Scoop net Triangular scoop net fishing hook Cast net Torch 89 Microhyla heymonsi Dark-sided chorus frog Kiet chi mae x

90 Hoplobatrachus rugulosus Chinese edible frog Kop na x x x x x

91 Limnonectes kuhlii complex Large headed frog complex Kop hoy x x x x x

92 Rana macrodactyla Guangdong frog Kiet ka yo x x x x x

93 Polypedates leucomystax complex Common tree frog complex Kiet ka path x x

94 Bufo melanostictus Black-spined toad/ Asian common toad Khan khak x x x x

95 Fejervarya limnocharis Rice field frog, Asian grass frog Kied/t chi mo x x x x x

Annex 13. Main season for catching reptiles

Since last 10 Photo No Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec years

83 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 3 2 2

84 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

85 2 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 3 3 2 2

86 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 -1

87 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3

88 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2 3

1= Very little, 2= Some, 3= Frequent, 4= Many, 5= Plenty-2= Much less than Last column: -2, much less, -1= Less than, blank=same, +1= more than, +2= Much more than

Annex 14. Method of catching reptiles

Photo No Scientific name English name Local name

Catch Catch by hand Scoop basket Scoop net Triangular scoop net fishing hook Fill net 83 Mabuya multifasciata Four-striped skink Chi koune x x x

84 Rhabophis subminiatus Red-necked keelback Ngou khaw daeng x

85 Xenochrophis piscator complex Checkered keelback Ngou pa x

86 Hirudinaria sp. Freshwater leech Ping x x

87 Ptyas korros Indo-Chinese rat snake Ngou sing x x x

88 Calotes versicolor Oriental garden lizard Kar pom khang x x

Annex 15. Usage of captured reptiles Medi- Photo No Scientific name English name Local name Fried Sold cine 83 Mabuya multifasciata Four-striped skink Chi koune 2

84 Rhabophis subminiatus Red-necked keelback Ngou khaw daeng 2

85 Xenochrophis piscator complex Checkered keelback Ngou pa 3

86 Hirudinaria sp. Freshwater leech Ping 2

87 Ptyas korros Indo-Chinese rat snake Ngou sing 3 2

88 Calotes versicolor Oriental garden lizard Kar pom khang 2

1=Used if there is nothing else; 2= Used sometimes , 3=Used regularly 29

Annex 16. Main season for catching molluscs

Since last Photo No Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 10 years

18 1 1 1 1 2 3 4 4 4 3 1 1 -2

19 1 1 1 1 2 4 4 4 4 4 2 1 1

20 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 2 1

21 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 -1

22 1 1 1 2 3 4 4 5 4 2 1 1 -1

1= Very little, 2= Some, 3= Frequent, 4= Many, 5= Plenty-2= Much less than Last column: -2, much less, -1= Less than, blank=same, +1= more than, +2= Much more than

Annex 17. Method of catching molluscs

Photo No Scientific name English name Local name

Catch Catch by hand Scoop basket Scoop net 18 Pila sp Apple Snail Hoy pak kouang x x

19 Pilsbryoconcha exilis "Freshwater bivalve" Hoy kii x

20 Achatina fulica Giant African land snail Hoy lai x

21 Melanoides tuberculata sl Red-rimmed melania Hoy lek chane x x x

22 Viviparidae River snail Hoy noy/noi x x x

Annex 18. Usage of captured molluscs

Photo No Scientific name English name Local name Food Sold

18 Pila sp Apple Snail Hoy pak kouang 3

19 Pilsbryoconcha exilis "Freshwater bivalve" Hoy kii 3 2

20 Achatina fulica Giant African land snail Hoy lai 2

21 Melanoides tuberculata slRed-rimmed melania Hoy lek chane 4 2

22 Viviparidae River snail Hoy noy/noi 3 2

1=Used if there is nothing else; 2= Used sometimes, 3=Used regularly

1= Very little, 2= Some, 3= Frequent, 4= Many, 5= Plenty-2= Much less than Last column: -2, much less, -1= Less than, blank=same, +1= more than, +2= Much more than

Annex 16. Main season for catching crustacean

Since last Photo No Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 10 years

14 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 3 2 2 1

15 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 4 4 4 3 2 1 16 2 2 2 2 3 4 3 3 3 2 2 2 1

17 3 3 3 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 4 3 -1 1= Very little, 2= Some, 3= Frequent, 4= Many, 5= Plenty-2= Much less than Last column: -2, much less, -1= Less than, blank=same, +1= more than, +2= Much more than

Annex 17. Method of catching crustacean

Photo No Scientific name English name Local name

Catch Catch by hand Scoop basket Scoop net Triangular scoop net Torch 14 Macrobrachium lanchesteri Riceland prawn Koung na x x x x

15 Somanniathelphusa sp. Rice field crab Pou na x x x x

16 Somanniathelphusa sp. Rice field crab Pou houay x x x x x

17 Potaman sp. Fresh water crab Pou leuang x x x x

Annex 18. Usage of captured crustacean

Photo No Scientific name English name Local name Fried Sold

14 Macrobrachium lanchesteri Riceland prawn Koung na 3 2

15 Somanniathelphusa sp. Rice field crab Pou na 3 2

16 Somanniathelphusa sp. Rice field crab Pou houay 3 2

17 Potaman sp. Fresh water crab Pou leuang 4 2

1=Used if there is nothing else; 2= Used sometimes, 3=Used regularly

Further information: Amphone Chanthavang, ABP Coordinator, Phoukhout, DAFO, Phoukhout District, [email protected] Pheng Souvanthong, NPC Agro-biodiversity Project, [email protected] Ole S. Pedersen, CTA, Agrobiodiversity Project, [email protected] FAO Representation, Vientiane, [email protected] Chitlatda Keomoungchanh, Programme Analyst, UNDP, [email protected]