World · Vietnam Bureau
Ancient forest thrives in Vietnam's massive underground sinkhole
Scientists have documented a sprawling primeval forest flourishing at the bottom of a 120-meter-deep sinkhole in central Vietnam's Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. The recently discovered geological formation spans more than two hectares and harbors unique flora and fauna isolated from the surface world.
LSN Vietnam ·
The sinkhole, located within Quang Tri Province's renowned karst landscape, represents a significant ecological discovery for Vietnam's scientific community. Its extreme depth and expansive floor area have created a sheltered microenvironment where ancient plant species and wildlife have developed largely undisturbed by human activity.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its dramatic limestone formations and complex cave systems. The newly revealed sinkhole adds to the region's geological significance, showcasing the dynamic processes that have shaped the central Vietnamese landscape over millions of years.
The primeval forest ecosystem within the sinkhole has adapted to the unique conditions created by its isolated setting. Researchers are examining how the dense vegetation and animal populations have evolved in this enclosed environment, which receives limited direct sunlight due to its extreme depth.
The discovery underscores Vietnam's rich natural heritage and the importance of protecting such geological formations. Scientists indicate that the sinkhole may contain species previously unknown to researchers and provide valuable insights into prehistoric ecosystems that once covered the region.