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Site Classification and Ecological Solutions for Mangrove Forest Development in the Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve of Vietnam

  • Date of declaration:2026-01-05
Do Quy Manh,Nguyen Quoc Huy,Nguyen Minh Duc,Ha Tra My, Nguyen Thanh Luan, Pham Ngoc Tu
Year
2025
Key Words
mangroves, salt-marsh, salt-marsh site classification, planting techniques
Abstract

The classification of mangrove sites within the Red River Delta Inter-Provincial Wetland Biosphere Reserve provides an essential scientific foundation for the effective and sustainable management of coastal mangrove ecosystems. The primary objective of this study is to apply a standardized mangrove site classification framework to identify suitable species for mangrove planting, restoration and conservation in coastal areas. The study employs a quantitative approach incorporatin key mangrove site classification indicators: sub-soil type, soil layer thickness, sub- terrain type, rainfall, and forest vegetation status. The resulting framework was applied to evaluate previous studies on mangrove site classification both globally and within Vietnam. Changes in the mangrove forest area within the study area from 1990 to 2025 were assessed. Notably, Hung Yen Province experienced substantial mangrove loss between 1990 and 2005, with more than 4,768 hectares converted to aquaculture. Currently, the alluvial area is 9,780.6 ha, of which 7,411.4 ha is mangrove forest. Based on site classification criteria, the area has been categorized into three levels of suitability for mangrove development: favorable (4,491.3 ha), moderate (6,338.83 ha), and difficult (4,809.87 ha). These assessments provide a foundation for proposing solutions for mangrove forest development suitable to site conditions.