Biology Seminar

Overview

Ba Vì National Park is often described as the “Green Treasure” of Hanoi and is one of the major centers of biodiversity in Vietnam. The most distinctive feature of Ba Vì’s biology is the pronounced variation of organisms with elevation (from the foothills to the peak at nearly 1,300m). Below 400m: tropical moist forest (multi-layered canopy, large trees, and dense lianas). Above 1,000m: subtropical forest (cool climate, mist-covered, with mosses, ferns, and coniferous trees)..

Characteristics

The plant system in Ba Vì is extremely diverse, with over 2,181 species of higher plants (scientific data). **Green cypress (Calocedrus macrolepis):** the “symbolic” tree of Ba Vì. This is an ancient species listed in the Red Book, with highly fragrant wood. The old-growth green cypress population in Ba Vì is one of the few remaining natural populations in northern Vietnam. Thanks to high humidity, Ba Vì is a paradise for tree ferns (ancient plants dating back to the dinosaur era) and mosses growing on rocks. It is also renowned as the “herbal treasure” of the Dao people, with over 500 rare medicinal plants (such as Golden Flower Tea, Fairy Flowers, and Lion’s Whisker). This represents a strong cultural and biological highlight of the region..

Although large mammals are no longer abundant, the small animal life in Ba Vi is incredibly vibrant. The insect population is very large (nearly 600 species). Notable species include: Butterflies (diverse colors), Stick insects (camouflaged like twigs), Praying mantises, Cicadas, and various species of beetles (Pinchhorn beetles).

Amphibians and reptiles are equally diverse, notably tree frogs (living on leaves) and endemic frog species of the northern mountainous region. Flying lizards and skinks are also commonly found along the streams...

Activity

  • Overview Seminar on the Biology of the Ba Vì Region.
  • Field practice in the forest, observing changes in vegetation with increasing elevation.
  • Searching for and photographing samples of ferns, mosses, and fungi.
  • Using a magnifying glass to examine the surfaces of leaves and tree bark.
  • Working in groups to present a specimen found, including its name, characteristics, and habitat.
Duration: 2-3 hours
*The seminar and fieldwork are conducted by lecturers or professors from the organizing school, or by staff from Ba Vì National Park.