Drowning flooded forest

Flooding plays a crucial role in shaping the flooded forest ecosystem, influencing the floodplain habitat's structure, quality, and function. However, upstream hydropower and water resource infrastructure in the Mekong River threaten the downstream sensitive ecosystem by altering the flood-pulse system, particularly in the flooded forest and its surrounding protected area. According to Kummu and Sarkkula's study (2008), an increase in water levels during the dry season could lead to a 17-40% expansion of open water, resulting in permanent forest inundation and reducing ecosystem productivity. Conversely, a decrease in water levels during the wet season may cause a 7-16% reduction in the seasonally inundated floodplain area, disturbing the migratory patterns and spawning grounds for fish (Pantulu, 1986).

A sufficiently large flooded forest ecosystem is essential feeding and spawning grounds for fish, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem and supporting aquatic biodiversity. Taking a practical approach, implementing measures to prevent additional degradation, like revegetation and maintaining flood-pulse in key areas, is crucial to the restoration efforts in the flooded forest.