Mangrove Forest Species in Cambodia: A Scoping Review

Abstract Mangrove forests along Cambodia’s southwestern coastline support a diverse assemblage of plant species (true mangroves and associated taxa) and host rich faunal communities that provide essential ecosystem services, including fisheries nursery habitat, coastal protection and carbon sequestration. This scoping review synthesizes published literature, regional guidebooks, national and NGO reports (2000–2024) to: (1) compile current knowledge of mangrove plant species recorded in Cambodia, (2) summarize recent biodiversity inventory results for important sites, (3) describe spatial patterns and principal threats affecting species composition, and (4) identify research and conservation priorities. Across syntheses and national accounts, Cambodia’s mangrove flora includes roughly 30–37 true mangrove species plus numerous associates; the relative dominance of Rhizophora, Avicennia, Sonneratia, Ceriops, Bruguiera and Nypa is consistent across sites. Recent large-scale surveys (e.g., Peam Krasop and Koh Kapik) documented exceptional faunal richness (~700 species recorded) underscoring the biodiversity value of intact mixed-species stands. Urgent priorities include producing a georeferenced national species checklist (with voucher specimens), expanding standardized floristic inventories, and implementing species-appropriate restoration and protection measures to conserve remaining diverse stands. Keywords: Mangrove forests; mangrove plant species; biodiversity inventory; true mangroves and associates; species composition; Cambodia; coastal ecosystems; conservation priorities; floristic surveys; mangrove restoration