Boeng Chhmar Ramsar Site, located within Cambodia’s Tonle Sap floodplain, spans over 28,000 hectares and represents one of the largest relatively undisturbed wetland systems in the Lower Mekong region. The site consists of a permanent lake surrounded by a complex network of creeks, seasonally flooded forests, and grasslands, all shaped by the Tonle Sap–Mekong flood pulse. These dynamic hydrological processes drive high ecological productivity and support significant biodiversity, including large breeding colonies of waterbirds such as storks, pelicans, and adjutants, with several species occurring at globally important population thresholds. 

 

The site is critical for local livelihoods, with over 3,000 people across floating villages relying heavily on small-scale fishing and fish processing for income and food security. Boeng Chhmar provides essential ecosystem services, particularly fisheries production and flood regulation. However, the site faces increasing pressures from illegal fishing, land encroachment, pollution, invasive species, and dry-season fires, which threaten habitat quality and ecosystem function. Strengthening ecosystem-based fisheries management, improving site protection, and promoting diversified livelihood options present key opportunities to enhance resilience while safeguarding the ecological integrity and ecosystem services of this globally significant wetland.