The Vietnamese government needs to make more efforts in managing alien species, which are growing at a fast pace and threatening the ecosystem and biodiversity, local experts said at a recent meeting in Hanoi. An official survey showed that up to 85% of managers working at local customs and environmental branches lack the knowledge to identify these non-native species, Mai Hong Quan from the Biodiversity Conservation Department under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The findings also showed around 7% of environmental managers at the central level do not understand rules on managing these species, he added. Meanwhile, experts said that the key to control the invasion of alien species is early detection and extermination. Exotic species could affect biodiversity, degrade habitats, alter native genetic diversity and sicken native species; further harming endangered plants and animals. Participants proposed the ministry develop plans to upgrade the skills of alien species managers at both central and local levels. According to Deputy Director of the Vietnam Environment Administration Nguyen The Dong, these species are believed to be the second biggest threat to the national ecosystem. They enter the country via many channels of water, air, goods and trans-border animal transport. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed all alien species uncovered in Vietnam on the 100 of the World’s Worst Invasive Alien Species. (Vietnam News Sept 23, danviet.vn Sept 18)
