AKP Phnom Penh, March 14, 2025 --

A groundbreaking study published on PeerJ indicates that an estimated 51 rare Asian elephants are in Cambodia’s northern plains.

PeerJ, an open-access peer-reviewed scientific mega journal covering research in the biological and medical sciences, published the report on Mar. 13.

According to the Fauna & Flora Cambodia Programme’s press release, the study was conducted through its collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, using non-invasive genetic sampling techniques across Prey Lang, Preah Roka, and Chhaeb Wildlife Sanctuaries.

The genetic research was carried out at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, with technical support from the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland.

The inhabitant of the Asian elephants in the area implies high genetic diversity, which is a critical factor for their long-term survival.

The findings underscore the potential of the extended landscape of Cambodia's Prey Lang wildlife sanctuary in becoming a national stronghold for Asian elephants, significantly contributing to Cambodia’s biodiversity conservation goals.

By Phal Sophanith