Tràm Chim National Park (Vietnamese: Vườn quốc gia Tràm Chim) is located in the Plain of Reeds within the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. The park was established to help recover a damaged wetland and to protect many rare bird species, including the sarus crane (Grus antigone sharpii), which is listed on the IUCN Red List. Additionally, the park is recognized as an important wetland of international significance under the Ramsar Convention.

Ecology

The Plain of Reeds was naturally a seasonal wetland that had shallow water for three to six months each year. Fires happened every year during the dry season. The main types of plants included Melaleuca cajuputi trees, grasses, and other grass-like plants such as sedges and Eleocharis. People started changing the environment in the 18th century by growing rice.

During the Vietnam War, the area was drained and burned for military reasons. This process made the soil very acidic and difficult for plants to grow. Fires also became more common. In 1985, efforts began to restore the natural water flow, which helped bring back wildlife.

After restoration, animals that once lived in the area returned, including birds like the sarus crane and Bengal florican, fish such as the giant barb, and grasses like Oryza rufipogon. The fish are important for providing food to the local people.

Park history

In 1985, the provincial government created Tram Chim as Tram Chim Afforestation and Fishery Company. Its purpose was to plant Melaleuca cajuputi trees, use water resources, and protect the Plain of Reeds area. In 1986, sarus cranes were discovered in the area. In 1991, Tram Chim became a provincial-level natural reserve to protect the cranes. In 1994, the reserve was upgraded to a national natural reserve by the decision Circular 4991/KGVX. The protected area covers 7,500 hectares (29 square miles). In September 1998, the area was adjusted to 7,588 hectares (29.30 square miles). In 1998, the area became Tram Chim National Park through the government decision 253/1998/QĐ dated December 29, 1998.