The first record of living “Fossil” species (Laonestes aenigmanus) in Phong Nha - Ke Bang, Quang Binh province, Vietnam

Researchers confirm the presence of Laonestes aenigmamus, a living 'fossil' species thought extinct since the Miocene, in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Vietnam. This discovery extends its known range from Hin Nam No National Biodiversity Conservation Area (Lao PDR) to central Vietnam, marking it as the sole surviving member of an ancient rodent family. The study identified four specimens through morphological and skull analysis, proposing the Vietnamese name 'Truong son Rat' (Annamite Rat). Threats include hunting and forest destruction, with urgent conservation action recommended due to its limited distribution and ecological significance.

Dang, N. X., Nghia, N. X., Ha, N. M., Minh, L. D., Luong, N. D., & Tri, D. H. (2012). The first record of living “Fossil” species (Laonestes aenigmanus) in Phong Nha - Ke Bang, Quang Binh province, Vietnam. Tap Chi Sinh Hoc, 34(1). https://doi.org/10.15625/0866-7160/v34n1.668