by Phan Le Giang and Mai Lam

Blessed with primeval forests, clean sea and mysterious caves, Cat Ba National Park boasts rich plant and animal life.

Established in March 1986 by a premier's decision, the park is the only one in Viet Nam to feature 9,800ha of forests and 5,400ha of sea. Initial studies suggest the island is home to 620 species of flora and fauna.

In the heart of the park, dozens of mountain peaks cradle a 3ha pond. Fresh-water fish, crabs and frogs live in the pond, which is shaded by 15m tall trees. Their roots grow above the water and dominate the vegetation around the pond.

The rare, reddish algae on the pond is of interest to biologists. Birds sing as they compete for spots in the trees during the dry season.

At the foot of the limestone mountains, Kim Giao (podocarpus fleurii) attracts the attention of scientists and residents alike. The plant's colour changes when in contact with toxic substances harmful to humans.

Sea water and wind created marvellous caves at the foot of the mountains. Archaeologists believe the Bac Son culture, an ancient people used to live there about 6,000 years ago.

What attracts scientists to the island the most are the white-headed monkeys, a species of primate found nowhere else in the world. They can be seen swinging on rugged cliffs near the coast on a beautiful day.

About 2,000ha of mangrove forests are scattered along the island's coast. They have a high economic and biological value. Coral reefs in the shallow sea at the foot of the mountains are biologically diverse and attract the attention of scientists and local officials. Dozens of tiny islands dot the sea, forming a huge natural aquarium for numerous fish near the town of Cat Ba.

Nguyen Phien Nguy, director of the park, says scientists from Germany, Japan, France, South Korea and Britain visit the park. They spare no expense when they speak of its biological value, he says.

Many scientists argue the area should be recognised as a biological reserve because it meets all of UNESCO's requirements.

Like other reserves in the world, Cat Ba National Park is organised into three zones: core, buffer and transition zones. The 6,000ha core zone features tropical rain forests and coral reefs. It's strictly protected and free of human habitation.

In the buffer zone, residents may cultivate fruit, while the transition zone permits agriculture and fisheries.