The blind cavefish found in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park (Photo by Tienphong)
The information was given by Pham Hong Thai, director of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in the central province of Quang Tri.
This sightless fish has adapted to complete darkness, dwelling deep within caves where no light can penetrate the ancient limestone formed over hundreds of millions of years. It has been provisionally named the blind cavefish.
Lacking vision, they navigate by sensing water pressure and movement through sensitive barbels and fins, a typical adaptation of species evolved in lightless, isolated habitats.
In Vietnam, blind cavefish have been found in Son Doong, Va, and Hung Thong caves. In Laos, similar traces have been detected in the Xe Bang Fai Cave.
Scientists are analysing the DNA to determine whether the fish are one species or two distinct lineages. If confirmed as a single species, it would provide strong biological evidence of the ecological link between the two heritage sites and a solid basis for cross-border conservation.
