Southeast Asian Rainforests And Mangroves

Dipterocarp forests, orangutans and tangled coastal mangroves.

The islands and mainland of Southeast Asia hold ancient, tall rainforests and some of the world's richest mangrove coasts. Borneo and Sumatra are the best known for orangutans and elephants.

Forest and shoreline are closely linked by rivers and tides.

The Landscape

Giant dipterocarp trees dominate lowland forests, often fruiting together in irregular mast years. Along the coast, mangroves grow in salty tidal mud, protecting shores and acting as nurseries for fish.

Who Lives Here

Orangutans, Proboscis Monkeys, Helmeted Hornbills and Sumatran Tigers live in the forests and mangroves, and the giant Rafflesia flower is among the largest in the world. Mudskippers and saltwater crocodiles live among the mangroves.

Through The Year

Many places are warm and humid all year, with wetter and drier seasons set by the monsoon. Fruiting seasons draw hornbills and primates to the same trees.

Pressures And Care

Forest is cleared for oil palm, pulp and timber, mangroves for shrimp farms, and hunting and the pet trade take many animals. Choosing certified products and supporting protected areas helps.

Visiting Well

Choose ethical, guided visits, stay quiet near primates, and avoid any attraction that offers contact with wild animals.

Look for

Bornean Orangutan
Proboscis Monkey
Helmeted Hornbill
Rafflesia
Mudskipper

Often a good time to visit: March, April, July, August. Conditions vary from year to year and place to place.

Related habitats

Woodland · Coastal

More in Asia

Himalaya And Tibetan Plateau · Western Ghats And The Terai · East Asian Temperate Forests