Prioritising natural heritage: Evaluating distribution, threats, and conservation needs of species recovery targets in Vietnam

Our study addresses the urgent need to identify and prioritise threatened species in Vietnam for conservation and recovery. With a focus on Vulnerable, Endangered, and Critically Endangered species with high levels of endemicity (> 50% of their global range occurs in Vietnam), we conducted a comprehensive analysis of key species for conservation prioritisation, IUCN Green Status Assessment, and recovery strategies within the Vietnamese landscape. By integrating data on provincial hotspots and protected areas as key conservation sites, we established a robust framework to assess key species richness, threats, and conservation needs. We identified 203 key species across 12 taxonomic classes, establishing a viable list of wildlife recovery priorities. Habitat loss and exploitation were identified as primary threats to key species; alarmingly, only 38% of these key species had > 50% of their range within protected areas, emphasizing urgent conservation needs that extend beyond current protected area boundaries. Our findings hold significance for guiding conservation strategies, resource allocation, and policy decisions in relation to Vietnam's National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) and inform measurable species prioritisation goals under Target 4 of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). By pinpointing species and regions that require immediate attention, our study provides essential guidance for policymakers, conservationists, and resource managers/donors. Acting on these insights will enhance the effectiveness of conservation efforts and ensure the long-term sustainability of wildlife as a vital natural heritage.