Mekong

Chamdo Mekong

Phou si - Mekong River - Luang Prabang Laos プーシーの丘、メコン川 ラオス・ルアンプラバーン DSCF6787

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Nam Ou River confluence in Mekong Laos

Mekong floating homes

Mekong Delta river -a

2009-08-30 09-03 Luang Prabang 020 Mekong

Mekong River

The Mekong River is a trans-boundary river in Southeast Asia. It is the world's twelfth longest river and the third longest in Asia, following the Yangtze River and the Yellow River. Originating in the Tibetan Plateau in the Sanjiangyuan National Nature Reserve, it runs through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, covering a distance of about 4,350 kilometers (2,703 miles) before emptying into the South China Sea.

Geography

The Mekong basin is one of the richest areas of biodiversity in the world. Only the Amazon boasts a higher level of biodiversity. The river flows through a wide range of ecosystems, from the frozen waters on the Tibetan Plateau to the lush, tropical forests in the south. The Mekong River Basin is also home to a vast array of wildlife, including several endangered species such as the Irrawaddy dolphin, the giant catfish, and the Siamese crocodile.

History

The Mekong River has been a significant trade route in Southeast Asia for centuries. It has shaped the culture and economy of the region through the ages. The river's name is derived from the Lao and Thai language 'Mae Nam Khong', which is a combination of the words 'Mae' meaning mother and 'Nam' meaning water, with 'Khong' being a derivative of the Sanskrit word for Ganges, 'Ganga'.

Economy

The economies of the Mekong countries are heavily dependent on the river. It provides water for agriculture, fisheries, and transportation routes that are vital for trade and communication. The river is also a crucial source of hydroelectric power. The construction of dams on the Mekong and its tributaries has been a subject of controversy due to their impact on the environment and the livelihoods of people dependent on the river.

Environmental Concerns

The Mekong River faces several environmental threats, including deforestation, overfishing, and pollution. The construction of dams has also led to significant ecological changes, affecting the natural flow of the river, sediment transport, and aquatic habitats. Climate change poses an additional threat, with rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns impacting the river's flow and the health of its ecosystems.

Cultural Significance

The Mekong River holds great cultural significance for the people living along its banks. It is central to many festivals and traditions in the region. The river is also an important symbol in literature and art, representing life and fertility.

See Also

• List of rivers by length
• Water resources management in the Mekong River Basin
• Mekong River Commission