水辺の幸

Mizube no Sachi

Gift of Waterfront
Illustrated Handbook of
Edible Plants and Animals Indigenous to the Mekong River Basin

Nagao Natural Environment Foundation

Authors
Masahide Kubota
Shusei Saito
San’ei Ichikawa
Minemitsu Kaneko
Satoko Fuchigami
Akinobu Imamura
Koji Ishibashi*
Japan Wildlife Research Center (JWRC)
3-3-7 Koto-bashi, Sumida-ku Tokyo Japan, 130-8606*Present address
Tokyo Colledge of Environment (TCE)
3-3-7 Koto-bashi, Sumida-ku Tokyo Japan, 130-0022

Published by
Nagao Natural Environment Foundation
702 Kotobashi Bldg. 3-3-7 Koto-bashi Sumida-ku Tokyo Japan, 130-002

Copyright © 2015 Nagao Natural Environment Foundation, Tokyo, JapanAll right reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system ortransmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording orotherwise, without the prior written permission of the publishers and copyright holder, Nagao
Natural Environment Foundation.

Mizube no Sachi

Nature's blessing of food for the living things around riparian areas

Since 2007, our team has done research and technical transfers on conservation of local naturalenvironment in Mekong river basin. Research area is the basin in Laos, Thailand, Cambodia andVietnam. To this day, people in this region depends largely their food source on the riparian lives
in paddy fields, rivers, and lakes. In local markets, one sees abundance of small aquatic creatures
such as freshwater fish and crabs, and both riparian and land insects and plants. They are also
served on daily meals of local people. Such living resource is differentiated from commerciallyharvested sources since they do not require large amount of time, labor, and monetary investment inorder to harvest them. Therefore they may not be categorized as a means of earning a living;
however, they are essential part of people’s daily lives in terms of providing food.
The staple of people along Mekong River is rice, and field of rice paddy is a common landscape inthis area. Many of the non-professionally harvested living sources depend their habitat on paddy
field around villages and nearby water sources. This landscape and concept of coexistence of lives
are familiar with the study team, which is from Japan. Japan is known in ancient time, as “countryof abundant rice crop”. Through the study, we have reconfirmed the uniqueness of rice paddy
from natural the resources point of view. We decided to call the resources “Mizube no Sachi.”Mizube no means riparian origin, and Sachi means blessings in Japanese. In this context, theblessing is food. We wanted to express appreciation for the lives of organisms which exist as food,so we called them not just food but “blessing” from Mother Nature. This appreciation for thenature represents a feeling that something Japanese have ever since our ancestors’ time.
Mizube no Sachi includes not only wild life but also alien species which were brought in by people
and have been utilized in many ways. It also includes plants that are casually cultivated in shortperiod while the river banks are dry during seasonal water level change. As a result, the list of
Mizube no Sachi included large variety of products. This is not a scientifically defined term..
At the end of research, the list contained more than 500 species. From the length of the list, it isclear that people of Mekong River basin utilize 1)many fish, 2)process insect as food, and 3)use
various plants including trees as food. Some kinds of species differ in some areas and countries,
but those three points are common among culture in Mekong River basin in terms of utilizing living
things.
Mizube no Sachi should play a central role when thinking of conserving local biodiversity in
Mekong River basin. Because in order to sustain biodiversity, it is important to know individualorganism; of its appearance, name and characteristic. This field guide book is a photo album thatrecorded riparian lives as clearly and comprehensively as possible. It made it possible tounderstand an ambiguous concept of biodiversity by showing evidences of just how diverse thelives are in the area.
It is our hope that this would help people to understand the importance of biodiversity, and thatwould lead to thought and activities to conserve local natural resources. It is our heartfelt wish
that rich natural resource and people’s lives along Mekong would be conserved in the future.

26 Nov. 2009

Dong Borng, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Acknowledgement―――――――――――――――――

This guidebook is a summary based on six years of research titled “Research on Mizube no Sachi in
Indo-China Peninsula (2007-2013)”, funded and administered by Nagao Natural Environment
Foundation. This research started as a project to transfer knowledge to local college students,
government officials and teachers in Laos and Cambodia, about methods of conducting study on
environmental conservation and aquatic creatures. As the project progressed, it became foremost
important to think about what kind of activities would contribute to conservation of naturalenvironment in Mekong river basin, since most of natural resource in the area was secondary.
First, we recognized that lives of people in Mekong river basin largely depended on utilizing
resource from waterfront. And we came to think that determining the object to be conserved
should be the priority. This thinking lead to an idea to make an illustrated handbook of all thethings of Mizube no Sachi. In each country of the research area there are products unique to someareas and those found commonly throughout the region, but they are often called in different names
in each region. So the primary purpose of this guide is to share common knowledge of all thecollection of resources in Mekong river basin.
Secondary purpose is to bring awareness of people that Mizube no Sachi tend to be looked as things
granted or too trivial to be noted; however, it cannot exist without healthy natural environment.
Therefore, in order to continue to utilize Mizube no Sachi, we must realize it is very important toconserve one’s surrounding natural environment. These are the goals our mission and the
purposes of this guide book.
We acknowledge that this guide needs more work to achieve the intended purposes. It is our
sincere hope that this guide will be a springboard for further advancement of environmental
conservation.
We would like to express appreciation to Prof. Dr. Ryutaro Ohtsuka, president of Nagao Natural
Environment Foundation and Prof. Dr. Yasuhiko Taki, adviser of the foundation; Mr. Yoshihiro
Natori, Dr. Makoto Komoda, Ms. Tomoko Oizumi of members of the Foundation. We thank Dr.
Kenzo Utsugi and Dr. Koichi Shibukawa who accompanied to the field and helped us with fish
research. We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to all the local people who supported
our research.
We had extensive cooperation and advice from local agencies and professional in order to conduct
field research and identification or organisms. We appreciate the following people for theirgenerosity.
*Providing information and help with identification
Mr. Hitoshi Ishikawa(Environmental Assessment Center Co.,Ltd., Japan)

Dr. Mamoru Ohwada(National Museum of Nature and Science, Japan)

Dr. Hirotsugu Ono(National Museum of Nature and Science, Japan)

Dr. Shozo Kawai(Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan)

Dr. Tadashi Kitano(Tokai University, Japan)

Mr. Taiji Kurozumi(Natural History Museum and Institute, Chiba, Japan)

Dr. Hiroaki Kojima(Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan)

Mr. Hirokazu Kobayashi(Shoin Junior and High School, Japan)

Dr. Tomoyuki Komai(Natural History Museum and Institute, Chiba, Japan)

Mr. Shoichi Sengoku, Deceased(Japan Wildlife Research Center, Japan

Dr. Hiroo Takahashi(Japan Wildlife Research Center, Japan)

Dr. Masanori Takeda(Teikyo Heisei University, Japan)

Dr. Masaaki Tomokuni(National Museum of Nature and Science, Japan)

Dr. Masami Hayashi(Saitama University, Japan)

Dr. Kimio Masumoto(Researcher of beetle, Japan)

Mr. Kazuo Matsuki(Japanese Society for Odonatology, Japan)

Dr. Masafumi Matsui(Kyoto University, Japan)

Dr. Yusuke Minoshima(Hokkaido University, Japan)

Dr. Shinya Miyano(Natural History Museum and Institute, Chiba, Japan)

Dr. Hideaki Mori

(Japan Wildlife Research Center, Japan)

Dr. Naoto Yokoi(Fukushima Agricultural Technology Center, Japan)

Dr. Hidenobu Funakoshi(Shinshu Unversity, Japan)

Dr. Bounthob Praxaysombath (National University of Laos, Lao PDR)
Ms. Khamfa Chantavongsa(National University of Laos, Lao PDR)

Ms. Peou Youleang(Loyal University of Phnom Penh, Cambodia)

Ms. Seang Hun(Loyal University of Phnom Penh, Cambodia)

Mr. Soulivanh Larnorsavanh(National University of Laos, Lao PDR)

Dr. Thongchai Champasri (Khon Kaen University, Thailand)
Dr. Thaya Jenjittikul(Mahidol University, Thailand)

Dr. Vichith Lamxay(National University of Laos, Lao PDR)

Dr. Yupa Hanboonsong(Khon Kaen University, Thailand)*Research support
Mr. Hiromu Ikenoue(Network of Asian Rural Communities, Japan)

Mr. Yasuhiro Kawaguchi (S.Y. Japanese Service Center, Thailand)
Dr. Kosuke Sano

(Fishers & Aquaculture International Co., Ltd., Japan)

Mr. Bae Pheaxay(National University of Laos, Lao PDR)

Ms. Bolichanh Liepvisay (Network of Asian Rural Communities, Lao PDR)
Dr. Chaiwut Grudpan(Ubonratchathani University, Thailand)

Ms. Chin Deth(Inland Fisheries Research and Development Institute, Cambodia)

Ms. Kim Sopheap(Inland Fisheries Research and Development Institute, Cambodia)

Ms. Manichit Lathichak(Namxouang Aquaculture Development Center, Lao PDR)

Mr. Mengthao(Village Aquaculture Prom. Comm. of Phonekeo Village, Lao PDR)

Ms. Nouhak Liepvisay(Namxouang Aquaculture Development Center, Lao PDR)

Mr. Phoukam(Namxouang Aquaculture Development Center, Lao PDR)Ms. Salavong Thammasedy(Namxouang Aquaculture Development Center, Lao PDR)
Mr. Sengvi Layvanh Singthavikhoune(National University of Laos, Lao PDR)

Ms. Sisamout Phengsakoun(Department of Livestock and Fisheries, Lao PDR)

Dr. So Nam(Inland Fisheries Research and Development Institute, Cambodia)

Ms. Soulichan Lamxay(National University of Laos, Lao PDR, [University of Tokyo])

Mr. Stefan Ottomanski(Environmental educator, based in Thailand)

Mr. Thach Phanara(Inland Fisheries Research and Development Institute, Cambodia)

Dr. Hiroyuki Kashiwadani (Photograph : National Museum of Nature and Science, Japan)*Translation
Ms. Noliko Utsuzawa(Natural environment advocate based in USA)

*English proofreading
Mrs. Jo Ann Davis
Ms. Barbara Trebino

Japan Wildlife Research CenterTable of Contents――――――――――――――――――――――

Study Region

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

9

Seasons

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

11

Local Markets

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

12

Traditional Cooking

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

14

Reptiles and Amphibians ・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

19

Freshwater Fish・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

51

Insects

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

177

Snails and Bivalves・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

257

Other Invertebrates

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

281

Plants・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

297

Fungus・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

383

Index

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

409

Scientific name・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

411

Laotian・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

419

Khmer

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

425

Thai

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

429

Vietnamese

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

435

Japanese

・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・・

439

24 Jul. 2009

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province, Laos

Study Region ―――――――――――――
Mekong River runs through Indo-China peninsula. It originates Tibetan Highlands and goes
through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam before reaching South China Sea.
In this study, the focused areas are the river banks in Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, andwe studied from Northern areas where Laos, Thailand and Myanmar meet their borders, to Southernareas like Tonle Sap in Cambodia and river mouth in Soc Trang province in Vietnam (see Table 1
and Figure 1).
Laos has large areas of its land in the riverbank of Mekong with the exception of northern most area.
The river makes borders between Thailand and Myanmar. In Thailand, the river basin includes
northern Chiang Rai and areas north up to border in addition to northeast regions. Most of theland in Cambodia is in Mekong River basin. The main stream runs through the country north tosouth, and it meets Tonle Sap River at Phnom Penh. After Phnom Penh, the river diverges intomain Mekong stream and Basak River towards Vietnam. They form great delta centering on South
Vietnam city of Can Tho flowing into South China Sea.
Table 1 List of major cities which Mizube no Sachi study was conducted(No. corresponds numbers in Figure 1).
No.
Country
1 Laos2
3
4
5Province
Bokeo
Bokeo
Louang Phrabang
Sainyabuli
V ientiane province

Citiy, village
Houayxay
Na Luang vill.
Louang Phrabang
Sainyabuli
V ang V ieng

6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

V ientiane capital，V ientiane province
Bolikhamsai
Bolikhamsai
Khammouane
Savannakhet
SalavanChampasak
SekongV ientiane
PaksanLak SaoThakhek
Savannakhet
Salavan
Pakse
Sekong

14
15 Thailand
16
17
18 Cambodia
19
20

Attapeu
Chiang Rai
Khon Kaen
Ubon Ratchathani
Ratanakiri
Stung Treng
KratieAttapeu
Chiang Rai
Khon Kaen
Ubon Ratchathani
Banlung
Stung Treng
Kratie

21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28

Kampong Cham
Siem Reap
Kampong Chhnang
Phnom Penh
Prey V eng
Takeo
Battambang
PursatKampong Cham
Siem Reap
Kampong Chhnang
Phnom Penh
Prey V eng
Takeo
Battambang
Pursat29 V ietnam
30
31
32

Can Tho government-ruled municipality
An Giang
Soc Trang
Soc Trang

Can Tho
Chau Doc
Soc Trang
Cu Lao Dung

9

Figure 1. Map of major cities the study was conducted10

Seasons――――――――――――――

Majority of areas in Mekong river basin belong to tropics. Southwest wind in summer andnortheast wind in winter take over the region. Because of this monsoon effect, the peninsula has
distinct dry and wet seasons. Onset of each seasons vary from region to region, but in most areas,
wet season starts from late April to mid-May, and lasts until late October to early November.
Depending on precipitation, water level of Mekong River changes between the two seasons. In
Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia, the water flows out to Tonle Sap River then into Mekong Riverduring dry season, but as the water level rises in Mekong during wet season, water flows backwards
into Tonle Sap Lake. During the heaviest precipitation period, area of the lake expands more than
five times than that of dry season. Water depth also increases to four to ten times more than any
season. In Laos, the study team was told the seasonal difference of Mekong’s water level becomes
15m in Louang Phrabang, 10m in Vientiane, and 12m in Pakse.
Distinctive seasonal changes have large impact on the ecosystem of organisms in the region.
Termites start to fly and Lethocerus begin to lay eggs as soon as the first rain of wet season falls.
As the water rises, wet areas expand and enable some fish to swim into paddies and wetlands to lay
eggs. During dry season, when the paddies are dry, aquatic lives migrate to wetter condition. In
paddies when it’s dry, one can see some fish which could not escape in time in paddles or see pondsnail burying itself in mud in order for them to keep remaining moisture. There might be a few
tens of diving beetle, huddling in the last oasis of paddles. People along Mekong are well adapted
to the seasonal changes and pay close attention to it.
People in farmland are especially aware ofwhich Mizube no Sachi is in season. Rain sometimes brings flood damages, but at the same time,
it is a blessing from nature so that organisms and people can sustain lives and culture in the area.
Seasonal change nourishes Mizube no Sachi. At one time, the study team came across an area
where roads and houses had been flooded by water rise during wet season. There seemed to be noresidents who were disturbed by the fact and they simply went to get their fishing poles and nets
and began fishing in flooded road. It seemed that average yearly overflow of river is more or lessexpected event as a part of life and people try to take advantage of it. This cultural value of “goingwith the flow” gave us basic insight when researching Mizube no Sachi.

People fishing in flooded road side 10 Sep. 2007 Vientiane Capital, Laos

11

Local Markets ――――――――――――
Due to intense sun shine and high temperature, Market sellers in Mekong river basin develop
various methods to keep their produce fresh. It is essential to start markets early in the morningwhen the sun and temperature are still low. Some markets have both or either morning andevening market depending on the locations, but most of fresh caught fish and plant produce arebeing sold in the morning. As the sun gradually increases its intensity, the sellers put over shadeand splash water on the produce and ground to keep them from wilting. It is best to sell them all
as early as possible for the benefit of both sellers and customers who are looking for fresh produce.
Some stores are open into afternoon, but there are hardly any fresh produce and if any, most plants
have been wilted so one would hardly see a customer.
[Preserving food]
Generally, local markets in inland Mekong river basin are not equipped with ample refrigeration
facility. Therefore, small aquatic lives such as fish, frogs, and crabs are brought alive and sold.
Although it is not Mizube no Sachi, live saltwater Bloody clam Tegillarca granosa, can be seen in
inland markets, because people know it can sustain life longer because of hemoglobin presence init.
Dead animals should be sold immediately, or if they are harvested regularly, they are dried or
smoked. The team observed dried fish related to snakehead and drum, and they tasted very salty.
Some frogs are dried on skewers. One other method to preserve fresh produce is fermentation.
Traditionally there are many fermented food, using fish, small shrimps, legumes, and grains in
Mekong river basin, but we were not able to do detailed research in this study. Given theimportance status as Mizube no Sachi, we believe the fermented food can be another category itself
when studying about Mizube no Sachi. We leave it as a future project. Following section
describes general fermented and dried food.
[Seasonal, Local, Taste preferences]
Items found in market have seasonal variety. Because there is distinct dry and wet periods,
animals or plant buds, fruits and flowers differ according to the seasons. For example, honey fromgiant honeybee (Apis dorsata) and sugar from sugar palm (Borassus flabellifer) can only be foundin dry season.
There are also geographic variety. Yanan (Tiliacora triandra) is a popular plant used in Thailandand Laos when boiling bamboo shoots. But it is not seen as soon as you cross the border toCambodia, and instead, Cambodians use a plant called Ngop (Sauropus androgynus) for the same
purpose. In Laos, insects are popular food source and one sees large variety and amount of insects
being sold. But in Cambodia, majority of people say they do not eat insects. It is true that cicada
and stinkbug are not sold in Cambodian market, but cricket, giant water bug, predaceous diving
beetle are still popular, and even winged termites are eaten as annual seasonal prized food.
Weaver ant is an essential part of making Cambodian soup. Overall, there are country andregional difference in terms of levels of assimilation, but we can say that using insect as food is ashared culture along Mekong river shed.
12

Furthermore, not all people eat all the food you see on the market. We heard different opinions on
taste preference of larva of horned dung beetle, and large snails, or stalk of very bitter yam plant.
When a large live jewel beetle was on a market, some people purchase it as food while others do so
as a toy for children.
[Mammals and Birds]
Wild bird and mammals are commonly seen in many markets in mountain areas. Trading someanimals is illegal. Therefore, sellers tend to hide them from the sight of foreigners like us, or they
don’t allow any pictures to be taken. We wanted to maintain friendly relationship with locals, so
we have excluded those animals from research target. Moreover, it was not clear if they can be
included within category of Mizube no Sachi, the only applicable definition of which, can be“caught easily with minimum time spent.”

27 May 2009

Tha Heua Market, Louang Phrabang, Laos

24 Nov. 2009

Vang Vieng Market, Vientiane Provine, Laos13

Traditional Cooking ――――――――――<Fish sauce>
Fish sauce is a fermented food which is made by salting fish and other shellfish, then leaving themfor a while to let the enzyme work on the process of fermentation. It is used in daily life in
Mekong river basin and so it is one of most essential seasoning when talking about food culture inthis area. In inland Mekong river shed, freshwater fish is abundant and it is used for making fishsauce. They are called Nam pa in Laos and NE Thailand, or Nam pla in other parts of Thailand,
Tuk trey in Cambodia. Many of them are in a glass jar and manufactured in factories. Fish sauce
is used to season soups, noodles and other dishes. It is usually set on tables of eateries.
While fish sauce is widely available commercially, there is homemade seasoning called Pa daek
(NE Thai and Laos), Pla ra (Central Thai), Pa ha (Northern Thai), Pra hoc (Cambodia). Theseare paste fish sauce, and are very versatile. Not only is it used as seasoning, it can be served as aside either as it is of mixed with herbs or used in main ingredients of main dishes. This homemade
fish sauce is usually made from freshwater fish, and quite often the entire process of making thesauce (catching fish to final sauce) takes place at home. The broth, byproduct of making the paste
is called Nam pa daek (in Laos, NE Thai), Nam pla ra (central Thai), Nam pa ha (Northern Thai),Tuk trey (Cambodia), and is also used as seasoning.
People who make homemade fish sauce are not very many in urban areas of Thailand, but it is stillcommonly made in NE Thai, Laos and Cambodia as an essential seasoning. There are many otherkinds of fish sauce using saltwater fish, shrimps, and crabs.

Fish paste (Pa daek)

Making home made fish sauce

14<Fermented Sushi>
Fermented Sushi is a fermented food either commercially or homemade. Most of the time, it ismade by lactic fermentation of salted freshwater fish and steamed sweet rice. Often times, it ismade by whole or cut fish which is scaled and cleaned while others use minced fish, fish mixed
with organs, or fish eggs. Family Cyprinidae of and order of Catfish are often used as main
ingredients and other kinds like Family Osphronemidae or Channidae are used. There is anothertype of fermented food commonly known as Som pa (Laso, NE Thai), Pa som (NEThai), Pla som(Thailand), Pa mam (Thailand), Pa chao (NE Thai, Northern Thai), Phaak (Cambodia). Sommeans sour in Lao and Thai, and Pa or Pla means fish. It literally tastes like what it says. It canbe eaten raw but as a sanitary precaution, people often heat it up to serve.

Many kinds of fermented Sushi sold in markets

Fermented Sushi of fish eggs

<Dried, Smoked food>Large catch of fish and frogs are often dried and smoked to enable longer storage. The fishes offamily Cyprinidae and order Siluriformes are commonly used as well as other large and small fish.
As for frogs, Hoplobatrachus rugulosus and Fejervarya limnocharis are most commonly used.
Smoked and dried goods are served after heating, stir-frying, or frying.

variety of smoked fish

Smoked frogs

15

<Cheo (Nam prik)>
A type of paste made by sautéing and mixing main ingredients, chili, green onion, shallots, andherbs, seasoned with fish sauce, salt, or MSG. It is called cheo in NE Thai and Laos, Nam prik inother parts of Thailand with variety of ingredients. Main ingredients can be giant water bug, stinkbug, cricket, mole cricket, frogs, fish, and mushrooms. The simpler form of cheo which can bemade by fish sauce and chili. This is more liquid and since it is easier to make, it is widely
incorporated into home cooking. Cheo is often eaten by dipping steamed sweet rice as swell as
raw vegetables cooked fish and meat, or put in soup and noodles. It is essential in home cooking
in Laos and Thailnad.

Cheo of stink bug

Cheo is often eaten as a dip for sweet rice

<Lap, Koi>
These are local favorites in Laos, NE Thai, and Northern Thai. It is a kind of salad with mincedmeat or fish mixed with herbs, rice flour, chili, dried onion, and seasoning. Seasoned with fishsauce, salt or lime. Knifefish’s lap is the most famous among freshwater fish lap. Lap and Koi arevery similar.

Koi of weaver ant

Koi of Nile tilapia

16

<Mok>
Lao cuisine of aquatic animals, steamed in banana leaf. Main ingredient is seasoned with herbs,
chili, salt and fish sauce. Small aquatic animals such as small fish, aquatic insects, tadpoles areoften cooked this way.

ingredients are wrapped in banana leaf

Mok with small fish, frogs, aquatic insects and shrimp

17

18

Reptiles and Amphibians

19

20

Reptiles and Amphibians――――――――

Among reptiles and amphibians as foodstuff, frogs are most commonly used as important protein
source for people in Mekong river basin. Reptiles are not as often used as daily food thanamphibians, but sometimes tortoise, lizards and snakes are caught to eat. In this study, estimated
20 species of reptiles, 20 species of amphibians are identified, but we assume that more variety ofanimals are being consumed at home; they are just not seen in markets.
Common reptiles seen in markets are Indochinese snail-eating turtle (Malayemys subtrijuga) andcalotes (Calotes versicolor)．Indochinese snail-eating turtle is also sold in the cities, and is not only
sold as food, but also large demand for mercy release (releasing catch into wild to make up the lost
lives of those had been eaten). It is a unique sight in Buddhist country. Other species of tortoise
are relatively expensive than other animals. We assumed that they are not affordable to ordinary
population and are less popular as food unless someone catches them by himself. Snakes areoccasionally seen in markets and some people like them, but those are not used in daily meal
preparation. A few markets sell Varanus nebulosus once in a while. Overall, reptiles may not
make up popular dishes, but they are considered familiar foodstuff as they are consumed among
rural villagers and are seen in markets occasionally. It is even possible that they are cultured byprofessionals.
As for amphibians, larger species of Hoplobatrachus rugulosus and smaller species of Fejervarya
limnocharis and Occidozyga lima are frequently sold at market. Not only adults but also tadpoles
are used and sold in markets. Frogs are served in eateries in the cities, and most of the time, H.
rugulosus is used. H. rugulosus is cultured widely and is readily available throughout year. In
the market, both harvested and wild caught ones are sold, but wild caught are more expensive.
Other than H. rugulosus, which is cultured, frogs are basically caught in wild. They have different
seasons, so one sees different species in the market throughout the year. Many of the species live
in close proximity of villages and forest around it. They are popular as Mizube no Sachi.

21Morphology of Reptiles and Amphibians

TurtleSnake

Carapace length

Total length

Head and Body length
Foreleg

HindlegTaillengthFrog【Adult】【Larva】

Body length
Snout

Body length

Ear
drum

Tail length
Foreleg
Hindleg22Order: Testudines

Geoemydidae spp.
LA

Tao，Tao nam

KH

AndawkFamily: Geoemydidae

TH
VN

JP

Cyclemys dentata; Rua dua Cyclemys dentata; Rùa dứa
Malayemys subtrijuga :Rua Malayemys subtrijuga :Rùaba go Cuora amboinesis: Rua ba gờ Cuora amboinensis:
nap; Tua hop
Ishi-gameRùa nắp; Tùa hộp

イシガメ科の複数種(Photo: Nokoheri-marugame)
Remarks

Basic Information
Its distribution is centered in temperate and tropical Asia

Cyclemys dentata
23 May 2009 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Provine, Laosand South Europe, North Africa, and Central and South
Asia.
Use
The team identified Cyclemys dentata 、 Malayemys subtrijuga 、 Cuora amboinensis as foodsource. These species are popularly served roasted or in soup. In the market, M. subtrijuga isfound most. It is because they are also used in “mercy release” (as in Buddhist belief, releasing acatch in the wild is considered act of virtue) as well as food. In Cambodia, one C. amboinensis
sold at a price of twenty US dollar which is very high compared to other market goods.

Malayemys subtrijuga
19 Nov. 2009

Thong Khan Kham Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

19 Nov. 2009

Thong Khan Kham Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Cuora amboinensis
06 Nov. 2008

Malayemys subtrijuga

23

Neak Loeung, Kandal, Cambodia

isOrder: Testudines
Family: Platysternidae

Platysternon megacephalum
LA

Tao，Poulou

KH

AndawkTH
VN

Rua dau toRùa đầu toJP

Ooatama-game

オオアタマガメ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southern China, Hainan Island, andIndo-China Peninsula. The shell length is 11 to 20cm. It

18 Sep 2011

Nan Pui, Sainyabuli, Laos

18 Sep 2011

Nan Pui, Sainyabuli, Laos

lives along mountain streams.
Use
It was found as a food source in Sainyabuli province in Laos,mainly as a soup ingredient. It is highly-priced trade goods
as used in Chinese cuisine (we heard in an interview as
1,000,000 kip/kg). Apart from collecting in the wild, people
catch the young and raise it until it is mature (semi-farmraised) and ready to be sold. Collection mainly occurs along
mountain streams.

24Order: Testudines
Family: Trionychidae

Trionychidae spp.
LA

Pa fa

KH

Konthiey

TH

Tapab nam

VN

Ba ba; Cua dinhBa ba; Cua đinhSuppon

スッポン科の複数種

JP(Photo: Maru-suppon)
Remarks

Use
They

are

used

in

multiplecountries

as

a

soup

ingredient. In Laos, Pelochelys cantorii was identified asa food source.

Order: Testudines
Family: Testudinidae

Testudinidae spp.
LA

Pelochelys cantorii
23 May 2009 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Tao

KH
TH
VN

Rua nui vienRùa núi viềnJP

Riku-game

リクガメ科の複数種

Photo:Bekkou-mutsuashi-gameRemarksUse
In Laos, both adults

and eggs

are consumed as

food. Adult Manouria impressa and eggs of Testudinidae

Manouria impressa
25 May 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

spp. are identified in the market. The adult is used in soup,and eggs are boiled and served.

19 Nov 2011 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos25

Order: Squamata
Family: Agamidae

Calotes versicolorLA

Ka pomKH

Bong kuoi

THVN

Ky nhong; Cac keKỳ nhông; Cắc ké

JP

Irokae-Karotesu

イロカエカロテス

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southwest Asia to India and Sri Lanka,
Indo-China, South China, Sumatra, and islands in

25 Jun. 2010

Dong Makkai, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

14 Feb. 2010

Lak8 Market, Savannakhet,
Laos

the Indian Ocean such as Mauritius and Reunion. The
length of a normal individual measures about 35cm, butsometimes grows up to 50cm. Its scales on the lateraltrunk point toward up and behind. It changes its color from
red to metallic blue. It mainly habituates in forests but is
adapted to living near human habitats. Larger individuals,
especially males, have a tendency to be found in the upper
part of tall trees.
Use
In the Lao market, it was sold at 10,000kip for three. It isserved roasted or put in Laap. People collect it in forests
near the villages.

26Order: Squamata
Family: Agamidae

Physignathus cocincinus
LA

Ka thang

KH
TH
VN

Rong dat; Nhong catRồng đất; Nhông cát

JPIndo-China-water-dragon

インドシナウォータードラゴン

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in South China to Indo-China. The total
length is 60 to 90cm. It is often found in lowland forests. It

18 Sep. 2011 Sainyabuli Market,
Sainyabuli, Laosis diurnal and mostly lives on the ground, but is able toclimb trees.

The body is green and can adapt tosurrounding colors to some degree.
Use
The team witnessed its use as food in Laos. It is often
served roasted or put in Laap.
18 Sep. 2011 Sainyabuli Market,
Sainyabuli, Laos

27

Order: Squamata
Family: Varanidae

Varanus nebulosus
LA

Laen

KH

Trokuot

TH
VN

Ky da van; Ky da hoa

Kỳ đà vân; Kỳ đà hoa

JPHigashi-bengal-ootokage

ヒガシベンガルオオトカゲ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southwest area of Guangdong Province,
Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, South Yunnan

27 May 2009

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

Province in China, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand,
East and South Myanmar, Malay Peninsula, Sumatra
Island,Java

IslandandLesserSunda

Islands

inIndonesia. It is a large lizard with the full body length ofabout 140cm (about 54cm snout to vent length). It is foundin small patches of a forest and green areas in suburbs. It
is known for the large consumption of small catches. Mostof its diet consists of invertebrates such as beetles,
grasshoppers, ants, scorpions, centipedes, and snails.

12 Sep. 2011 Ton Vieng Kham,
Bolikhamsai, Laos

Use
In Laos and Cambodia, adults and eggs are consumed. It is especially preferred in markets around
Luang Prabang in Laos where one adult was sold at 45,000kip/kg. Live adults are sold with its legs
tied on its back to avoid any movement. Adults are served grilled or put in soups or in Laap. In
Laos, first it is chopped with the bone-in, then seasoned with garlic, chili, lemongrass, fish sauce,salt and MSG and grilled. Eggs are boiled to eat. It is collected using a type of a tie up trap.

28

Order: Squamata

Colubridae spp.
LA

Ngu

KH

Poah

Family: Colubridae

TH
VN
JP

Ran bong sungRắn bông súngNami-hebi

ナミヘビ科の複数種(Photo:Shina-mizuhebi)
Remarks

Use
Snakes are not heavily sought after as food, but they
are consumed in many countries. It is served roasted

Enhydris chinensis
29 May 2009 Norng Bon, Vientiane
Capital, Laosand put in Laap or soup. Sometimes it is preserved inalcohol, and this is often sold as a souvenir around Luang Prabang in Laos. In Cambodia,
small snakes on a stake were sold at two for One US dollar. It is assumed that snakes are
consumed at homes, but a detail on how it is done was not clear in this study.

06 Nov. 2008

Neak Loeung, Kandal, Cambodia

09 Nov. 2008

Enhydris plumbea
25 Aug. 2010

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province, Laos29

Tha Heua Market, Louang Phrabang,
LaosDendrelaphis pictus

Amphiesma stolatum

27 Jul. 2008

28 May 2009

28 May 200907 Aug. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,Laos

28 May 2009

Ahaetulla nasuta

Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,Laos

28 May 200930

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Enhydris plumbea

Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

Ahaetulla prasina

Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,
LaosBoiga multomaculata

28 May 2009

Chrysopelea ornata

Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,Laos

28 May 2009

Dryocalamus davisonii

28 May 2009

28 May 2009

Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

Oligodon purpurascens

Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,Laos

28 May 2009

Oligodon sp.
Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

Xenochrophis piscator

28 May 200931

Xang Hai, Louang Phrabang,
LaosOrder: Anura
Family: Bufonidae

Duttaphrynus melanostictus
LA

Khan khak

KH

King kuok

TH
VN

Coc nhaCóc nhàJP

Heriguro-hikigaeru

ヘリグロヒキガエル

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in China, Pakistan in South Asia,

17 Sep. 2007 Wat Preah Yesu, Siem
Reap, Cambodia

Indo-China, Malaysia, Borneo Island, and Indonesia in
Southeast

Asia.

The

snout-vent

lengthis60

to110mm. There is a black bordered ridge from the top of its
snout to the top of its eye. Its color can range from grey,
reddish brown, to yellow. Eggs are clustered in a long string
and larvae measures 20mm. It is found in disturbed areas
such as a cultivated field and also in villages and cities.
11 Feb. 2010

Mouth, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

Use
They are not commonly circulated in markets; however, in North Thailand, Laos and Cambodia,
they are consumed by skinning them and either fried or roasted. In Cambodia, they were highly
recommended as tasty frogs.

32Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Fejervarya limnocharisLA

Khiat moo

KH

Kongkaeb ai(ch)ko，Ai(ch)ko

TH
VN

Nhai ngoe

Nhái; Ngóe

JP

Numa-gaeru

ヌマガエル

Remarks

Basic Information
It is widely distributed in tropical Asia from Pakistan to

28 Jun. 2010 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Japan. The snout-vent length is 32 to 58mm. It has anarrow head and a slightly pointed snout. There is a low
ridge on the back. Some individuals have a whitish line on
the back. The abdomen is white. It is found in secondary
natural growth such as a paddy field, as well as nearvillages. It is commonly sighted with abundance. Mating
occurs during the rain season. It lays eggs in paddies andother temporary wetlands, and metamorphosis occurs in one
to two months.

22 Jul. 2008 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
This is the most popular species of the small edible frogs category in Indo-China. Adults are sold inmarkets. It is often served by frying with the bone-in after it is gutted, or used in soups andsir-fried dishes. It is found easily around villages in abundance, so people often collect it for
consumption. Collection often takes place at night. People use their bare hands or hand nets forcollecting frogs. One Lao collector told the team that he can sell the frog at a price of 25,000 kip/kg
at market (Vientiane Province).

33

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Hoplobatrachus rugulosusLA

Kob naKH

Kongkaep ouk

THVN

Ech dongẾch đồng

JP

Babatorafu-gaeru

ババトラフガエル

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Indo-China, China and Taiwan. It is alsotransplanted in Malaysia and the Philippines. It resembles

23 Jul. 2008

Dong Makkai, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Fejervarya limnocharis, but this species is larger. Larva of
this species can be distinguished from the same size of larvaof Fejervarya limnocharis by its more developed webbing on
its hind legs. It has a white abdomen and mottled jaw. It isfound near water in paddies, marshes, flood plains and lakes.
12 Sep. 2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
This is the most popular edible frogs in Indo-China, and is sold at most of the markets. It is served
by gutting then fried, roasted, or boiled. Sometimes it is stuffed with herbs and ground meat andfried, or used as the main ingredient of chili paste. Dried frogs are roasted or fried to eat. Becauseof its large size, it is very filling. Farm-raising is popular and breeders of this species are
distributed in Thailand and Laos. In markets, many farm-raised frogs are sold, but in general, wildcaught ones are said to taste better. Thus, the wild collection is also popular. Collection methods
are by hand, fixed fishing traps, and basket traps. Collecting by hand is done at night. Hand-heldnets, harpoons, and spearguns are also used for collection. In Laos, a type of bamboo fish trap
called Bet Kob is used. When 30 baits (earthworms) are attached to a Bet Kob and left near thewater overnight, 10 to 15 frogs can be collected the next day. Another type of trap is Toum Kob,
which is a bamboo basket. A piece of fish is left in the basket near the water overnight. 20 of thosebasket traps will yield 1 to 2kg of frogs. These traps are used more often during October throughFebruary. People say Bet Kob is more efficient. Other than those consumed at home, collected
frogs are sold to markets at a price of 40,000 kip/kg. During the research, H. chinensis of same
genus is confirmed.

34

23 Jul. 2008

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

27 Jun. 201022 Jul. 2008

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

12 Sep. 2007 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

28 Jul. 2010

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

30 Jun. 201023 Jul. 2008

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

23 Jul. 200835

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Had Saun, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

03 Sep. 2010

(Toum Kob）
Na Pak, Vientiane Capital, Laos

03 Sep. 2010 Na Pak,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

03 Sep. 2010 Na Pak,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

03 Sep. 2010
Na Pak,Vientiane Capital, Laos

Hoplobatrachus chinensis

12 Nov. 2008 Sivilay,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

04 Nov. 200836

Tropeang Thom Khang Cheung,
Takeo, Cambodia

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Hylarana erythraea
LA

Khiat tapath，Khiat lang
khiew

KH

Kanchang cheik

TH
VN

Chang hiu xanhChàng hiu xanhJP

Asia-midori-gaeru

アジアミドリガエル

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia. Its snout-vent length is

31 May 2009 Na Ngom, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

32 to 75mm. It has a green dorsal side with a distinctive
black lined white band. Some individuals have a brownback. Its abdomen is white and the hind legs are very
long. Males are considerably smaller than females. It is
widely found in paddy fields, villages, farmlands and forests,
especially in disturbed lands. Mating occurs throughout theyear, and eggs are laid in shallow stagnant water.
15 Aug. 2007 Kampong Phluk, Siem
Reap, Cambodia

Use
It is rarely seen in markets, but commonly eaten at homes. It is served fried, roasted, or insoup. Sometimes it is dried. In Cambodia, skewed or tempura (deep fried) frogs are sold atstalls. The team confirmed several species of genus Hylarana, and all of them were used in thesame manner.

37

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Hylarana guentheriLA

Khiat makleuang

KH

Kanchang cheik dai

TH
VN

Chau changChẫu chàng

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in China and Taiwan through Vietnam. The
snout-vent length is 63 to 76mm. The male is smaller than
the female. It has a brown body with a white abdomen.

Hylarana guentheri
22 Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Its hind legs and toes are long. It is found in paddy fields, marshes and ponds.

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Hylarana macrodactyla
LA

Khiat tapath，Khiat lang
saek

KH

Kanchang cheik

TH
VN

Chang hiu

Chàng hiu

JP

Yubinaga-tonosama-gaeru

ユビナガトノサマガエル

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southern China to Indo-China and Malay
Peninsula.

It has a slender body, even the snout isnarrow. Its hind legs and toes are long. It lives in lakes,
flood plains and paddy fields.

38

25 Jul. 2008 Naphang, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Hylarana taipehensis
LA

Khiat tapath，Khiat lang
saek

KH

Kanchang cheik

TH
VN

Chang hiu dai bac

Chàng hiu Đài Bắc

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed throughout Taiwan, China to Indo-China
Peninsula. There are some records from Bangladesh.

Hylarana taipehensis
29 May 2009 Norng Bon, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

It has a slender body and very long hind legs. Its appearance resembles Hylarana macrodactyla. It
lives in paddy fields, flood plains, marshes and forest ponds.

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Hylarana nigrovittata
LA

Khiat lueong，Khiat ta oad

KH

Kanchang cheikTH
VN

Ech suoiÊch suối

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in China through Indo-China Peninsula andMalay Peninsula. There are records from Sumatra andIndia. It is found in slow streams of the evergreen forests.

39

Hylarana nigrovittata
22 Nov. 2009 Mueng Song Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Limnonectes kuhlii
LA

Khiat khakham，Kob hin，
Kob houay

KH

KongkaepTH
VN

Ech tronẾch trơn

JP

Kuhl-gaeru

クールガエルRemarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia. There are some records

22 Nov. 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laosfrom India as well. Its snout-vent length is 44 to 67mm. It
has a broad head and torso with a stocky body. The malehas a broader head than the female. Its hind toes havewebbing but not the front toes. It lives in streams of thehigher mountain forests. It is nocturnal and tends not tostay out of water for a long period.
Use
It is occasionally found in markets. It is fried, roasted, driedor put in soups to be served. In Laos, it is prized for its good
taste, and traded with high value. It is collected by hand,using a light during the night in the fringe of a riverforest. It is often found in markets in nearby mountains.

40

22 Nov. 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Odorrana sp. (cf. livida)
LA

Khiat leuang，Khiat khiew，
Khiat tapath

KH

Kanchang cheikTH
VN

Ech nui xanhẾch núi xanhJP
RemarksUse
It is found in a market in Vang Vieng in Laos. It is fried,
roasted, steamed, dried or put in soup to be eaten. It iscollected by hand, using a light at night nearby rivers in

Odorrana sp.
22 Nov. 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

forests.

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Sylvirana lateralisLA

Khiat tapath

KH

Kanchang cheik

TH
VN
JP
RemarksUse
It is fried, roasted, dried or put in soup to be served.
Sylvirana lateralis
25 May 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos41

Order: Anura
Family: Ranidae

Occidozyga lima
LA

Khiat taath，Khiat tana，Khiat sa

KH

Kounk’at

TH
VN

Cocnuoc lima

Cóc nước lima

JP

Asia-uki-gaeru

アジアウキガエル

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Indo-China Peninsula to Bengali area in

23 Jul. 2008

Dong Makkai, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

India, and Malay Peninsula to Java Island. The snout-vent
length is 25 to 35mm. The body is brown to a green
color. Its eyes protrude upward. The webbings on the legs
are well developed. Larvae have a long tail which has
partially broad areas. Its habitat is near the water such as
paddy fields, marshes, waterways, ponds and lakes, andfound in abundance. It is often seen floating in water with
only its eyes above the water surface. It lives along water
most of the time, and eats small aquatic insects.

26 Jun. 2010 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Use
It is consumed often but due to its small size, it is rarely sold on its own; rather, mixed with larvae ofwater beetles, larvae of dragonflies, shrimps, and tadpoles. It is fried, roasted, steamed or put insoup to be served. In Laos, it is mixed with other aquatic insects/animals and wrapped in banana
leaves to be steamed. Other than food, it is used as bait of long line fishing to catch carnivorous
fish. It is also circulated as bait for ornamental carnivorous fish. It is collected by using small
nets, colanders, or seine nets.

29 May 2009 Norng Yao,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

16 Sep. 2007 Arak Svay,
Siem Reap, Cambodia

42

12 Sep. 2007 Phoxai,
Vientiane Capital , Laos

28 Jun. 2010 Phone Ngeun,
Vientiane Province, Laos

01 Aug. 2010 Napuheuy,
Vientiane Province, Laos

10 Jun. 2007 New Nong Neow Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

15 Sep. 2007 Kampong Phluk,
Siem Reap, Cambodia

28 Jun. 2010 Houay Yae,
Vientiane Province, Laos43

Order: Anura
Family: Rhacophoridae

Polypedates leucomystax
LA

Khiat tapath khayao，Khiat
tapad

KH

Kongkaeb ai(ch)ko，Ai(ch)ko

TH
VN

Ech cay mep trangẾch cây mép trắng

JP

Shiroago-gaeru

シロアゴガエル

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in South and Southeast Asia from Nepal to29 Jul. 2010 Pakkagnoung, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Indonesia and the Philippines. Its snout-vent length is 37 to
75mm. It has a slender body with long front and hindlegs. Toes are long with developed sucker-like adhesive
disks on the tips. Its upper jaw is white. There are 4 darklines on the back, but sometimes they are unclear for someindividuals. The larvae have eyes on the side of their head
and the distance between each eye is wide. The tail of thelarvae is wide in the middle. Its habitat is consisted of

24 May 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laosvarious environments from villages in the lowland, plowed
land, fringe forest and even in urban areas. It is nocturnal,
often found in trees, but can be found on the ground or
in grasslands. Eggs are covered with cream-colored foam.
Each foam forms a lump consisted of several hundred eggs, and are laid near water, in paddles, orat the edge of water tanks.
Use
It is mainly eaten by frying. It is collected by hand using a light at night. A researcher followed acollector at Don Makai and Khun Neua villages in Laos and observed the collection. He could easily
catch the frogs because many were on branches of small trees in the villages and near
marshes. Megacephalus in the same genus was also found in markets.

44

29 Jul. 2010 Dong,
Vientiane Province, Laos

16 Sep. 2007 Arak Svay,
Siem Reap, Cambodia

28 Jun. 2010 Phone Ngeun,
Vientiane Province, Laos

27 Jul. 2008 Nathone,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Polypedates megacephalus

28 Jul. 2010 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

23 May 200945

Vang Vieng Market, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Anura
Family: Microhylidae

Kaloula pulchra
LA

Eung yang

KH

Hing

TH
VN

Enh uongỂnh ương

JP

Asia-jimuguri-gaeru

アジアジムグリガエル

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed throughout tropical Asia from India to

12 Sep. 2007 Hou Kua Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

China. Its snout-vent length is 54 to 75mm. It has a stout
and a round body with a small head and short legs. Toes are
slender and long, with their tips swelled. Its hind legs havewebbings. The skin is smooth and brown in color. There isa light brown line from the snout to its body. The abdomen
is white and covered with a pale mottle. Its lower jaw isdark. It puffs up when threatened. It usually habituates inforest floors of flat areas. It adapts well to the ever-changing

27 Jun. 2010 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

environment by human activities, thus often found in towns and paddy fields. It is nocturnal andhides under fallen leaves or rocks during the daytime. Its diet is mainly ants and other small
insects. Eggs are laid in temporally stagnant water such as puddles.
Use
Roasting and putting in soups are popular ways to serve it. It has a reputation for its taste in Laosand Cambodia.

It is collected around paddy fields by hand with a light at night. It is said thatcollection is more productive at paddies which are closer to forests. Many adults are found in June
and July when it is after the beginning of the rain season. It is harder to find them in other times ofthe year. Its Cambodian name, “Hing”, comes from the sound of the frogs call.

12 Sep. 2007 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

12 Sep. 2007 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

46

27 May 2009

Nakha, Louang Phrabang, Laos

27 May 2009

Nakha, Louang Phrabang, Laos

27 May 200947

Nakha, Louang Phrabang, Laos

Order: Anura
Family: Microhylidae

Microhyla berdmorei
LA

Khane khak，Khiat kha
kham

KH

Kongkaep koun kromom

TH
VN

Nhai bau

Nhái bầu

JP

Oohime-amagaeru

オオヒメアマガエル

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Northeastern India, Bangladesh,

19 Nov. 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, LaosSouthern China through Indo-China Peninsula, Malay
Peninsula and Sumatra Island and Borneo Island. The
snout-vent length is 24 to 32mm. There are warts on its
back. It has long hind legs and toes. It is found in primary
forests in a lowland but sometimes found in secondary
forests. It is nocturnal.
22 Nov. 2009 Mueng Song Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Use
It is fried, roasted, dried or put in soups to be served. In Lao market, it was found at 1,000kip for 4
frogs. Other species of Narrow-mouthed frogs are used in the same way. During the research, useof Microhyla fissipes and Kalophrynus interlineatus were confirmed, and there are some otherspecies that are not confirmed. It is collected at night by hand. In Champasak province in Laos,
Narrow-mouthed frogs are collected during the dry period. Adult frogs gather at areas where fallen
leaves are accumulated, so it is easy to find and catch them.

48

19 Nov. 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

14 Feb. 201019 Nov. 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Microhyla fissipes

Seno Markeｔ, Savannakhet, Laos

20 Jan. 2013

Salao, Champasak, Laos

Microhyla fissipes
17 Aug. 201020 Jan. 2013

Salao, Champasak, Laos

20 Jan. 2013

Salao, Champasak, Laos

Kalophrynus interlineatus

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

26 Jul. 200849

Sivilay, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Reference
池ノ上宏・佐野幸輔（2004）ラオスのカエル．NARC アジア農山漁村ネットワーク．
海老沼剛（2006）爬虫・両生類ビジュアルガイド

カエル①

ユーラシア大陸、アフリカ大陸とマダガ

スカル、オーストラリアと周辺の島々のカエル．誠文堂新光社．
クリス,マチソン 著・松井正文 訳（2008）世界カエル図鑑 300 種．ネコ・パブリッシング．
千石正一（1994）爬虫両生類飼育図鑑 カメ・トカゲ・イモリ・カエルの飼い方．マリン企画．
千石正一 監・長坂拓也 編著（1999）爬虫類・両生類 800 種図鑑．ピーシーズ．
多紀保彦

監・自然環境研究センター

編著（2008）日本の外来生物．平凡社．

日高敏隆 監・千石正一・疋田努・松井正文・仲谷一宏 編（1996）日本動物大百科 第 5 巻 両生類・爬虫類・軟骨魚類．平凡社．
前田憲男・松井正文（1989）日本カエル図鑑．文一総合出版．
松橋利光・冨田京一（2007）山渓ハンディ図鑑 10 日本のカメ・トカゲ・ヘビ．山と渓谷社．
Go!! Suzuki 著・クリーパー編集部 編（2006）爬虫・両生類ビジュアルガイド
カゲ．誠文堂新光社．
「Amphibia Web」 http://amphibiaweb.org/index.html「Amphibian Species of the World 5.5, an Online Reference」
http://research.amnh.org/vz/herpetology/ amphibia/「The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species」 http://www.iucnredlist.org/

50

オオトカゲ＆ドクト

Freshwater Fish

51

52

Freshwater Fish―――――――――――

There is wide variety of freshwater fish in Mekong River Basin, and people in the area have beenutilizing it as valued protein sources for a long time. People in inland area especially depend on
freshwater fish. Even today, with advanced development transportation, freshwater fish dominates
the fish markets in inland area.
Kinds of fish that are utilized are numerous from those caught inwaterways and paddies near houses, to those caught by large scale fishing in Mekong Rivermainstream or Lake Tonle Sap.
In markets, there are many kinds and sizes of fish. One can find small fish with size of 1-2cm, tobig fish of more than 1m. Many markets are not equipped with refrigeration, so fresh caught fishneed to be sold as quickly as possible. One might worry if they could be all sold when we seehuge pile of fish, but there will be a new pile the next morning. Traded products are not limited to
fresh fish, but fermented products such as fish sauce, fermented fish sushi, or processed andnon-perishable food such as dried and smoked fish are also available. Fermented products areespecially important when understanding food culture of Mekong river basin. From their wide
variety, we know that freshwater fish is deeply embedded in culture of Mekong river basin.
People use not only market-bought fish. They catch on their own to make daily meals. It is
men’s work to do large scale fishing with boats, but small scale fish collection in shallow waters
around villages are for women and children. In the shallow waters, catches are mostly small fish
and it becomes dishes for the day. Some fish are farmed, and there are company- based large scale
farming, and smaller, more casual ones done by individuals by making pond in their own backyardor paddy.
In this study, we collected data on species that are commonly used and traded in markets. As forfish that are collected around villages, we went out to field to observe habitat and surrounding
environment, and interviewed about collection methods. Within the data collected in markets andfields, we found some species which are typically not considered edible. For those species, we
could not clearly record all the usage, but included them as data at large.

53

Collection Method (fishing)
There are many freshwater fish in Mekong river basin, and fishing methods vary according toseasons and type of fish. In this section, we introduce fishing methods around homes and villages.

<Fishing>
A method with a pole, string, and a hook to pull fish out ofwater.
There are fiberglass pole in stores, but many people
make their own with bamboo. Poles, strings, and hooks varydepending on what to catch. Shrimp, worms, cut piece offish are used as baits, depending on the target. This method
is used widely in waterways and rivers and lakes.

<By hand>A method to catch fish by hand in shallow waters during dry
season. Target is fish that are temporarily left in the remaining
water. This is a simple method of putting hands in roots ofgrass or in a hole, but it works effectively as the fish cannot
escape quickly with the water being so low. Medium-sizedfish such as snakehead and Climbing perch can be caught withthis method.

<Four-sided life net>
In this method, four corners of a square net are lifted by crossedbamboo or pipe, and the net is submerged for a period of time.
A fisher catches what is in the net after he lifts it from the water.
Center of the net is made to sag so that fish in the net would
naturally roll toward it. The net is usually lifted on a bamboo
stick. Women and children often use it. Many people use
this method when water rises in rain season to catch incoming
fish in overflowed areas. Size of the net varies depending on
targets.

<Bamboo sieve, hand-held net>
A method using a round bamboo sieve or a net set on round or
triangular bamboo frame to scoop water. Small and slow fish
can be collected. Aquatic insects and shrimp are collected at
the same time. It is often used in shallow and stagnant waters
such as paddies and marshes.
It is often used by women andchildren.

54

<Fish basket>
A method to use a cylindrical basket by putting it vertically inthe water and catch the fish inside by hand. As a fisher walks
around, bamboo basket is put into water like one is inserting acane stick. Once the basket is put over a fish, the fish moves
by surprise and shakes the basket. When a fisher feels thevibration, he puts his hands in the basket without lifting it, tograb the fish. It is used in marshes and shallow parts of lakes.
Medium-sized fish are often caught.

<Cast net>
A method using a net to be cast over water, and it spreads incircle or oval shape to cover fish. Weights or chain are
attached to the edges of the net so that the edges will touch thebottom of water. Some nets have its bottoms sewn together tomake a sack so that fish in the net would be collected in thatpart. If the net is not sewn and flat, fishers catch fish in the netby hand after it is cast. It is used widely in rivers, marshes,and lakes and ponds. It is mainly used by men.

<Drying pond>
This method is used during dry season where people pump out
water from a pond to collect fish that are left behind. Whenwater became very low, people go into water with sieves, lift
nets, or catch fish by hand. This method is often done bylarge groups such as teams, families, and sometimes a wholecommunity. To do this, they need to purchase a permit fromthe owner of the pond, but the income surpasses the investment.
It is like an annual event during dry season. The catch is verylarge so even it requires heavy labor, people enjoy and lookforward to this like a party.
<Fish Trap>
A cylindrical bamboo trap which is put in water run off or in
the stream in paddies and waterways.
There is a one-way
valve so that a trapped fish cannot exit back. Often bait is used
when it is used in stagnant waters. One can purchase this inmarkets and stores so anyone can easily obtain it.

<Bag net>
A bag net is used in water run off or in the stream in paddies
and waterways. Fish in the net cannot escape because offalling water or water flow. Small to medium-sized fish arecaught. This is used often in rain season.
55

Morphology of Fish
DorsalCaudalPectoral fin
Pelvic fin

Anal fin

Body length
Total length

Spine
Adipose fin

Barbels

Line pattern

Compressiform

Horizontal

Depressiform

Cross-section profile

Vertical56Order: Rajiformes
Family: Dasyatidae

Dasyatis laosensis
LA

Pa fa lai

KH

Tray bobail krobaiTH

Pla kraben，Pla ben

VN

Ca duoiCá đuối

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed along the Mekong River basin (Laos,
Thailand, and Cambodia).

07 Nov. 2008 Phoshy Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

It body is flat and circular.

There is a string-like tail which is longer than the body, andbears a venomous spine on the upper surface.
Use
A small number is being sold at the markets.

In Louang

Phrabang in Laos, it is caught often and is famous as ediblefish.

It is used in soup such as Tom yum, or seasoned withherbs and fish sauce to be steamed in banana leaves. Stale
rays have strong ammonium odor which makes the wholemarket stink.

It is collected from mainstream of Mekong.

57

30 Jun. 2010 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Osteoglossiformes
Family: Notopteridae

Notopterus notopterus
LA

Pa tong dang，Pa tong na

KH

Tray slaat

TH

Pla chalet (salat)，Pla tong

VN

Ca that lat

Cá thát lát

JPNaginata-namazu

ナギナタナマズ

Remarks

Basic InformationItisdistributed

from

India

to

Southeast

25 Juｌ. 2008

Asia.

Bo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Notopteridae are deep-bodied, and laterally compressed.
Its anal fin is long and is fused with the caudal fin. This
species is the smallest in the Notopteridae family, and its
length is 50 to 60cm at the most, but it is usually muchsmaller.

Its color is bronze to silver gray without

distinctive patterns; however, the juvenile has stripes.
lives in lakes, flood plains, waterways, and ponds.

It

It is

active from evening to the night, and feeds on insects andother fish.

30 May 2009 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
It is eaten by putting it in Laap, soup, meat balls, fried fish cakes, or being smoked. Its fried fishcake is made by scraping the meat off from the skin with a spoon, and rolling it into a ball, and deep
frying it.

In Laos and northeast Thailand, it is also used as an ingredient for Padaek (fish sauce).

In general, Notopteridae fish is used as common ingredients for Laap and fish paste. It is caught
by cast net, gill net, trap or weir.

Other than Notopterus notopterus within the Notopteridae,

culinary use of Chitala blanci and Chitala ornate are confirmed.

Notopterus notopterus, but they are used in the same manner.

58

These two species are larger than

25 Juｌ. 2008

Notopterus notopterus Chitala blanci

Bo, Vientiane Province, Laos

12 Sep. 2007

28 Nov. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

28 Nov. 2010

59

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Osteoglossiformes
Family: Notopteridae

Chitala blanci
LA

Pa tong kay

KH

Tray ka-ey，Tray k’ai

TH

Pla tong lai

VNJPRemarks

Basic Information
Its length reaches almost 1m long, but 60 to 70cm
individuals are popularly sold in the markets.

There is a

black spot at the base of its pectoral fin.

22 Jun. 2008 Nong Chanh Market,
VientianeCapital, LaosBlack spots on the body, caudal fin and anal fin are connected and form slanted line patterns.

Order: Osteoglossiformes
Family: Notopteridae

Chitala ornata
LA

Pa tong dao

KH

Tray kray

TH

Pla krai，Pla hang pan，Pla
tong lao，Pla tong grai

VN

Ca that lat com

Cá thát lát còmJP
Remarks

Basic Information
Its maximum length reaches 1m, but 40 to 60cm
individuals are usually sold in the market.

A distinctive

line of 5 to 10 large eye-like marking is found along the anal
fin.

60

30 May 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Amblypharyngodon chulabhornae
LA

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Pa sill，Pa taeb kaew

KH

Tray chongwa srae

TH

Pla siew kaew ， Pla dork
gaew，Pla chaw pha

VN

Ca trao

Cá tráo

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia) and Chao Phraya delta.

Its length is 3.8cm,

and the body is laterally compressed.

It is golden color andhas no barbel.

16 Sep. 2007

Arak Svay, Siem Reap,
Cambodia

It lives in slow streams such as waterways

or rice paddies.
Use
It is served boiled or steamed.

In Laos, it is also used as

an ingredient for fish sauce (Padaek).

It is usually sold ina market as a mix with other small fish.
hand-held lift net or cast net.

It is caught by a

It is a familiar fish often

seen around paddy fields.

61

30 Jun. 2010 Khun Neua, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes

Bangana behriLAPa piaKH

Tray pawa mok pii

TH

Pla wa na nor

Family: Cyprinidae

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

Its length is 45cm.

Its mouth has a dent

16 Feb. 2010

Lak2 Market, Champasak,Laoswhich gives the fish unique appearance.
It is herbivorous and feeds on phytoplankton and algae.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, in soup, or in salad.

16 Feb.2010

It is caught by draw net, gill net, or cast net.

Lak2 Market, Champasak, Laos

16 Feb.201062

Lak2 Market, Champasak, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Barbonymus altusLA

Pa viene fai

KH

Tray kahae krohomTH

Pla kapien tong，Pla haang
deang，Pla e jae

VN

Ca he vang

Cá he vàng

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia and Vietnam) and Chao Phraya delta.
up to 16cm and has a deep-bodied shape.
tinged with yellow.

It grows

25 Nov. 2009

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Its pectoral fin is

The pelvic fin, anal fin, and caudal fin

are red, and the dorsal fin is black.

It lives in rivers, andwhen the water level increases, it scatters into the flood
plains.

Many of its local names are based on its red fin.

Use
It is served fried, roasted or in soup.
an ingredient for fish sauce.
net, or trap.

Juveniles are used as

It is caught by draw net, fixed

In Vietnam, it is farm raised.

63

26 May 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Barbonymus gonionotus
LA

Pa pakKH

Tray chhpin prakTH

Pla tapien khao，Pla pak na

VN

Ca me vinh

Cá mè vinh

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam) and Chao Phraya delta, Malay
Peninsula, Sumatra Island, and Java Island.

It is 30cm

long.

It is deep-bodied, but not so much than Barbonymus

altus.

Its caudal and dorsal fin are gray colored while

pectoral and anal fin are pale yellow.

22 Jul. 2008 Naxaikang, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

It lives in rivers,

brooks and flood plains.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, dried, in soup or Laap.
used in fermented sushi.

It is also

Juvenile is used as an ingredientfor fish sauce. It is caught by draw net, gill net, fixed net,
cast net, hand-held lift net, or trap.

It is also raised inextensive farming.

64

Som Pa15 Feb.2010 Savan Say Market,
Savannakhet, Laos

13 Sep. 2007

Phoxai, Vientiane Capital, Laos

04 Nov.2008

20 Feb.2010 Nam Lo,
Bolikhamsai, Laos

22 Jun. 2008

13 Sep. 2007

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

12 Sep. 2007 Nong Nieng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Naxaikang, Vientiane, Laos

13 Sep. 2007

Phoxai, Vientiane Capital, Laos

13 Sep. 2007

65

Phoxai, Vientiane, Laos

Phoxai, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes

Cirrhinus ornatipinnis
LAPa kaeng

KH

Tray riel (ompal)

TH

Pla soi peek daeng

Family: Cyprinidae

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is about 9cm long.

22 Jul. 2008 Phangheng, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Its pectoral, pelvic, andanal fin are colored in orange.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, boiled, dried, or in soup.

It is also used as an ingredient for fish sauce.

Other Cirrhinus fish are used in the same way. Large individuals are used in Laap.

It is caught

by draw net, cast net, gill net, fixed net, and trap. C. cirrhosus is being cultivated.

Cirrhinus ornatipinnis
11 Nov. 2008

Cirrhinus cirrhosus

Thong Khan Kham Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

11 Nov. 2008

Cirrhinus cirrhosus
20 Feb. 2010

Nam Lo, Bolikhamsai, LaosThong Khan Kham Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Cirrhinus cirrhosus
25 Nov. 200966

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Cirrhinus molitorella
22 Jul. 2008

Cirrhinus siamensis

Thong Khan Kham Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

24 Jul. 2008

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Cosmochilus harmandi
LA

Khun Neua, Vientiane Province, Laos

Pa pak ban

KH

Tray kompol bay

TH

Pla nam lang，Pla takak，Pla
dog jokVN

Ca duong bay

Cá duồng bay

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam) and Chao Phraya delta.
length is 60cm, and the body is blue-tinged silver.

Its

07 Nov. 2008 Phoshy Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

Its lips are covered by papillae, and the dorsal ray is serrated.

It lives in rivers during the dry

season and moves to the floodplains during rain season.
Use
It is served roasted, in soup, or Laap.

It is also used in fish sauce and fermented sushi.

caught by draw net, fill net, fixed net or trap.

67

It is

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Cyclocheilichthys enoplos
LA

Pa chok houa liam

KH

Tray ch’kaok

TH

Pla jok, Pla jork

VN

Ca cocCá cócJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, Malaysia,
and Indonesia.

18 Sep. 2007

Old Market, Siem Reap,
Cambodia

19 Nov. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Its length is 55cm, and it has a long dorsal

ray.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot or in Laap.

It isalso used in fish sauce (Padaek or Prahok) and fermented
sushi.

Other fish in genus Cyclocheilichthys are used in

the same way.

It is caught by draw net, cast net, fixed net,

and trap.

68

15 May 2009

Cyclocheilichthys sp.

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

09 Jan. 2011

Cyclocheilichthys repasson

22 Jun. 2008

Cyclocheilichthys repasson

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

02 Aug. 2010

Cylocheilichthys repasson

02 Aug. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Nakhouy, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Cyclocheilichthys armatus

Nakhouy, Vientiane Capital, Laos

30 May 2009

Cyclocheilichthys apogon

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Cyclocheilichthys repasson

29 Nov. 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

25 Jul. 2008

69

Bo, Vientiane Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes

Cyprinus carpio
LA

Pa nai

KH

Tray kap samain，Tray srok
chan

TH

Pla nai

Family: Cyprinidae

VN
JP

koi

コイ

Remarks

Basic Information
It originates in Eurasia and is introduced to various partsof the world including Indo-China Peninsula.

Its length is

24 Oct. 2009 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

80cm and has 2 pairs of barbels.
Base of its dorsal fin is long, and the pectoral fin is located in lower part of the body.
omnivorous and feeds on shells, sludge worm, and aquatic plants.

It is

It sucks in the mud and sandwhich contain the food, by stretching its mouth.
Use
It is served roasted, steamed, in soup or Laap. It is caught by draw net or gill net.

Its farming is

also very popular.

24 Oct. 2009
Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

May.2009

08 Nov. 2008 Tha Heua Market,
Louang Phrabang, Laos

Vientiane Capital, Laos70

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Esomus metallicus
LA

Pa sill nouad

KH

Tray chongwaa phlieng(ch’nout)
Pla siew nuad yaw

THVN

Ca long tong sat

Cá long tong sắt

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, Cambodia
and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, Salween delta, and northof Malay Peninsula.

It is 5.5cm long.

prominent black lateral stripe.

10 Sep. 2007 Phoxai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

There is a

The maxillary barbels arevery long. Its pectoral fin is long, but it does not reach theventral fin.

Its close species, E. longimanus, has a pectoral

fin that extends to the ventral fin. It lives in slow streams
and stagnant water.

A school of this fish is often seen in theshallow waters of marsh and paddy fields.

It is also foundin a temporary aquatic environment such as submerged roador grassland during the rain season.

18 Jul. 2010

Mok paVientiane Capital, Laos

Use
It is served fried, steamed, cooked in a pot, or in soup.
Prahok).

It is also used in fish sauce (Padaek and

It is often sold mixed with other small fish in the market.

other aquatic insects or beetles.

Sometimes it is sold with

It is caught by draw net, hand-held lift net, hand net, fixed net,

and trap. Since its habitat is in the water near where people live, it is frequently collected byindividuals for domestic consumption; therefore, it is used by people more frequently than one canassume by the amount traded in the market.

It is especially favored in farming villages as an easy

catch of the day.

71

22 Nov. 2009 Na Kom,
Vientiane Province, Laos

17 Sep. 2010. Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

21 Oct. 2010. Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

02 Jul. 201023 Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

12 Sep. 2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

23 Jul. 2008
Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, LaosElai, Vientiane Capital, Laos

22 Jul. 2008

72

Sikeud, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Hampala dispar
LA

Pa soud

KH

Tray khman (so)TH

Pla kasoop，Pla sood jaum

VN

Ca ngua nam

Cá ngựa nam

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is 32cm long. There is a large black blotch

under the dorsal fin.
width.

22 Jul. 2008 Naxaikang, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

The barbels are shorter than the eye

Juveniles resemble Hampala macrolepidota.

It

lives in ponds, lakes, or slow current of rivers.
Use
It is served roasted, in soup, or Laap.
fish sauce (Padaek).

In Laos, it is used in

It is caught by draw net, hand-held lift

net, cast net, gill net, fishing or trap.

H. macrolepidota in
25 Oct. 2010

same genus is used in the same manner.

73

Vientiane Capital, Laos

02 Sep. 2010 Norng Yao,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

08 Feb.2010

20 Aug. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

29 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

29 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

29 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Hampala macrolepidota

22 Jul. 2008

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Hampala macrolepidota

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

30 May 200974

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
LA

Pa kethlaap

KH

Tray kap so

TH

Pla song

VN

Ca me trang

Cá mè trắng

JP

Hakulen

ハクレン

Remarks

Basic Information
It originates in China and eastern Siberia, but is introduced
widely in the world.

Its length is 70cm and is silver colored.

12 Sep. 2007 Hou Kua Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

It is deep-bodied with a large head, and the eyes are locatedlow.

It lives in rivers and lakes and ponds.

It is often

found swimming near the water surface.
Use
It is served roasted, steamed, in soup, and Laap.

It iscultivated and commonly found in markets.
13 Nov. 2008

75

Thaheua Market, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Labeo chrysophekadionLA

Pa piaKH

Tray k’aik

TH

Pla ka，Pla e-tuu，Pla pea

VN

Ca et moi

Cá ét mọiJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia.

It is 60cm long.

Juveniles have a black body, and adults are greyish to blackin color.

All of the fins are black.

14 Nov. 2008 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

It lives in rivers, small

streams, waterways, and floodplains.

It is caught more

frequently when river water level is higher.
Use
It is served roasted, steamed, fried, dried, smoked, salted
and in soup and Laap.
in Southeast Asia.
net, and trap.

It is one of an important edible fish

It is caught by draw net, fill net, fixed

Other fish in the genus Labeo are used in the

20 Feb. 2010

Nam Lo, Bolikhamxai, Laossame way. Labeo rohita is being cultivated.

Labeo pierrei
16 Feb. 2010

Labeo rohita

Lak2 Market, Champasak, Laos

22 Jul. 2008

76

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane Capital,
LaosOrder: Cypriniformes

Mystacoleucus marginatus
LA

Family: Cyprinidae

Pa lang name，Pa lang kaw

KH

Tray temprakTH

Pla kae yok，Pla nam lang，Pla hang lueng

VN

Ca vay xuoc

Cá vảy xướcJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia. It is 15cm long.

There

is a horizontal ray in the front of its dorsal fin.

20 Aug. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Outer edge of the dorsal fin is lined black. The caudal fin is yellowish with black edge.

Blackmottles are scattered on the lateral body.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, stir-fried, in Laap. It is caught by draw net, cast net, and trap.

13 Feb. 2010

Tha Heua Market, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

15 Feb. 2010

Mystacoleucus lepturus
14 Feb. 2010

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province, Laos

77

Savan Say Market, Savannakhet, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Esomus metallicus
LA

Pa sill nouad

KH

Tray chongwaa phlieng(ch’nout)
Pla siew nuad yaw

THVN

Ca long tong sat

Cá long tong sắt

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, Cambodia
and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, Salween delta, and northof Malay Peninsula.

It is 5.5cm long.

prominent black lateral stripe.

10 Sep. 2007 Phoxai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

There is a

The maxillary barbels arevery long. Its pectoral fin is long, but it does not reach theventral fin.

Its close species, E. longimanus, has a pectoral

fin that extends to the ventral fin. It lives in slow streams
and stagnant water.

A school of this fish is often seen in theshallow waters of marsh and paddy fields.

It is also foundin a temporary aquatic environment such as submerged roador grassland during the rain season.

18 Jul. 2010

Mok paVientiane Capital, Laos

Use
It is served fried, steamed, cooked in a pot, or in soup.
Prahok).

It is also used in fish sauce (Padaek and

It is often sold mixed with other small fish in the market.

other aquatic insects or beetles.

Sometimes it is sold with

It is caught by draw net, hand-held lift net, hand net, fixed net,

and trap. Since its habitat is in the water near where people live, it is frequently collected byindividuals for domestic consumption; therefore, it is used by people more frequently than one canassume by the amount traded in the market.

It is especially favored in farming villages as an easy

catch of the day.

78

22 Nov. 2009 Na Kom,
Vientiane Province, Laos

17 Sep. 2010. Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

21 Oct. 2010. Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

02 Jul. 201023 Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

12 Sep. 2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

23 Jul. 2008
Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, LaosElai, Vientiane Capital, Laos

22 Jul. 2008

79

Sikeud, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Hampala dispar
LA

Pa soud

KH

Tray khman (so)TH

Pla kasoop，Pla sood jaum

VN

Ca ngua nam

Cá ngựa nam

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is 32cm long. There is a large black blotch

under the dorsal fin.
width.

22 Jul. 2008 Naxaikang, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

The barbels are shorter than the eye

Juveniles resemble Hampala macrolepidota.

It

lives in ponds, lakes, or slow current of rivers.
Use
It is served roasted, in soup, or Laap.
fish sauce (Padaek).

In Laos, it is used in

It is caught by draw net, hand-held lift

net, cast net, gill net, fishing or trap.

H. macrolepidota in
25 Oct. 2010

same genus is used in the same manner.

80

Vientiane Capital, Laos

02 Sep. 2010 Norng Yao,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

08 Feb.2010

20 Aug. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

29 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

29 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

29 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Hampala macrolepidota

22 Jul. 2008

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Hampala macrolepidota

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

30 May 200981

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
LA

Pa kethlaap

KH

Tray kap so

TH

Pla song

VN

Ca me trang

Cá mè trắng

JP

Hakulen

ハクレン

Remarks

Basic Information
It originates in China and eastern Siberia, but is introduced
widely in the world.

Its length is 70cm and is silver colored.

12 Sep. 2007 Hou Kua Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

It is deep-bodied with a large head, and the eyes are locatedlow.

It lives in rivers and lakes and ponds.

It is often

found swimming near the water surface.
Use
It is served roasted, steamed, in soup, and Laap.

It iscultivated and commonly found in markets.
13 Nov. 2008

82

Thaheua Market, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Labeo chrysophekadionLA

Pa piaKH

Tray k’aik

TH

Pla ka，Pla e-tuu，Pla pea

VN

Ca et moi

Cá ét mọiJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia.

It is 60cm long.

Juveniles have a black body, and adults are greyish to blackin color.

All of the fins are black.

14 Nov. 2008 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

It lives in rivers, small

streams, waterways, and floodplains.

It is caught more

frequently when river water level is higher.
Use
It is served roasted, steamed, fried, dried, smoked, salted
and in soup and Laap.
in Southeast Asia.
net, and trap.

It is one of an important edible fish

It is caught by draw net, fill net, fixed

Other fish in the genus Labeo are used in the

20 Feb. 2010

Nam Lo, Bolikhamxai, Laossame way. Labeo rohita is being cultivated.

Labeo pierrei
16 Feb. 2010

Labeo rohita

Lak2 Market, Champasak, Laos

22 Jul. 2008

83

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane Capital,
LaosOrder: Cypriniformes

Mystacoleucus marginatus
LA

Family: Cyprinidae

Pa lang name，Pa lang kaw

KH

Tray temprakTH

Pla kae yok，Pla nam lang，Pla hang lueng

VN

Ca vay xuoc

Cá vảy xướcJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia. It is 15cm long.

There

is a horizontal ray in the front of its dorsal fin.

20 Aug. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Outer edge of the dorsal fin is lined black. The caudal fin is yellowish with black edge.

Blackmottles are scattered on the lateral body.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, stir-fried, in Laap. It is caught by draw net, cast net, and trap.

13 Feb. 2010

Tha Heua Market, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

15 Feb. 2010

Mystacoleucus lepturus
14 Feb. 2010

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province, Laos

84

Savan Say Market, Savannakhet, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Osteochilus hasseltii
LA

Pa ithai，Pa khao mong

KH

Tray kroh mimayTH

Pla soi nok khao，Pla kae
khom

VN

Ca me lui soc

Cá mè lúi sọc

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia.

Its length is 27cm.

Juvenile has 6 to 8 rows of dark spots on the lateral side,

25 Ju ｌ . 2008
Province, Laos

Phonyang, Vientiane

but they become obscure in adult. Its caudal peduncle hasa large round blotch.
fins are red.

The dorsal, pelvic, anal, and caudal

It lives in variety of habitats such as rivers,

small streams, waterways, marshes, lakes, and ponds.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, dried,
and in Laap.
sauce.

It is also used in fermented sushi or fish

It is often seen in the markets.

Similar genus

Osteochilus is used in the same manner. It is caught by

30 May 2009
Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

draw net, cast net, gill net, hand-held lift net, fixed net, andtrap.

Osteochilus lini
22 Nov. 2009

Osteochilus melanopleurus

Mueng Song Market, Vientiane
Province, Laos

18 Sep. 200785

Old Market, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Osteochilus microcephalus

Osteochilus waandersii

20 Aug. 2010 Vientiane Capital, Laos

13 Sep. 201186

Tha Ngam, Khammouane, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes

Puntioplites falciferLA

Pa sa kang

KH

Tray
chrokaing ， Tray
chrokaing kdaong
Pla sakang kreeb soong，Pla
kamangTH
VN

Ca danh

Family: Cyprinidae

Cá dảnh

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,

20 Aug. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Cambodia, and Yunnan Province, China).
It is 30cm long with laterally compressed deep-body.
pale orange in color.

The pelvic, anal, caudal and dorsal fins are

It has long dorsal fin ray.

Use
It is served roasted, steamed, dried, in salad or soup.

It is also used in chili paste or fish sauce. It

is caught by draw net, gill net, cast net, fixed net, and trap.

18 Nov. 2008 Phoshy Market,
Louang Phrabang, Laos

12 Sep. 2007 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Puntioplites proctozysron
04 Nov. 2008

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

87Order: Cypriniformes

Puntius aurotaeniatus
LA

Family: Cyprinidae

Pa khao mon

KH

Tray ongkot prak stangTH

Pla khao，Pla ta pien song
jud

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam), and Southeast Thailand.

It is

06 Sep. 2010

Dong, Vientiane Province,
Laos

5.5cm long.
Is has a black lateral raw of mottles and a black spot at the base of the dorsal fin.

Juveniles haveblack lateral mottles.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, boiled or steamed.

It is also used in fish sauce.

It is sold at the markets

as well as caught by individual households; therefore, it is frequently consumed as a daily dish.
is caught by draw net, cast net, hand-held lift net, hand net, fixed net, and trap.
at a paddy field.

It

It is often sighted

Other species in the genus Puntius are often caught in marshes and paddy fields

and used in the same way.

Puntius aurotaeniatus
12 Sep. 201123 Jul. 2008
Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

88

Puntius sp.
Ton Vieng Kham, Bolikhamsai,
LaosPuntius jacobusboehlkei

23 Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

24 Mar. 2010 Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Puntius partipentazona

Puntius brevis

10 Sep. 2007 Phoxai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

24 Jul. 2008 Khun Neua ,Vientiane Province, Laos

Puntius stoliczkanus

Puntius orphoides

09 Nov. 2008 Xiangmouak,
Louang Phrabang, Laos

22 Nov. 2009 Mueng Song Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Puntius rhombeus
24 Nov. 2009 Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos89

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Rasbora borapetensis
LAPa sill hang daeng

KH

Tray
chongwach’nout

TH

Pla siew haang daeng

VN

Ca long tong do duoi

sroloung

Cá long tong đỏ đuôiJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, Mae Klong
delta, and Northern Malay Peninsula.

10 Sep. 2007

Phoxai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

It is 4cm long andhas dark lateral stripe. Its base of caudal fin is bright red.
Use
It is served steamed, stir-fried, and cooked in a pot.
also used as fish sauce ingredient.

It is

It is found in themarkets; however, it is more often caught and consumed athome than in a commercial way.
other small fish to be cooked.

It is usually mixed with

It is caught by hand-held lift

net, hand net, fixed net and trap.

Women and children are

R. borapetensis 、
R. rubrodorsalis 、R. spilocerca
12 Sep. 2007

Elai, Vientiane Capital, Laosable to catch small fish including this species with ahand-held lift net near the water, especially during the rainseason.

Rasbora rubrodorsalis and R. spilocerca are often caught together. It is consumed daily and is afamiliar fish for people in a rural area.

Other species in the genus Rasbora are used in the samemanner.

90Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Rasbora rubrodorsalis
LAPa sill

KH

Tray chongwa sroloung

TH

Pla siew haang daeng

VN

Ca long tong

Cá long tong

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia), Chao Phraya delta, and Mae Klong delta.

It is3.3cm long with bright red base of dorsal and caudal fins.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Rasbora aurotaenia
LA

Pa sill

KH

Tray chongwa moulTH

Pla siew kwai

VN

Ca long tong da

22 Jul. 2008 Phangheng, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Cá lòng tong đáJPRemarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam).

It grows up to 11.8cm.

It has a

12 Jan. 2011

Vientiane Capital, Laosdark lateral stripe.
Its origin of the dorsal fin is closer to the base of the caudal fin than to the eye.

91Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Rasbora dusonensis
LAPa sill

KH

Tray chongwa

TH

Pla siew haang daum，Plasiew aowVN

Ca long tong

Cá long tong

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, Vietnam, and Yunnan Province in China), Chao

30 May 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Phraya delta, Malay Peninsula, Borneo Island, andSumatra Island.
It is 12cm long with a dark lateral stripe. Its origin of the dorsal fin is closer to the eye than to thecaudal fin base.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Rasbora dorsinotata
LAPa sill

KH
TH

Pla siew

VN

Ca long tong

Cá lòng tong

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos and Northern
Thailand).

It is 4.3cm long with a black tipped dorsal fin.

It has a lateral stripe which is broader at the anterior to thedorsal fin origin, and the posterior part is connected to theblack mottle at the caudal peduncle.

92

24 May 2009 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Rasbora paviana
LA

Pa sill eao

KH

Tray chongwa phnomTH

Pla siew khang lai

VN

Ca long tong

Cá lòng tong

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, Mae Klong

Apr.2009

Vientiane Capital, Laosdelta, and Northern Malay Peninsula.
It is 7.5cm long.

Its dark lateral stripe is connected to the dark mottle at the base of caudal fin.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Rasbora spilocerca
LAPa sill

KH

Tray chongwa pout toui(ch)TH

Pla siew daok khao noi

VN

Ca long tong

Cá lòng tong

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is 2.6cm long.

Its caudal fin is yellow with

3 black blotches, including one at the base of the fin.

93

02 Sep. 2009 Norng Yao, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Gyrinocheilidae

Gyrinocheilus pennockiLAPa kaw

KH

Tray smok

TH

Pla nam pueng，Pla doodVN

Ca bam daCá bám đá

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is 25.5cm long.

It has no barbels andeach fin has black spots.

24 Jun. 2010 150 Tieng Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
It is served roasted, steamed, and in soup.
fish sauce in Laos.

It is used in

It is caught by draw net, gill net, fixednet, trawling or trap.

15 Feb. 2010 Savan Say Market,
Savannakhet, Laos94

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cobitidae

Acantopsis spp.
LA

Pa hak kouay

KH

Tray ruh cheikTH

Pla rak kuay

VN

Ca khoai song

Cá khoai songJP
Remarks

Basic Information
Some species exceed 20cm long.

Its snout is long with apair of barbels. Its caudal fin is a shallow fork.

Severalspecies exist in Indo-China Peninsula.

Acantopsis sp. ”large spot”（Kottelat,2001)，

Acantopsis sp. 1 （Rainboth,1996）
03 Sep. 2010 Vang Hou, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Use
It is served fried, roasted, and dried, and also used in fishsauce. It is often sighted in the markets.

It is caught bydraw net or fixed net.

03 Sep. 201095

Vang Hou, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Acantopsis sp. 1 （Rainboth,1996）

30 Dec. 2009

Acantopsis sp.2
30 Dec. 2009 Vientiane Capital, Lass

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Acantopsis sp. 1 （Rainboth,1996）

03 Jan. 2010

Acantopsis sp. 3

Vientiane Capital, Laos

03 Jan. 2010

Acantopsis sp.

03 Jan. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

19 Jan. 2013

Vientiane, Laos

96

Champasak, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes

Lepidocephalichthys hasselti
LAPa eathKH

Tray rus kamplaok

TH

Pla id，Pla rak kuay

VN

Ca heo rau

Family: Cobitidae

Cá heo râu

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia.

It length is 4.5cm.
Lepidocephalichthys hasselti
25 Juｌ. 2008 Bo, Vientiane Province, Laos

Use

It is served fried, roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, and dried.
is used as fish sauce ingredient.

When it is caught in abundance, it

It is caught by hand net, hand-held lift net, fixed net, and trap.

It is not frequently sold in the markets, but is caught and used often at homes.

Lepidocephalichthys berdmorei and L. furcatus in the same genus are also widely in use.

Lepidocephalichthys hasselti

Lepidocephalichthys berdmorei

24 Jan. 2010 Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

13 Feb. 2010 Tha Heua Market,
Louang Phrabang, Laos

Lepidocephalichthys furcatus
23 Jun. 2008 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos97

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cobitidae

Yasuhikotakia modestaLA

Pa mou，Pa mou man，Pakheokai

KH

Tray kanchruk krohom

TH

Pla mu，Pla mu kao

VN

Ca heo vach

Cá heo vạchJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam).

It is 25cm long.

A black

vertical stripe is present at the base of caudal fin.
fin is orange, and the caudal fin is deeply forked.

Each

29 Jun. 2010 Ban Khun Market, Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

There isa sharp spine at below and anterior to the eye, but it isusually tucked in.
stripes.

Juveniles have 7 to 8 dark lateral

It is mainly found in rivers.

Use
It is served fried, roasted, dried or in soup.

It is also usedin fish sauce and fermented sushi. It is caught by drawnet, push net, and trap.

Other species confirmed in genus

Yasuhikotakia are Y. lecontei, Y. caudipunctata, and Y.
eos. Similar genus Syncrossus is used in the same way.
Its Lao and Thai names mean “wild boar (hog) fish”, which
is derived from the spine under the eye.

98

29 Jun. 2010 Ban Khun Market, Market,
Vientiane Province, LaosYasuhikotakia lecontei

29 Jun. 2010 Ban Khun Market, Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

30 Dec. 2009

Yasuhikotakia caudipunctata

27 Jan. 2013 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

19 Jan. 201319 Jan. 2013

Synrossus helodes

Lak2 Market, Champasak, Laos

99

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Yasuhikotakia eos

Lak2 Market, Champasak, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes

Schistura spp.
LA

Pa phan

KH

Tray kanchrieit

TH

Pla khor

Family: Balitoridae

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It body is slender with horizontally compressed head.

Its

scales are small and the posterior caudal fin is a shallow
fork.

Schistura ephelis
24 Aug.2009 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Use
It is served fried, roasted, and dried. It is caught by draw net and trap.

14 Nov. 2008

24 May 2009

Schistura porthos

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

11 Feb.2010

Schistura sp.
Xiangmouak, Louang Phrabang, Laos

100

Mouth, Louang Phrabang, Laos

Order: Characiformes
Family: Characidae

Piaractus brachypomus
LA

Pa vee，Pa hou xang，Pa ja la
mit

KH

Tray chaap

TH

Pla jalamet nam jeudVN

Ca chimCá chimJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It originates in South America, and those found in
Indo-China Peninsula are transplanted.

It resembles afish in Cyprinidae family, but can be distinguished by its

06 Sep. 2010 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laospresence of the adipose fin.
Use
It is served fried, steamed, in Laap or in soup.
cultivated in places such as dams.

It is

It is confirmed in amarket in Laos, but it seems to be not a familiar fish forthe locals.

Lap pa06 Sep. 2010 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos101

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Bagridae

Hemibagrus filamentus
LA

Pa kothdam

KH

Tray ta nel

TH

Pla kodVN

Ca langCá lăng

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, Cambodia,
and Vietnam).

It is 35cm long.

18 Sep. 2007 Old Market,
Siem Reap, Cambodia

The genus Hemibagrus is a catfish in Bagridae family with very long barbels.

It resembles genus

Mystus in the same Bagridae family, but can be distinguished by the length of its adipose finmeasuring the same or shorter than the length of base of the anal fin.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, steamed, boiled, or in soup. It is caught by draw net, gill net, fixed net,
Other Hemibagrus species are commonly sold at the market, and they are used infishing, or trap.

the same way as this species.

Hemibagrus filamentus
26 Jul. 2010

Hemibagrus spilopterus

Mueng Song, Vientiane Province,
Laos

18 Nov. 2008 Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

102

Hemibagrus wyckii
14 Nov. 2008

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Hemibagrus wyckioides
2008.Jul.28

Hemibagrus sp. (cf. nemurus)
24 May 2009

Vang Vieng Market, Vientiane
Province, Laos

103

Thong Khan Kham Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Bagridae

Mystus mysticetusLAPa khayang

KH

Tray kanchoh ch’nout

TH

Pla kha yaeng kang lai

VN

Ca chot soc

Cá chốt sọcJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos and Thailand) andChao Phraya delta.

12 Sep. 2007 Nong Nieng, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

It is 13cm long and is a catfish in thegenus Mystus in the Bagridae family with very long barbels.
It resembles genus Hemibagrus, but can be distinguished by
the length of its adipose fin being longer than that of base of
the anal fin.

The adipose fin is shorter than that of others

in genus Mystus.

It has 3 dark and 2 white indistinct

lateral stripes.
11 Sep. 2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
It is served fried, roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, dried, or in soup.
net, fixed net, cast net, fishing, and trap.

It is caught by draw net, gill

Other Mystus species are sold frequently in the market,

and they are used in the same way.

104

12 Sep. 2007 Nong Nieng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

19 Nov. 201112 Sep. 2007 Nong Nieng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Mystus albolineatus

Mystus mysticetus

Haignon-mai, Vientiane Province,
Laos

03 Nov. 2008

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Bagridae

Mystus albolineatus
LAPa kha yaeng khoo

KH

Trey kanchoh baaiTH

Pla kha yaeng

VN

Ca chot nguaCentral Market, Phnom Penh,
Cambodia

Cá chốt ngựaJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia) and Chao Phraya delta.

It is 35cm long with alarge adipose fin and a narrow white lateral stripe.

105

15 May 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Bagridae

Mystus atrifasciatusLAPa kha yang noy

KH

Trey kanchoh stangTH

Pla kha yaeng kang lai

VN

Ca chot vang

Cá chốt vàng

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia), Chao Phraya delta, and Mae Klong delta.
12.5cm long.
stripes.

It is

19 Aug. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

It has 3 dark and 2 white vague lateral

Its adipose fin is large.

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Bagridae

Mystus singaringan
LAPa khayang

KH

Tray kanchoh baai soTH

Pla kha yaeng bai kao

VN

Ca chot

Cá chốt

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, Cambodia,
and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, and Sundaland.
30cm long with no lateral stripe.

It is

The adipose fin is large.

106

22 Jul. 2008 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Bagridae

Pseudomystus siamensis
LA

Pa khee hiay

KH

Tray kanchoh t’moTH

Pla khi hea

VN

Ca chot bong

Cá chốt bông

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia) and Chao Phraya delta.
deep body.

22 Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

It is 15cm long with a

It has short barbels and distinctive black andyellow stripes.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, and insoup.

It is caught by draw net, gill net, and cast net.
30 May 2009 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos107

Order: Siluriformes

Belodontichthys truncatus
LA

Family: Siluridae

Pa khob

KH

Tray klang haaiTH

Pla kang beung

VN

Ca tren rang

Cá trèn răngJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta and Chao Phraya delta.
It is 60cm long and laterally compressed in whole.

It hasan upturned mouth with conspicuous large teeth.

The

13 Feb. 2010

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

pectoral fin is longer than its head, and the dorsal fin issmall. The base of anal fin is long.
Use
Large sized individuals are sold at the market.

It is served fried, roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot,

and in soup.

26 Nov. 2009

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

26 Nov. 2009108

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane Capital,
LaosOrder: Siluriformes

Kryptopterus apogon
LA

Pa pik kai

KH

Tray kehTH

Pla nam ngueng

Family: Siluridae

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andYunnan Province, China), Chao Phraya delta, Malay
Peninsula, Sumatra Island, and Borneo Island.
70cm long and is laterally compressed.

It is

It has a long

13 Feb. 2010

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laosanal fin and no dorsal fin.
The caudal fin is split in a fork.

2 pairs of barbels are present with ones on the lower jaw being

shorter than the diameter of an eye.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot in a pot, dried, and in soup.
flesh. It is caught by draw net, gill net, cast net, fixed net, and trap.

Other Kryptopterus areused in the same manner.

Kryptopterus sp.
03 Nov. 2008 Central Market,
Phnom Penh, Cambodia

19 Nov. 2009 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Kryptopterus geminus

24 Jul. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos109

It has soft whiteOrder: Siluriformes
Family: Siluridae

Ompok bimaculatus
LAPa xeuam

KH

Tray ta aon，Tray kromomTH

Pla neua on，Pla cha on

VN

Ca tren bau

Cá trèn bầu

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is widely distributed in South Asia to Southeast Asia. It
is 40cm long and has a laterally compressed body.

Thebase of anal fin is long and the dorsal fin is relatively larger
than the other catfish.

09 Sep. 2010 Thating Hang,
Savannakhet, Laos

The caudal fin is forked and thepectoral fin has a distinctive black blotch on the upper side.
Its snout is small; it does not reach the eye.

It lives in aslow current of rivers, small streams, and waterways.

It

can be spotted frequently in a paddy field or marsh when
the river water level is high.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, and
12 Nov. 2008

Nongsa, Vientiane Province,
Laos

It is said that its taste deteriorates rather quickly as it loses freshness.

It is caught by draw net,

dried.

It is a commonly sighted catfish in the market with

20 to 30cm individuals being the most popularly sold.
Roasting is the most popular method, and the ones readyfor roasting, which are seasoned with salt or marinatedwith fish sauce, are sold.
cast net, hand-held lift net, fixed net, and trap.

110

22 Jul.2008

Sikeud, Vientiane Capital, Laos

28 Jun. 2010

Mueng Song, Vientiane Province,
Laos

22 Jul.2008

Sikeud, Vientiane Capital, Laos

24 Aug.2009

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

10 Feb. 2010

111

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Siluridae

Wallago attu
LA

Pa khao

KH

Tray sondai，Tray kropoat，Tray ch’kae nii

TH

Pla khao kao

VN

Ce leoCá leoJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is widely distributed from India to Southeast Asia.

It isa large catfish that exceeds 1m, and sometimes grows
almost to 2m.

Its body is laterally compressed with ahorizontally compressed head.

Base of the anal fin is longand the caudal fin is forked.

The pectoral fin is round.

28 Jul. 2008 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Its snout is very large and reaches posterior edge of the eye.
It lives mainly in rivers.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, and insoup.

Even the roe is said to be tasty.

50cm to 1m

individuals are popularly sold in the markets. It can be
distinguished easily in the market because of its size andthe large mouth.
It is caught by draw net, gill net, and fishing.

09 Sep. 2007 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

It is called by different names at different stages of

its growth in Cambodia.

112Order: Siluriformes
Family: Pangasiidae

Pangasianodon gigas
LA

Pa beuk

KH

Tray riei(ch)TH

Pla buakVN

Ca tra dau

Cá tra dầuJP

Mekon-oo-namazu

メコンオオナマズ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam).

It is one of the largest

freshwater fish in the world with a measurement at 3m anda weight at 350kg.

14 Nov. 2008 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

The body is stout with its eyes locatedlow.

The ventral side is white and the dorsal side is silvergray.

The mouth is located at the top of a snout.

Itscaudal fin is forked and a small adipose fin is present.
Juveniles have teeth and barbels, but they disappear when
they reach the length of 30 to 50cm.

It lives in Mekong

river and migrates long distance.

Juveniles feed on

zooplankton, and adults feed mainly on algae.
20 Sep.2009

Use
It is rarely seen in the markets.
soup.

Sannayao, Chiang Rai,
Thailand

It is served fried, roasted, steamed, boiled, cooked in a pot, and in

It is also used in a fish sauce and fermented sushi.

It has red flesh, and in Davidson’s book(Davidson, A. (2003) Fish and Fish Dishes of Laos, pp.66-67. Prospect Books), its steak is referredas the tastiest by charcoal grilling. Each part of the fish has suitable way of cooking; for example,
the liver is thinly sliced and salted for roasting, and the head is used in soup, etc. Even its roe isup for consumption. It is said that the tastiest part is in mid lateral, closer to the head. It iscaught by gill net.

Its number is rapidly decreasing in recent years.

In Thailand, research for its

cultivation is in progress, and artificially hatched juveniles have been experimentally released.
Farmed individuals are also said to be traded. It is not eaten very often in Cambodia because it isconsidered an unlucky fish.

Moreover, Cambodian fishery administration is protecting it byissuing penal rules, so in case of collecting and consumption, it is 3 million riel fine, and an informer
would receive a 50 US dollars reward.

113

07 Nov, 2008 Phoshy Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

20 Sep.2009

20 Sep. 2011 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

20 Sep. 2011

Sannayao, Chiang Rai, Thailand

20 Sep. 2011 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Vientiane Capital, Laos

20 Sep. 2011

114

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Siluriformes

Pangasianodon hypophthalmus
LA

Pa swai

KH

Tray praa ，Tray praa thomTH

Pla sauy，Pla swai

VN

Ca traFamily: Pangasiidae

Cá traJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, Cambodia,
and Vietnam) and Chao Phraya delta.

It is 1.3m long. It

14 Sep. 2011 Na Bo Market,
Khammouane, Laos

resembles Pangasianodon gigas but can be distinguished byits developed teeth and barbels.
Juveniles have 2 black lateral stripes.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, dried, in soup or in curry.
very popular in Thailand and Vietnam.

24 Jan. 2013

It is caught by draw net, gill net, fixed net, and trap.

Pakse New Market, Champasak, Laos

20 Feb. 2010

Its cultivation is

14 Nov. 2008

Nam Lo, Bolikhamsai, Laos

115

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane Capital,
LaosOrder: Siluriformes
Family: Pangasiidae

Pangasius conchophilus
LA

Pa phow

KH

Tray kaeTH

Pla phor

VN

Ca hu

Cá hú

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam) and Chao Phraya delta.

It is 1mlong and has a dark grey dorsal color with pearly luster.

09 Nov. 2008

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

The genus Pangasius, which this species belongs to, is
known to have a stout body, a developed spine of dorsal andpectoral fin, a forked caudal fin, anal fin with a long base,and 2 pairs of barbels.
Its appearance is close to genus Pangasianodon, but can be distinguished by lesser number of pelvic
soft rays.
Use
It is served roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, and in soup.
net, and trap.

Other species in Pangasius are used in the same manner.

Pangasius larnaudii
18 Sep. 2007

It is caught by draw net, cast net, gill

Pangasius macronema

Old Market, Siem Reap, Cambodia

15 May 2009

116

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Siluriformes

Bagarius yarrelli

Family: Sisoridae

LAPa khae

KH

Tray krobai thomTH

Pla khae，Pla took kae

VN

Ca chien

Cá chiên

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed from India to Borneo Island.
long with a thick body.

It is 1.4m

It has a solid dorsal spine, an

14 Sep. 2011 Na Bo Market,
Khammouane, Laos

adipose fin, a forked caudal fin, and broad barbels.
The adipose fin originates above or anterior to the origin of the anal fin.

It lives in rivers.

Use
It is served stir-fried, blanched, cooked in a pot, or in soup.
caught by draw net, gill net and fishing.

It is also used in a fish sauce.

It is

Bagarius bagarius in the same genus is used in the samemanner.

Bagarius yarrelli
21 Jan. 2013

Pakse New Market, Champasak, Laos

26 May 2009

Tha Heua Market, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

14 Sep. 2011

Bagarius bagarius

117

Khammouane, Laos

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Clariidae

Clarias macrocephalusLA

Pa douk oui

KH

Tray onding ton

TH

Pla dook na，Pla dook oui

VN

Ca tre vang

Cá trê vàng

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam) and Chao Phraya delta.

It is

22 Sep. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

30cm long with a cylindrical body and a horizontallycompressed head.

It has 4 pairs of long barbels, and thebase of dorsal and anal fin are long.

Its habitat ranges

widely from rivers, waterways, lakes and ponds, tomarshes.

Because of its ability to air-breathe, it can be

kept live for a while without water if it is kept moist.
Use
It is an important edible fish in Indo-China, so it is one of

Cheo-Pa douk
08 Jul. 2009 Vientiane Capital, Laosthe most commonly sighted fish in the markets.
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, dried, and in Laap.
can live with little water.
wiggling on a street.

It is easy to keep it fresh because it

Sometimes individuals which escaped from the market can be seen

It was one of frequently used fish in the research of daily meals in Laos. It

is caught by draw net, gill net, cast net, by hands, and trap. Other Clariidae are used in the samemanner, and are being cultivated including Clarias gariepinus which originates in Africa

118

Clarias macrocephalus

14 Sep. 200912 Sep. 2007 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Clarias sp. (cf. batrachus)

20 Feb. 2010

Clarias sp. (cf. batrachus)

Nam Lo, Bolikhamsai, Laos

20 Nov. 2009

Clarias sp. (cf. batrachus)

20 Nov. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Clarias sp. (cf. batrachus)
28 Jun. 2010 Mueng Song,Vientiane Province, Laos

Vientiane Capital, Laos

119

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Loricariidae

Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus
LA

Pa douth fune

KH
TH

Pla sucker，Pla doodVN

Ca lau kinh

Cá lau kính

JP

Madara-loricaria

マダラロリカリア

Remarks

Basic Information
It is native to South America, and those found in
Indo-China are imported.

It is 50cm long.

Its dorsal andpectoral fins are large, and it has a pair of barbels. The

26 Nov. 2009 Hong Kae, Vientiane
Capital, Laosbody is covered with dark mottles, including its ventral
side.

It lives in rivers and ponds.

Its ability to

air-breathe enables it to live even under low oxygen.
When rivers flood, it migrates to the shallow areas such as
marshes.
Use
It is not sighted in the markets very often, but it is servedin soup in Laos.

No other use was confirmed in any other
24 Jun. 2010 Hong Kae, Vientiane
Capital, Laoscountries.

It is assumed that since it is an alien species, it is not familiar as food source for the locals.
caught by gill net, cast net, or when ponds are dried.

120

It is

Order: Beloniformes

Xenentodon spp.
LA

Pa ka thong，Pa sa thong

KH

Tray phtoungTH

Pla kra toong haew

VN

Ca nhai

Family: Belonidae

Cá nhái

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed from India to Indonesia.

Its body isslender and both jaws are sharply extended.

The dorsal

and anal fins are located at posterior.

Xenentodon sp.
03 Sep. 2010 Vang Hou, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Use
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, in soup, and dried.

It is caught by draw net, fixed net,

cast net and hand-held lift net.

Xenentodon cancila
25 Jul. 2008

20 Sep. 2011

Phonyang, Vientiane Province, Laos

Xenentodon sp.
20 Sep. 2011

Vientiane Capital, Laos

121

Xenentodon sp.
Thong Khan Kham Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Beloniformes
Family: Hemiramphidae

Dermogenys siamensis
LA

Pa ka thong

KH

Phting-toch ， Tray phting
toi(ch)TH

Pla sob thaong noi，Pla khem

VN

Ca lim kim ao

Cá lìm kìm ao

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam) and Chao Phraya delta.

Males

are 4cm long while females are 6cm long.

The body isslender and the lower jaw extends sharply.

Its dorsal and

15 Sep. 2007

Tonle Sap, Siem Reap,
Cambodia

15 Sep. 2007

Tonle Sap, Siem Reap,
Cambodiaanal fins are located at posterior, with the origin of dorsal
fin being more posterior than the anal fin origin.

The

posterior edge of caudal fin is round.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, dried, and insoup.

It is caught by draw net, fixed net, cast net andhand-held lift net.

122

Order: Beloniformes
Family: Adrianichthyidae

Oryzias mekongensis
LAPa sill

KH

Tray chongwaa ongkoo

TH

Pla kao sarn，Pla siew khao

VN

Ca socCá sócJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is 1.4cm long with a broad anal fin.

Upper

and lower tip of the caudal fin are bright orange.

It lives

25 Jul. 2008 Naphang, Vientiane
Province, Laosin slow streams such as lakes, marshes, paddy filed,waterways, and ponds.
Use
Due to its small size, it is not actively sought after as food,but it is eaten with other small fish and aquatic animals.
They are cooked in a pot or steamed.
a fish sauce (Padaek).

In Laos, it is used in

It is not found in the market.

caught by a fine-mesh hand-held lift net or hand net.

123

It is

25 Jul. 2008 Naphang, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Cyprinodontiformes

Gambusia affinis
LA

Family: Poecilidae

Pa sill，Pa kin ngung

KH
TH

Pla kin yoong

VN

Ca an muoi

Cá ăn muỗiJP

Kadayashi

カダヤシ

Remarks

Basic Information
Its origin is in Central and South America.

Those found in

Indo-China Peninsula have been imported.

Males are 3cm

23 Jul. 2008

Dong Makkai, Vientiane
Capital, Laoslong while females are 5.5cm long.
The dorsal fin of a female is located at posterior to its anal fin, and the posterior edge of caudal fin isround.

It lives in stagnant water.

Use
It is occasionally sold in the market, but used primarily at home. It is cooked in a pot or steamed.
It is used in fish sauce (Padaek) in Laos.
larger fish.

It is caught by cast net, hand-held lift net, and hand net.

01 Aug. 201023 Jul. 2008

Other than food, it is also used as a bait for catching

Mok paVientiane Capital, Laos

09 Nov. 2008

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital, Laos

124

Xiangmouak, Louang Phrabang, Laos

Order: Synbranchiformes
Family: Synbranchidae

Monopterus albus
LA

Eian

KH

AntongTH

Pla lai，Pla ian

VN

Luon dongLươn đồng

JP

Taunagi

タウナギ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Indo-China Peninsula, Indonesia, thePhilippines, Taiwan, mainland China, Korean Peninsula,and Japan.

15 May 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

12 Sep. 2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

It grows more than 80cm long, with a slenderbody and no pectoral and pelvic fins.

Its dorsal, caudal,

and anal fins are also inconspicuous, that it almost looks
like a snake.

It lacks scales and the body surface iscovered with mucus.

It lives in a stagnant to slow watersuch as paddy fields, marshes, waterways, small streams,
rivers, lake, and ponds. It can air-breathe so that it survives
the waterless dry period by burrowing in a moist soil.

Mature adults actively air-breathe so it even suffers from oxygen deficiency when it is not able tobring its head above the surface in stagnant water.

It is known to reverse sex. When it is small,it lays eggs as a female, and as it grows larger, it becomes a male and participates in mating.
Use
It is an important food source in Indo-China, and it is always found in large markets.
the most frequently found fish in the market.
dried.

It is one of

It is served fried, roasted, stir-fried, in soup and

It is usually chopped with bone-in to be used. Its flesh has slightly distinct aroma, so it isoften cooked with herbs and spices.

Smaller sized ones in the market are sometimes used as inmercy release (In Buddhist belief; releasing a catch into wild is considered an act of mercy).
caught by cast net, by hands, fishing, drying a pond, and trap.
for catching this species.
season.

It is

There is a special bamboo trap justSometimes it is dug out from a pond and marsh bottom during the dry

In the rice planting season, when a tractor breaks up the soil, many fish including thisspecies are found, and people scoop them out with a colander.

125

22 Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

24 Nov. 2009 Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

05 Sep. 2010 Nong Pet,
Vientiane Province, Laos

25 Nov. 2009 Naxaineua,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

30 May 2009 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

30 May 200922 Jul. 2008 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Vientiane Capital, Laos

18 Sep. 2011126

Sainyabuli, Laos

18 Sep. 2011

Sainyabuli, Laos

01 Sep. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

01 Sep. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

01 Sep. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

01 Sep. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

29 Jul. 2010 Pakkagnoung,
Vientiane Province, Laos127

Order: Synbranchiformes
Family: Mastacembelidae

Macrognathus siamensis
LA

Pa loth na

KH

Tray chlowin

TH

Pla lod

VN

Ca chach xiem

Cá chạch xiêmJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam) and Chao Phraya delta.
to 30cm long with a slender body.

It is 20

23 Jul. 2008

Dong Makkai, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Its snout is long, anddistinct rows of blotches are found on the dorsal fin.

Itlives in a stagnant to slow water such as a paddy field,
marsh, waterway, and pond.

It is nocturnal and burrows

in a sand most of daytime.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, dried, smoked, and in soup.

It isnot very large, so that it is often cooked and eaten as awhole, including the bone.
This

speciesis

the

It is often seen in the markets.

most

popularasfood

04 Nov. 2008 Tropeang Thom Khang
Cheung, Takeo, Cambodia

among

Mastacembelidae.
It is caught by draw net, push net, hand-held lift net, hand net, and fixed net.

Other species in

Mastacembelidae, such as Macrognathus semiocellatus and Macrognathus circumcinctus in thesame genus with this species, and several species in the genus Mastacembelus are used in the samemanner.

128

06 Sep. 2010

Dong, Vientiane Province, Laos

24 Jul. 2008

Khun Neua, Vientiane Province,
Laos

29 Nov. 2009 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

24 May 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

16 Feb. 2010 Lak2 Market,
Champasak, Laos

19 Jan. 2013 Ban Watlouang,Champasak, Laos

Macrognathus siamensis

Macrognathus siamensis
Mastacembelus favus

19 Nov. 2009 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

19 Nov. 2009129

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Synbranchiformes
Family: Mastacembelidae

Macrognathus circumcinctus
LA

Pa lothKH

Tray chlowin bongkongTH

Pla lod kang lai

VN

Ca chach ran

Cá chạch rằn

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta. It is 15cm long with aslender body and a long snout. There are 15 to 19 darkvertical lateral stripes.

Order: Synbranchiformes
Family: Mastacembelidae

Macrognathus semiocellatus
LA

Pa lothKH

Tray chlowin kaeo

TH

Pla lod saai，Pla lod lai

VN

Ca chach com

25 Jul. 2010 Warin Chamrap Market,
Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand

Cá chạch cơm

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta, Chao Phraya delta, and
Mae Klong delta.
a long snout.

It is 19cm long with a slender body and

There are rows of unclear circular mottles

under dorsal fin.

130

25 Jul. 2010
Warin Chamrap Market,
Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand

Order: Synbranchiformes
Family: Mastacembelidae

Mastacembelus armatusLA

Pa lathKH

Tray k’chungTH

Pla lard，Pla kra ting

VN

Ca chach lau, Ca chach bong Cá chạch lấu, cá chạch bông

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed from Pakistan to Vietnam and Indonesia.
It is 70cm long with a slender body and a long snout.

It

has irregular reticulated pattern on its lateral side, but it

22 Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laosdoes not reach the ventral aspect.

Order: Synbranchiformes
Family: Mastacembelidae

Mastacembelus favusLA

Pa lathKH

Tray k’chung t’moo

TH

Pla kra ting，Pla lard

VN

Ca chach lau

Cá chạch lấu

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed from Indo-China Peninsula to Malay
Peninsula.
snout.

It is 70cm long with a slender body and a long

It has an irregular reticulated pattern on its lateralside, and it reaches the ventral side.

131

26 Apr. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Perciformes
Family: Ambassidae

Parambassis siamensis
LA

Pa khap khong

KH

Tray kanchan chrah toi(ch)TH

Pla kra jok，Pla pan

VN

Ca son xiem

Cá sơn xiêmJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia), Chao Phraya delta, Mae Klong delta, andMalay Peninsula.
general.

It is the fish which is called glass fish in

27 Jul. 2008

Nathone, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

10 Sep. 2007

Phoxai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

It is 5cm long with laterally compressed andalmost transparent body.
to the eye.

There is a black mottle posterior

It lives in slow currents of rivers, waterways,

lakes and ponds, and marshes.
Use
It is served stir-fried and cooked in a pot. It is also used asa fish sauce ingredient, and is commonly sighted in themarkets.

As it loses freshness, the transparent body

becomes cloudy.

There is also a demand for its aquariumuse.
It is caught by draw net, trap, hand-held lift net, cast net, and fixed net.
and lakes, but also frequently seen around a paddy field.

132

It is often caught in rivers

Order: Perciformes
Family: Nandidae

Nandus oxyrhynchusLA

Pa mohKH

Tray khlaa bangTH

Pla kha baeung phaeng mor，Pla doom set，Pla sue daam

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, and Mae
Klong delta.

It is 7cm long with a deep and laterallycompressed body.

10 Sep. 2007

Phoxai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

10 Sep. 2007

Phoxai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

It has a large mouth which upper jaw

reaches posterior end of the eye.
Use
It is served roasted and fried.
ingredient in Laos.

It is used as a fish sauce

It is sold at the market, often mixed

with other fish or aquatic insects.

It is caught by draw net,hand-held lift net, push net, hand net, and trap.

133

Order: Perciformes
Family: Nandidae

Pristolepis fasciata
LA

Pa ka

KH

Tray kontrop

TH

Pla mor chang yead，Pla khaVN

Ca ro bien

Cá rô biểnJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, Malay
Peninsula, Sumatra Island, and Borneo Island.
long with a deep body.
stripes.

It is 18cm

03 Sep. 2010 Vang Hou, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

There are rows of dark vertical

It resembles Nandus oxyrhynchus, but can be

distinguished by the shorter snout, smaller mouth, androunder body.

It lives in a slow to stagnant water, and canbe found where aquatic plants are abundant.
Use
It is served roasted, fried, and dried.
sauce ingredient in Laos.

It is used as a fish

It is often sold at the market.

It is caught by draw net, hand-held lift net, hand net,fishing, gill net, and fixed net.

134

05 Sep. 2010 Muang Fuang Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Order: Perciformes
Family: Cichlidae

Oreochromis niloticus
LA

Pa ninKH

Tray tilapia chhnout

TH

Pla nilVN

Ca ro phi van

Cá rô phi vằn

JP

Nile-tilapia

ナイルティラピア

Remarks

Basic Information
It originates in Nile River system north of Lake
Tanganyika, Niger River system in Western Africa, andYarkon River in Israel. Those found in Southeast Asia areimported. It grows up to 50cm with 20 to 30cm ones being
the most abundant.

There are 8 to 10 unclear dark,vertical, lateral stripes.
stripes.

10 Sep. 2007 Namxouang Aquaculture
Development Center,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

The caudal fin has clear vertical

During egg laying season, the vertical stripes ofmales disappear, and the edges of dorsal and caudal finsturn to pale red.

It lives in rivers, ponds, and lakes, andalso spotted along waterways among paddy field.

Malesbuild a circular nest at the bottom of sandy mud in whichfemales lay eggs during season.

Females incubate eggs

and grow juveniles in their mouth.

12 Sep. 2007 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
Although it is imported fish, it is one of the most important edible fish in Indo-China.

It is served

roasted, fried, steamed, in salad (Laap), and in soup. When it is steamed, herbs are put into theabdomen to rid the smell.

It is also used as a fish sauce ingredient.

Among many methods of

cooking this fish, salted roasting is the most popular, and it is even seen at the restaurants forforeign tourists.

It is widely cultivated; therefore, it is available in markets throughout a year. It

is often sold alive in a tank, so that people can obtain one fresh. Wild caught individuals are also
sold that are caught by draw net, gill net, hand-held lift net, cast net, fishing, and drying ponds.

135

19 Nov. 2009 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Koi pa nin
27 Jun. 2010 Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

26 Nov. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

08 Nov. 2008

11 Nov. 2008 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

05 Nov. 2010

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

19 Nov. 2009 New Nong Neow Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Laos

12 Sep. 2007

136

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Perciformes
Family: Eleotridae

Oxyeleotris marmorata
LAPa bouKH

Tray domray

TH

Pla boo

VN

Ca bong tuong

Cá bống tượng

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed from Indo-China Peninsula to Indonesia.
It is 65cm long with a stout body.

The pelvic fin is divided

into two, and left and right one does not merge.

There are2 dorsal fins, and its caudal fin is round.

Distinctive

27 Jul. 2008

Nathone, Vientiane Capital,
Laoslateral mottles which are black to dark gray in color arepresent.

It lives in slow to stagnant water, but also seen at

the mouth of a river.
Use
It is served roasted, fried, steamed, and cooked in a pot.

It

is treated as a gourmet fish in Thailand and Cambodia, butsince it can be caught near the villages, it is also available
for ordinary households.

Some restaurants in town that

03 Nov. 2008

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

are equipped with a fish tank serve it very fresh.
It is caught by draw net, gill net, cast net, fishing, and trap.

137

Its cultivation is also being studied.

Order: Perciformes
Family: Anabantidae

Anabas testudineus
LA

Pa kheng

KH

Tray kranTH

Pla mor，Pla sadet，Pla kheng

VN

Ca ro dongCá rô đồngJP

Kinoboriuo

キノボリウオRemarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Sri Lanka to China, Indonesia and thePhilippines.

It is 25cm long, but 10 to 15cm individuals

are the most abundant.

It has an olive colored body andthe bases of dorsal and anal fins are long. The caudal fin

12 Nov. 2008 Namxouang Aquaculture
Development Center, Vientiane Capital,Laos

is round. There is a dark mottle above the origin of pelvic
fin.

It lives in wide range of slow to stagnant water, suchas a paddy field, marsh, waterway, river, lake, and pond.
Its ability to air-breathe enables it to tolerate dryness; thus,
it is often seen in temporary water bodies such as puddles
in a paddy field or streets.

It is also adaptable to various

water qualities, and can be found in soiled water with water
buffalo dungs.

It is able to walk on a land when the

ground is wet.

24 Oct. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
It is one of the most important edible fish in Indo-China.
is used frequently as a daily dish.

It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, and in Laap.

also used as a fish sauce ingredient.
water.

Since it lives near towns and villages, it
It is

It can be sold fresh because of its ability to survive outside

Sometimes ones escaped from a container in a market can be seen walking on the ground.

It is caught by gill net, hand-held lift net, fish basket, by hands, grains, fixed net, fishing, overnight
hook fishing, drying pond, and trap. Smaller scale fishing is more popular.

138

09 Sep. 2010 Thating Hang,
Savannakhet, Laos

23 Jun. 201131 Jan. 2010

07 Aug. 2010 Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Vientiane, Laos

30 May 2009 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Vientiane Capital, Laos

28 Jul. 2010 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos139

Order: Perciformes
Family: Osphronemidae

Betta spp.
LA

Pa kathKH

Tray kroem chulTH

Pla kadVN

Ca lia thia

Cá lia thia

JP

Betta

ベタ類

Remarks

Basic Information
It belongs to Osphronemidae, and it has a smaller andshallower body than others within the family.

It resembles

genus Trichopsis.

The base of anal fin is long, and thecaudal fin is round.

It lives in slow current water.

Betta smaragdina
16 Sep. 2007

Due toArak Svay, Siem Reap,
Cambodia

the ability to air-breathe, it can live in waters with low
oxygen level.

It is very aggressive.

Use
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, steamed, dried orin soup.

Usually, it is cooked with other small fish.

Other

than culinary use, its demand as an aquarium fish or
fighting fish is high, and individuals which are bred andhave bright colors for such purpose are often seen sold in abottle.

Betta spp.
08 Nov. 2008

Louang Phrabang, Laos

Since its aggressive nature, it has to be kept separately in the bottles. There are people who catchthe fish near their house and keep it as a pet in a container.

Betta smaragdina and B. splendens.

140

In this research, we confirmed use ofBetta smaragdina

Betta smaragdina

31 May 2009 Na Ngom,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

31 May 2009

Betta splendens

Betta splendens

24 Jul. 2008 Keun Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

25 Jul. 2008

Vientiane Capital, Laos

25 Jul. 2008 Keun Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Betta splendens

Keun Market, Vientiane Province,
Laos

141

Order: Perciformes
Family: Osphronemidae

Trichopodus trichopterusLA

Pa ka deuth

KH

Tray komphliein sraeTH

Pla kra dee mor，Pla ka derdVN

Ca sac buom

Cá sặc bướmJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia.

It is 10cm long.

Itssoft rays of pelvic fin become strings and extend as long as
its body.

The end of caudal fin has a slit, and there are

numerous dark lateral oblique stripes.

22 Jul. 2008

Sikeud, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Bluish black spots

are present in the center and at the origin of the caudal fin.
Together with the eye, which is used to resemble a third
blotch, those spots give its aquarium name of “three spot
gourami”.

It lives in marsh, waterways, and ponds.

Use
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, dried, and insoup. It is also used as a fish sauce ingredient in Laos.
They are found in abundance around a paddy field and

23 Jun. 2011

Vientiane Capital, Laos

other surrounding areas, so it is frequently used in a dailydish.
It is caught by draw net, hand-held lift net, cast net, fixed net, and trap.

Other species in genus

Trichopodus are used in a same manner, but this species is more common in nearby environment.

142

Trichopodus trichopterus

Trichopodus trichopterus

17 Sep. 2007

Wat Preah Yesu, Siem Reap,
Cambodia

22 Jul. 2008

Phangheng, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

01 Aug. 2010

Napuheuy, Vientiane Province,
Laos

30 Jul. 2010

Khun Neua, Vientiane Province,
Laos

30 Jul. 2010

Khun Neua, Vientiane Province,
Laos

22 Jul. 2008

Phangheng, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

30 May 2009

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos143

Order: Perciformes
Family: Osphronemidae

Trichopodus microlepis
LA

Pa ka deuth

KH

Tray kom phliein phlukTH

Pla kra dee nang，Pla ka derdVN

Ca sac diep

Cá sặc điệpJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is 13cm long with a silvery body.

The end of its caudal

fin is slit.

16 Sep. 2007

Order: Perciformes
Family: Osphronemidae

Trichopodus pectoralis
LA

Pa ka deuth，Pa sa lit

KH

Tray konthooTH

Pla sa lid，Pla bai mai

VN

Ca sac ran

Arak Svay, Siem Reap,
CambodiaCá sặc rằn

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is 17cm long with a slit on the edge of caudal fin.
Numerous black oblique lateral stripes are present.

Some

individuals have a black band running through the eye tothe caudal fin.

144

30 May 2009

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Perciformes
Family: Osphronemidae

Trichopsis schalleri
LA

Pa mathKH

Tray kram tonsaiTH

Pla krim see，Pla maud

VN

Ca bai trau

Cá bãi trầuJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos and Thailand) andgrows up to 4cm.

Soft rays of the pelvic fin are thread-like,but shorter than the body.

Soft rays of the anal fin extend

to middle of caudal fin.

The caudal fin is round andtapered at the end.

09 Sep. 2010 Thating Hang,
Savannakhet, Laos

There are 1 to 2 black lateral stripes.

Edge of the caudal, anal, and dorsal fins is red with
scattered blue spots.

It resembles Trichopsis vittata, but

can be distinguished by lack of the black stripe under theeye.

It lives in stagnant water body such as marsh, pond,

and paddy field.
Use
It is served steamed, cooked in a pot, and stir-fried.
also used as a sh sauce ingredient in Laos.

It is

29 May 2009 Norng Yao, Vientiane
Capital, Lsos

Since it is found in abundance near houses such as a paddy field and marsh, it is frequently used ina daily dish.

It is often cooked with other small fish or aquatic insects or animals.

hand net, hand-held lift net, fixed net, and trap.

vittata is used in the same manner.

145

It is caught by

It is caught often around a paddy field.

T.

Trichopsis schalleri

09 Sep. 2010

02 Sep. 201017 Sep. 2007

Thating Hang, Savannakhet,
Laos

Trichopsis vittata

Trichopsis vittata

Wat Preah Yesu, Siem Reap,
Cambodia

Trichopsis vittata

Norng Bon, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

12 Sep. 2007 New Nong Neow Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

146

Order: Perciformes

Channa lucius
LA

Pa ii jone，Pa ka chon

KH

Tray kanchoun cheyTH

Pla e-jaun，Pla ka song

VN

Ca dayFamily: Channidae

Cá dầyJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia.
30cm.

Its length exceeds

Its lateral side has black mottles, and the ventral

side has rows of oblique stripes.

It lives in slow currents

30 May 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laosof rivers, lakes, marshes, and ponds.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, steamed, dried and in soup.

It is caught by draw net,

gill net, long-line fishery, and hand net.

30 May 200926 Nov. 2009

Nong Chanh Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

30 May 2009

Dong Borng, Vientiane Capital, Laos

147

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Perciformes
Family: Channidae

Channa gachua
LAPa khor kang

KH

Tray k’saan

TH

Pla kang

VN

Ca chanh duc

Cá chành dục

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed from Sri Lanka to Mekong delta (Laos,
Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Yunnan Province in
China) and Bali Island.

Its length exceeds 17cm. Adult

26 Nov. 2009 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

has light orange to yellowish or white tip of dorsal, anal,and caudal fin.

A black eclipse-shaped mottle is present

at the origin of the pectoral fin.

It lives in rivers, small

streams, lakes, marshes, and ponds.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, steamed, dried
and in soup.

Compared to the other species in

Channidae, it is less often sold in the market, but it is afamiliar fish around the villages and is used daily. It iscaught by draw net, gill net, hand net, and cast net.

148

13 Feb. 2010 Tha Heua Market,
Louang Phrabang, Laos

26 Nov. 2009 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

26 May 2009 Nakha,
Louang Phrabang, Laos

26 Nov. 2009 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

24 Feb 2010 Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

17 Jul. 2010
Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

24 Aug. 2010 Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

149

Order: Perciformes
Family: Channidae

Channa micropeltes
LA

Pa do

KH

Tray diep，Tray chhdao

TH

Pla doh ， Pla chado ， Pla
melang pu

VN

Ca loc bong

Cá lóc bông

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, Malay
Peninsula, Sumatra Island, and Borneo Island.

Its

18 Sep. 2007

Old Market, Siem Reap,
Cambodia

length exceeds 90cm. Bold and black lateral stripes arepresent.

Juveniles have 2 black lateral lines and thespace between the lines is colored bright orange.

It lives

in slow current and stagnant water.
Use
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, steamed, dried,
and in soup.

It is often seen in the market, andsometimes individuals over 50cm are found.

This species

and Channa striata are more popular as food source
among Channidae family.

It is caught by draw net, gill

net, trap, and long-line fishery.

150

20 Sep. 2011 Thong Khan Kham, Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Perciformes
Family: Channidae

Channa striata
LA

Pa khor

KH

Tray phtoah，Tray rohTH

Pla chon，Pla khor

VN

Ca loc dong, Ca loc den

Cá lóc đồng, Cá lóc đen

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed from Sri Lanka to Indonesia, thePhilippines, and China.

It can grow up to 90cm long, but

typical individuals are 30 to 70cm.
with white ventral side.
stripes.

It has a dark body

14 Sep. 2011

Houyyon, Khammouane,
Laos

04 Nov. 2008

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Adults have oblique black lateral

Juveniles have an orange-colored body.

It lives

in a paddy field, marsh, waterway, river, pond, and lake.
Sometimes it migrates to temporary a water such as
puddles.
Use
It is the most frequently used species within Channidae
family, and it can represent the food in Indo-China.

It isfound in abundance around a paddy field, so it is easy forpeople to catch and use it daily.

There are several ways of using the fish, including its juveniles and hatchlings.

It is mainly fried,

roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, dried, in soup, and ground to make a paste.

It is particularly

popular to fry or make a soup with it.

Hatchlings are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Itis caught by drying of pond, gill net, bag net, hand-held lift net, fish basket, by hands, fishing, fixednet, and trap.

In Laos, there is even a trap that is named after this species (Chan-Pa khor).

cultivated both commercially and individually.

It is

Individual small scale farms are often extensive,

but locals prefer wild-caught over farmed ones, and they differ in market prices as well.

151

19 Nov. 2009 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

27 Jul. 2008 Nathone,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

17 Sep. 2007 Wat Preah Yesu,
Siem Reap, Cambodia

03 Aug. 2010 Phonekeo,
Vientiane Province, Laos

17 Sep. 2007 Wat Preah Yesu,
Siem Reap, Cambodia

29 May 2009 Norng Bon,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

19 Nov. 2009 New Nong Neow Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

28 Jul. 2008 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

152

12 Sep. 2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

27 Jul. 200917 Sep. 2007
Tonle Sap,
Siem Reap, Cambodia

17 Sep. 2007 Tonle Sap,
Siem Reap, Cambodia

Chan-Pa khor
29 .May 2009 Norng Bon,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

26 Apr. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

28 Nov. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Vientiane Capital, Laos

29 May 2009 Norng Bon,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

153

Order: Pleuronectiformes
Family: Soleidae

Brachirus harmandiLAPa pam，Pa line maa

KH

Tray ondat chhkae khmau

THPla lin maa，Pla line kwai

VN

Ca luoi meo

Cá lưỡi mèo

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia), Chao Phraya delta, and Malay Peninsula.
is 8cm long with a flat body.
rudimentary.

It

Its pectoral fin isNov. 2008 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

It lives in the sand and muddy bottom oflarge rivers.
Use
It is used in soup.

It is caught by draw net, trawling,

fixed net, and cast net.

05 Nov. 2008

154

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Order: Tetraodontiformes
Family: Tetraodontidae

Tetraodon turgidusLA

Pa paoKH

Tray kompot paraTH

Pla pak pao

VN

Ca nocCá nócJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos and Thailand).
is 18.5cm long.

It

Numerous dark orange to reddish mottles

are present on the lateral side.

24 Jul. 2008 Khun Neua, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Use
It is used as food in Laos and Cambodia, but it is not a
popular cooking fish. Although not frequent, it is sold at
the market.

It is served roasted, steamed, and in soup.

Many species of Tetraodontidae family are known to havepoison, but details about freshwater species in Indo-China
Peninsula remain unknown.

During an interview in

Laos, there were tales of people having stomach ache ordied after consuming pufferfish, but the truth needs

24 Jul. 2008 Khun Neua, Vientiane
Province, Laosconfirmation.
It is caught by cast net, hand-held lift net, hand net, fixed net, and trap.
use of T. cambodgiensis, T. cochinchinensis, and T. suvattii are confirmed.

155

Other than this species,Tetraodon cambodgiensis

23 Nov. 2009 Nam Song,Vientiane Province, Laos

13 Nov. 2008 Thaheua Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Tetraodon cochinchinensis

06 Aug. 2010

Tetraodon cochinchinensis

Vientiane Capital, Laos

12 Sep. 2010

Tetraodon suvattii

23 Nov. 2009 Hin Kham Mad Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

156

Sivilay, Vientiane Capital, LaosOther cooking fish
There are many fish being used in Mekong delta, other than those introduced in this report.
assumed that fish that are not frequently used remain unconfirmed.

In this chapter, the pictures,scientific names, and the local names of fish that are confirmed of their use, but lack detailed
information, are introduced.

157

It is

Order: Anguilliformes
Family: Anguillidae

Anguilla marmorataLA

Pa lai fai faa

KH
TH

Pla ian hoo

VN

Ca chinh hoa

Cá chình hoa

JP

オオウナギ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is not often found in market.

It is served in soup
21 Jan. 2013 Pakse New Market,
Champasak, Laos

Order: Clupeiformes
Family: Clupeidae

Clupeichthys aesarnensis
LA

Pa mak phang，Pa sanak

KH

Tray kbok

TH

Pla mak phang

VN

Ca trich xiem

Cá trích xiêmJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It lives in large rivers without much current.

It is dried and served in stir-fry.

It is also used as a fishsauce ingredient.

158

19 Nov. 2009

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Clupeiformes
Family: Clupeidae

Tenualosa thibaudeauiLAPa mak phang，Pa sanak

KH

Tray kbok

TH

Pla mak phang

VN

Ca chay nam

Cá cháy nam

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia and Vietnam).

It has a deep body, and adults

have rows of black spots on the upper lateral body.

It feeds

Tenualosa thibaudeaui
26 Jun. 2010 Vientiane Capital, Laoson phytoplankton and other small food.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Boraras micros
LA

Pa sill

KH

Tray changwa la-et

TH
VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is stir-fried or steamed with other small fish.

It is noteaten as a single cooking fish, but rather is cooked as small
fish collectively.

159

25 Jul. 2008 Naphang, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Danio roseus
LA

Pasill，Pa vien fai，Pa sill
dang

KH
TH

Pla siew

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (North of Laos, Thailand
and Myanmar).

It is 3.5cm long with a pinkish to orange

colored band on pelvic and anal fin.

It has long barbels,

26 May 2009

Nakha, Louang Phrabang,
Laosand is served steamed or cooked in a pot.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Devario gibber
LA

Pa sill khao

KH

Tray
changwaa
phnomTH

Pla siew

phlieng

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos).

It is 6.5cm longwith 3 to 4 dark blue lateral stripes.

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province, Laos160

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Discherodontus ashmeadiLAPa sill hang deang

KH

Tray kontoy krohomTH

Pla haang dang，Pla dangnoi

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is 13.5cm long with a black tip of dorsal fin.

Part of the caudal fin turns bright red.
roasted, and steamed.

It is served fried,

11 Nov. 2008 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

It is also used as a fish sauce

ingredient in Laos.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Hemiculterella macrolepis
LA

Pa kang

KH
TH
VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos and Yunnan
Province in China).

It is 13.5cm long.

Between the baseof the pelvic fin and the anal fin becomes keel.

Dried fish

are sold, and they are served fried and stir-fried.

161

17 Feb. 2010 Pakse New Market,
Champasak, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Hypsibarbus lagleri
LA

Pa pak mon，Pa pak

KH

Tray chhpin sdaengTH

Pla pak，Pla pak nuad

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is 35cm long with a laterally compressedand deep body.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Hypsibarbus pierreiLA

Pa pak ta leung

KH

Tray ch’pun miahTH

Pla pak

13 Feb. 2010 Phoshy Market,
Louang Phrabang, Laos

VN
JPRemarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Vietnam, andCambodia), Dong Nai delta and Malay Peninsula.
25cm long.

162

It is

21 Jun. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Hypsibarbus malcolmiLAPa pak kom

KH

Tray ch’pun moulTH

Pla pak，Pla tapak

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia), Chao Phraya delta, Mae Klong delta, andMalay Peninsula.

It is 40cm long.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Labiobarbus leptocheila
LAPa khilam

KH

Tray khnong veng ， Trayai(ch)kok
Pla khui larm ， Pla laung
khon

TH
VN

Ca linh ray

22 Jul. 2008 Nong Chanh Market,
Vientiane Capital, LaosCá linh rây

JPRemarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia.
dark caudal and dorsal fins.
spots on the lateral side.

It is 26cm long with

Usually it has rows of dark

It is served fried and roasted.

163

22 Jul. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Labiobarbus siamensis
LA

Pa poth，Pa ithai

KH

Tray ai(ch)kok，Tray khnong
veng

TH

Pla sa，Pla moliluay

VN

Ca linh ria xiem

Cá linh rìa xiêmJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia), and Chao Phraya delta.
dark caudal and dorsal fins.

It is 16.5cm long with

Usually it has rows of dark

15 Sep. 2007

Kampong Phluk, Siem Reap,
Cambodiaspots on lateral side.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Onychostoma gerlachiLAPa khing

KH

Tray ronoung ch’nout

TH

Pla soi

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (North of Laos andYunnan Province in China), Ma delta, Red River delta, andNanpan delta.

It is 26.5cm long.

164

24 Nov. 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Opsarius pulchellus
LA

Pa khan heua

KH

Tray ongkot krohomTH

Pla nam mueng

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andYunnan Province in China), Ma delta, and Chao Phrayadelta.
mottles.

It is 10cm long with 7 to 10 dark blue vertical

24 Nov. 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

It lives in rivers and small streams.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Parachela siamensis
LA

Pa tab houa bith

KH

Tray chuntia phlokTH

Pla taeb kaew，Pla tong prus

VN

Ca lanh canh xiem

Cá lành canh xiêmJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia) and Chao Phraya delta.

It is 12cm long with

30 May 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

its ventral side being keel.
The pectoral fin is long, but does not reach the edge of the pelvic fin.
It is also used as a fish sauce ingredient.

165

It is served fried and roasted.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Poropuntius laoensis
LA

Pa jathKH

Tray kroh phnomTH

Pla jard，Pla kayao

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is served fried, roasted, and steamed. It is

used as a fish sauce ingredient.

13 Feb. 2010

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Poropuntius normani
LA
KH

Tray kroh phnomTH

Pla jard

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is served fried, roasted, and steamed.

It is used as a fishsauce ingredient.

22 Nov. 2009 Mueng Song Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

166

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Probarbus jullieni
LAPa eune

KH

Tray trosokTH

Pla yeesok，Pla urn

VN

Ca tra soc

Cá trà sóc

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia), Chao Phraya delta, Mae Klong delta, and14 Oct. 2009

Vientiane Province, Lao

Malay Peninsula.
It is 1m long with distinct black lateral stripes. The caudal fin is black and forked.

It is served

roasted, in soup, and Laap, and as a stake.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Puntius sp. (cf. masyai)
LAPa khao

KH

Tray ongkot prakTH

Pla tapien sai

VN

Ca ramCá rằmJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It has a black blotch in the middle of base of dorsal fin andcaudal peduncle.

It is served fried, roasted, cooked in apot, and steamed.

It is used as a fish sauce ingredient.

167

24 Jul. 2008 Naphang, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Rasbora sp. (cf. steineri)LA

Pa sill

KH

Tray chongwa ch’nout

TH

Pla siew hang daeng

VN

Ca long tong

Cá long tong

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Ma delta, North to Central Vietnam, andSoutheast China.

It is 6cm long with a dark lateral bandthat reaches the edge of caudal fin.

Scaphiodonichthys acanthopterus

Rasbora sp. (cf. steineri)
28 Jun. 2010 Phone Ngeun,
Vientiane Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

LA
KH
TH

Pla moom

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, Vietnam, and Yunnan Province in China), Nam
Xam delta, Da delta, and Chao Phraya delta. It is 31cm
long.

It lives in clear streams in the mountains.

168

29 Sep. 2009 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Order: Cypriniformes

Scaphognathops bandanensis
LA

Pa pian tadam

KH

Tray paphakTH

Pla ta dam，Pla ta pean

Family: Cyprinidae

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand, andCambodia).

It is 18cm long with a pale yellow caudal fin.

It has no barbels and has a blunt sharp snout.

It lives in

08 Nov. 2008

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laosrivers during the dry period and migrates to the branches ofriver or flood plains during rain season.

It is served

roasted, in soup and Laap, and dried.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Sikukia gudgeri
LA

Pa mok mang

KH

Tray kombot chromoh，Trayphneik krohom
Pla kra mang，Pla si kook

TH
VN

Ca danhCá dảnh

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Yunnan Province in Chin) and Chao Phrayadelta.

10 Jul. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

It is 15cm long with a silver body.

It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, and steamed.

169

It is used as a fish sauce ingredient.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Thynnichthys thynnoides
LA

Pa kaum

KH

Tray linTH

Pla soi kred tee

VN

Ca linh cam

Cá linh cám

JPRemarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, Malay

15 May 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Peninsula, Sumatra Island, and Borneo Island.
It is 20cm long with a laterally compressed body and keeled ventral side.
scales.

It lives in rivers, waterways, and flood plains.

It is silvery with fine

It is roasted and cooked in a pot.

It isused as a fish sauce ingredient.

Order: Cypriniformes
Family: Cyprinidae

Tor tambroides
LA

Pa daeng

KH

Tray k’ao

TH

Pla wienVN

Ca ngua xam

Cá ngựa xám

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia.

It is 55cm long with abright ventral side and dark dorsal side.
large.

Its scales are

It is served roasted, steamed, cooked in a pot, in

Laap and soup.

170

07 Nov. 2008 Phoshy Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Pangasiidae

Helicophagus leptorhynchus
LA

Pa naa nou

KH

Tray pra kondolTH

Pla sa wai noo

VN

Ca tra chuot

Cá tra chuột

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam) and Chao Phraya delta.
in rives and river branches.

It lives

13 Feb. 2010

Morpou, Champasak, 2010

It is 47cm long with 2 pairs ofrelatively short barbels.

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Pangasiidae

Pseudolais pleurotaenia
LA

Pa yone thong kom

KH

Tray chhwiet kdaa

TH

Pla yorn taa po

VN

Ca xac bau

Cá xác bầu

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam), Chao Phraya delta, Mae Klong
delta, and Tapi delta.

16 Feb. 2010 Lak2 Market,
Champasak, Laos

It is 30cm long with a laterally compressed body and keeled ventral side.
cooked in a pot.

171

It is served fried andOrder: Siluriformes
Family: Schilbeidae

Clupisoma sinensis
LA

Pa ngon thong

KH

Tray chhwiet prak luangTH

Pla yorn thong

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, Vietnam, and Yunnan Province in China) and
Malay Peninsula.

It is 27cm long with 4 pairs ofClupisoma sinensis
14 Oct. 2009 Vientiane Capital, Laosbarbels.

Order: Siluriformes
Family: Schilbeidae

Laides longibarbis
LA

Pa yone ta loh

KH

Tray chhwiet prakTH

Pla yorn mauk

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, Vietnam, and Yunnan Province in China), Chao
Phraya delta, and Mae Klong delta.

It is 14cm long with 3

pairs of barbels.

172

22 Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Perciformes
Family: Polynemidae

Polynemus aquilonaris
LA
KH

Tray pream sor

TH
VN

Ca phen song

Cá phèn sông

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It was sold in Cambodian water market.
15 Sep. 2007

Order: Perciformes
Family: Sciaenidae

Boesemania microlepis
LA

Pa kouang

KH

Tray promarTH

Pla kuang

VN

Ca suuTonle Sap, Siem Reap,
CambodiaCá sửuJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is cooked in a pot or put in soup.
19 Jan. 2013173

Lak2 Market, Champasak,
LaosOrder: Perciformes
Family: Gobiidae

Brachygobius mekongensis
LA

Pa bouKH

Tray ka-san boeung

TH
VN

Ca bong dieu

Cá bống điếuJP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is cooked in a pot, stir-fried, or steamed with other small
fish and aquatic animals.

22 Jul. 2008 Phangheng, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Perciformes
Family: Osphronemidae

Osphronemus exodon
LA

Pa menKH

Tray romeas

TH

Pla mhenVN

Ca tai tuong

Cá tai tượng

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is served fried, roasted, cooked in a pot, or stir-fried.

It

is also used as an ingredient for fish sauce and fermented
sushi.

174

18 Feb. 2010

Lak14 Market, Champasak,
LaosOrder: Perciformes
Family: Lobotidae

Datnioides undecimradiatus
LA

Pa seua

KH

Tray kontrop khla

TH

Pla suaeVN

Ca huong ven

Cá hường vện

JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Mekong delta (Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, and Vietnam).

It is 24cm long with 4 to 5

distinct vertical black stripes. It is served fried, roasted,
and in soup.

175

2010.Feb.16 Lak2 Market,
Champasak, Laos

Reference
秋道智彌・黒倉寿 編（2008）人と魚の自然誌 母なるメコン河に生きる．世界思想社．
石毛直道・ケネス,ラドル（1987）東南アジアの魚醤 -魚の発酵製品の研究(5)-．国立民族学博物館研究報告，vol.12-2：235-314．国立
民族学博物館．
石毛直道・ケネス,ラドル（2009）魚醤とナレズシの研究．岩波書店．
岩田明久・大西信弘・木口由香（2003）南部ラオスの平野部における魚類の生息場利用と住民の漁労活動．アジア・アフリカ地域研究，3:51-86．
川那部浩哉・水野信彦・細谷和海（2002）山渓カラー名鑑

日本の淡水魚．山と渓谷社．

河野博 編（2001）東南アジア市場図鑑 魚貝篇．弘文堂．
環境省自然環境局野生生物課（2003）改訂・日本の絶滅のおそれのある野生生物－レッドデータブック－4 汽水・淡水魚類．自然環境研究センター．
多紀保彦（1993）魚が語る地球の歴史．技報堂出版．
多紀保彦

監・自然環境研究センター

編著（2008）日本の外来生物．平凡社．

多紀保彦（2012）世界で出逢った魚と人と旨いもの －わが魚類研究の軌跡－．五葉書房．
中坊徹次 編（2013）日本産魚類検索 全種の同定 第三版．東海大学出版会．
山崎浩二・阿部正之（2007）最新図鑑 熱帯魚アトラス．平凡社．
Davidson, A.（2003）Fish and Fish Dishes of Laos．Prospect Books．
Kottelat, M.（2001）Fishes of Laos．WHT Publications (Pte) Ltd．
Phia Sing.（2000）Traditional Recipes of Laos．Prospect Books．
Rainboth, W. J.（1996）FAO Species Identification Field Guide for Fishery Purposes．Fishes of theCambodian Mekong．Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations．
「Cultured Aquatic Species Information Programme Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (Valenciennes,
1844)」 http://www.fao.org/fishery/culturedspecies/Hypophthalmichthys_molitrix/en「Fish Base A Global Information System on Fishes 」 http://www.fishbase.org/home.htm

176

Insects

177

178

Insects―――――――――――――――

Mekong river basin has tradition of eating insects and one sees variety of insects in the market today.
Insects and freshwater fish have been used as good source of protein especially among inland areas.
Although modern advancement of transportation enabled to have food from distance and madeinsects as less important as a sole source of protein, they are still popular as food to enjoy. They
can be a main dish, a snack or an appetizer so they are enjoyed by everybody from elderly to young.
In the cities, insect dishes are available in markets, stalls, and eateries.
In the market, there are insects that are sold throughout year, only in certain season, and only bychance. Geographic difference plays a role and marketed insects change from area to area.
Commonly seen insects are from Orthoptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera．
There are even insects that are very popularly consumed in Mekong river basin yet they areprotected species in Japan. In this study, we recorded more than 120 species of insects, but inreality, there are more species consumed than one can see in market.
Most popular method to cook insects is frying and seasoning it with salt, fish sauce and MSG, or
mix it with chili. Other than frying, they can be roasted, boiled, stir fried, steamed, eaten raw ormixed with chili paste.
Also noted is an insect is cooked differently according to its
development phase of egg, larva, cocoon, and adult form.
Many of insects are common species and caught in wetlands near villages. They are consumed athome as well as sold at markets in exchange of money. Some species such as silkworm (Bombyxmori) and house cricket (Acheta domestica) are cultured to enable stable supply to markets.

There
are suppliers that export them overseas. In this study, approximately 120 species of edible insects
have been confirmed. Those species that lack detailed information are introduced with only
picture and name. Our purpose here is to introduce as many species as possible.

179

The Collection Method
As mentioned before, many insect species are utilized as food source in Mekong river basin.
Various collection methods exist according to species, seasons, and habitat. In this section, we
introduce most popular collection methods.
<Light trap>
This method incorporates fluorescent light and black light which emits strong ultraviolet to be lit
during night. It attracts insects with phototactic behavior. Insects fly into light and hit a piece ofgalvanized metal sheet or cloth set behind the light and drop into a bucket or box underneath. The
bucket or box is filled with water so that fallen insects would not escape. This type of trap is often
set up in one’s yard where it has easy access to electric outlet. The light is shone towards
waterfronts such as paddy fields. The trap is filled with water and lit in the evening, then theycollect the trapped insects in the morning. It is simple and effective. Typical catches are giant
water bug, predaceous diving beetle, water scavenger beetle, termite, mole cricket and others.
Large insects and popular species are sorted out and others are frozen altogether to be sold atmarket or cooked at home. Kinds and amount of insects vary depending on the season, so somepeople set trap throughout year while others only collect during certain seasons.

<Night collection>
In this method, people go out at night with a light. It is a casual walk to paths, forest fridge, or
paddy field near the village. Diurnal insects such as grasshopper which does not move at night areoften caught in this method.

180

<Bamboo colander>
A round bamboo colander is used, or a handle-less net which is spread and fitted in round or
triangular woven bamboo is used to scoop water in. This method is used in shallow water such as
paddy or marsh. Aquatic insect such as dragonfly larva, Ferocious water bug, Water stick insect
and aquatic coreoptera such as predaceous diving beetle and water scavenger beetle are popular
catch. Shrimp, small fish and tadpoles are caught at the same time. It is often used by womenand youth.

181

Morphology of insects
Odonata
Antenna

Forewing
Eye(Compound eye)Head

HindwinThoraxAbdomen

9th 10th

Dorsal spine
Lateral spine

Eighth abdominal segment

Head Thorax【Larva】

Abdomen【Adult】

Orthoptera

Hemiptera
Compound eye

Pronotum

Antenna

Temur

Tibia

Eye
(Compound
eye)

Mouth
parts

Shingle eye

Wing apex

Ovipositor（Grasshopper）(Cicada)182

Coreoptera

Pronotum
Elytra

Femur

Tibia
TrasusSpined process(Water scavenger beetle)(Beetle)Rostrum

Lepidoptera
Wingspan

Puncture series（Billbug）(Emperor moth)183

Order: Odonata
Family:Odonata spp.
LA
KH
TH

Maeng por，Maeng nangam，
Iniaw
Kantomroy ， Dounchy ，MeichahTou on ma lang por bann,Tou on ma lang por seau

VN

Chuon chuon trauChuồn chuồn trâu

JP

Tombo (adult), Yago (larva)

トンボ（adult），ヤゴ（larva）

Remarks

Basic Information
Dragonfly larvae have completely different appearance

Epophthalmia frontalis frontalis
18 May.2010 Laosfrom the adults. The body of a larva is short and thick,usuallycylindrical.

LarvaeofAeshnidae have a

proportion of their body width and length as 1:5.

Larvae ofGomphidae and Macromiidae have flat abdomen, and the
proportion is 1 to 2:3.5.
proportion of 1:4.

Larvae of Libellulidae have

Most of the species are one generation

per year, and larvae are aquatic.

Both adults and larvae
Epophthalmia frontalis frontalis
8 Jul.2009 Laosare carnivorous.
They eat other smaller insects.

Depending of the species, eggs are dropped on a water body or laid

on a plant body in water. When larvae are ready for their final molt, they leave the water andcrawl onto a bank where they will molt into adults.

Newly emerged adults leave the aquatic

environment for a while then come back when they are fully matured.
Use
The dragonfly larvae are primarily used as food.
is not a common habit.

Adults are said to be eaten in some areas, but it

Especially in Laos, dragonfly larvae are used frequently, whereas inCambodia, they are not a popular insect as food.
served.

Larvae are fried, stir-fried, or steamed to be

In Lao market, steamed larvae wrapped in banana leaves are sold.

Adults are roasted orfried to be eaten.
Collection of larvae is usually done by skimming them by using a colander or a hand-held net.
During rain season, collection takes place at shallow water with ample aquatic vegetation, such as
marshes, and during the dry season, it is done at rivers which have decreased water volume.
Several species of larvae are more frequently used, such as Aeshnidae, Gomphidae, Corduliidae,
and Libellulidae.

They are often sold mixed with other small aquatic animals.

introduce species that are often sighted in markets and around water.
many more species used as food other than those written in this report.

184

In this section, we

It is assumed that there areEpophthalmia sp.

04 Sep. 2010

Vang Vieng Market, Vientiane
Province, Laos

10 Jun. 2007

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

14 Oct. 2009

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

06 Sep. 2009

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

09 Sep. 2010

Phon Sim, Savannakhet, Laos

19 Jan. 2013

Lak14 Market, Champasak, Laos

02 Sep. 2010

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

25 Nov. 2009185

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

21 Feb 200916 Sep. 2007

Vientiane Capital , Laos

26 Jun. 2010

Anax guttatus

26 Aug. 2010

Arak Svay, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Sinictinogomphus clavatus

Cambodia

Sinictinogomphus clavatus

Laos

02 Sep. 2010

Ictinogomphus decoratus melaenops

25 Nov. 2010

Mueng Song Market, Vientiane
Province , Laos

Norng Bon, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Ictinogomphus decoratus melaenops

Vientiane Capital, Laos

8 Jul.2009 Laos

186

27 Jul. 2008

Gomphidia perakensis

Jul.2008 Vientiane, Laos

Hydrobasileus croceus

Hydrobasileus croceus

Orthetrum

Orthetrum glaucum

18 May.201023 Jul. 2008

Gomphidia perakensis

Nathone, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Cambodia

12 Oct.2010

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital ,
Laos

Laos

9 Sep.2009 Laos

Orthetrum triangulare

Orthetrum pruinosum neglectum

6 May.2010 Laos

27 Jun. 2010187

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
LaosOrthetrum sabina sabina

16 Aug.2010

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital ,Laos

27 Jul. 2008

Brachydiplax chalybea chalybea

9 Nov.2007 Vientiane Capital, Laos

12 Sep. 2007

26 Jul. 2010

Diplacodes trivialis

Brachydiplax farinosa

Phone Ngeun, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Diplacodes trivialis

Phoxay, Vientiane Capital, Laos

7 May.2010 Laos

Neurothemis tullia tullia

02 Sep. 2010

Brachydiplax

Nathone, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Neurothemis tullia tullia

Vang Hou, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

8 Nov.2007 Siem Reap, Cambodia

188

02 Sep. 2010

Tholymis tillarga

Tholymis tillarga

Pantala flavescens

Pantala flavescens

Norng Bon, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

04 Sep. 201025 Jul. 201026 Jul. 201013 Oct.2010 Laos

12 Oct.2010 Laos

Vientiane Province, Laos

Potamarcha congener

Trithemis pallidinervis

Na Seng, Vientiane Province, Laos

01 Aug. 2010

Trithemis aurora

Phone Ngeun, Vientiane Province,
Laos

26 Nov. 2009

189

Napuheuy, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Diplacodes nebulosa

Dong Borng, Vientiane Capital,
LaosBrachythemis contaminate

28 Jun. 2010

Crocothemis servilia servilia

Mueng Song, Vientiane Province,
Laos

01 Aug. 2010

Rhyothemis triangularis

09 Sep. 201027 Jun. 2010

Napuheuy, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Rhyothemis plutonia

Thating Hang, Savannakhet,
Laos

22 May 2009

Neurothemis fluvia

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

190

Houasang, Vientiane Capital,
LaosOrder: Orthoptera
Family: Gryllotalpidae

Gryllotalpa orientalis
LA

Maeng sone

KH

Tok tolTH

Maeng gi son，Ma lang kra
sone，Krachorn

VN

De nhuiDế nhủi

JP

Kera

ケラ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is widely distributed in Southeast Asia, Australia, andAfrica.

Its length is 30 to 35mm.

30 Jun.2009

Laos

Its front legs areformed so that they are suitable to dig holes and bury itself.
There is no significant difference in appearance between amale and female.

It lives in burrows in the ground of

paddy or farm field.

Both male and female make a sound,and they communicate while being underground.
omnivorous and eats any organic matter.

It is

Adults havetendency to fly during night and gather around the lightsources.

It can swim as well.

02 Jul. 2010 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Use
It is used as food in many areas.

It is often fried, roasted, of stir-fried to be served.

used as an ingredient of chili paste.

In Laos, it is

It has neutral taste, and people like it very much.

is mostly done by light trap method.

191

CollectionOrder: Orthoptera
Family: Gryllidae

Gryllidae spp.
LA

Chinay，Chilo，Chilli

KH

ChongratTH

Ji pon，Chi reedVN

De comDế cơmJP

Koorogi

コオロギ類

Remarks

Basic Information

Tarbinskiellus portentosus

Its body is horizontally flat with black to dark brown color,and its antennae are thin and long.

9 Sep.2008 Laos

Most of the species

live closer to the ground surface, and many are nocturnal.
Adults live hiding behind an object on the ground, or by
digging a shallow hole close to the surface.

It isomnivorous and feed on carcass of small animals or deadplants.
Use
Both adult and larva are used as food.

It is fried, roasted,

or stir-fried to be eaten. In Laos, it is used as an ingredient10,000kip
12 Sep. 2007 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laosof chili paste.
In Thailand, it is blanched first then cooked slowly in a fish paste.
also popularly distributed.

Canned, fried Gryllidae spp. is

Popular species that are sold in markets are large Brachytrupes

portentosus, mid-sized Gryllus bimaculatus, and cultured Acheta domesticus. In Cambodia, B.
portentosus is very popular, therefore it is sold at higher price than other Gryllidae spp.. Other
species confirmed in this study are; Teleogryllus occipitalis, Gymnogryllus vietnamensis, andTeleogryllus sp.. The farming technology of A. domesticus has been studied in advance, and its
farms are widely seen in many areas.

The cultured crickets are fed with artificial diet, and it takes

a little over one month for an egg to become ready for shipping.

Other than being shipped to themarkets, it is also traded as food for pet reptiles to pet stores and zoos.
Collection of Gryllidae spp. takes place at dry paddy field or grass areas by digging soil to find it in
the nest.

192

24 Jun. 2010

Laos

10 Sep. 2010

Laosou Liya, Savannakhet, Laos

Vientiane, Laos

15 Feb. 2010

Yang Song, Savannakhet, Laos

15 Feb. 2010

Yang Song, Savannakhet, Laos

15 Feb. 2010

Yang Song, Savannakhet, Laos

15 Feb. 2010

Yang Song, Savannakhet, Laos

06 Oct. 2010

20 Sep. 2011 Na Bong University,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

193

20 Sep. 2011

Sokham, Vientiane Capital, Laos

20 Sep. 2011

Sokham, Vientiane Capital, Laos

20 Sep. 2011

Acheta domestica

Gryllus bimaculatus
19 May.2009

Gymnogryllus vietnamensis
19 May.2009

Cambodia

Teleogryllus occipitalis
19 May.2009

Sokham, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Cambodia

Teleogryllus sp.

Cambodia

29 Jun.2009

194

Laos

Order: Orthoptera
Family: Tettigoniidae

Mecopoda elongata
LA

Maeng yong yo

KH
TH
VN

Vat sanhVạt sành

JP

Taiwan-kutsuwa-mushi

タイワンクツワムシ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Indo-China, tropical Asia, Taiwan, andJapan (Nansei Islands).

16 Nov.2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Its length is 50 to 75mm. It lives

in a grass area or on a leaf of bushes in forest fringes.

It ismore active during the night, and adult males make a loudsound during the night.
Use
The general use of Gampsocleis spp. will be described inthis section.

People eat only adult Gampsocleis spp..

It is

12 Sep. 2007 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

usually fried or stir-fried to be served, and its legs are
typically removed
when cooking because they tend to prick a person’s mouth.

Gampsocleis spp. is sold in markets,

but it is less often seen when compared to other grasshoppers.
and some people really favor it in Cambodia.
night by flashing a light.
field.

It is popular as homemade dish,Large species are collected by bare hands during the

It is often found in grass, in a bush, or in forest fringe along the paddy

Mecopoda elongate is especially attracted to a light, so it is collected by light trap method.

Small species are collected by swinging a net in the grassland.
grasshoppers will be caught as well, so they are all eaten together.

With this method, other

Other than Mecopoda elongate

in the Gampsocleis spp., Conocephalus maculatus is also popularly used.
used commonly.

195

Other species are also

03 Aug. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

17 Sep. 2011

Conocephalus maculatus
20 Oct.2010

Ducetia curciata

Laos

9 Sep.2008 Laos

Euconocephalus gracilis

18 May.2009

Holochlora venosa

Cambodia

26 Jun.2009

Pyrgocorypha sp.

26 Jun.2009

Sainyabuli, Laos

Laos

196

Laos

Order: Orthoptera
Family: Acrididae

Crytocanthacris tatarica
LA

Takten thong

KH

Kon dob krohom，Kon dob
para

TH

Tak ka tan lai

VN

Cao cao vo, Chau chau

Cào cào vồ, châu chấuJP

Tsuchi-inago

ツチイナゴの一種

Remarks

Basic Information
Female length is about 52mm to the end of wings.
length is about 4.2cm to the end of wings.

Male

24 Sep.2008 Cambodia

Its body isgrayish brown and has distinct dark brown mottle.
Use
The general use of Acrididae, and Pyrgomorphidae in

Orthoptera spp. will be described in this section.

Only

adults are used as food, and it is fried to be served most of
the time. Variety of seasonings are used such as dipping
sauce of MSG and fish sauce, salting to fry, frying with

12 Sep. 2009 Dong Makai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

leaves of Citrus hystrix as a flavor, or frying chili together
to make it spicy.
When eating larger grasshoppers, their legs are removed because they tend to prick a person’s
mouth.

Smaller ones are sometimes stir-fried with other grasshoppers.

by bare hands at night by flashing a light.
collected well by this method.

Larger ones are collected

Crytocanthacris tatarica is a species particularly

Smaller ones are caught by swinging a net in grass areas. In thismethod, other grasshoppers are caught in the net as well, so they are all eaten together.

Other

species that are seen in the markets are Chondracris rosea, Patanga succincta, and Oxya japonica

japonica. Other species which we could not confirm in the markets are eaten in the same way.
Confirmed species are described with basic information below.
are introduced by pictures.

197

Some of other unconfirmed species

Order: Orthoptera
Family: Acrididae

Chondracris rosea
LA

Takten，Maeng meuin

KH

Kon dob kiew

TH

Tak ka tan kha daeng

VN

Cao caoCào cào

JP

Taiwan-oo-batta

タイワンオオバッタ

Remarks

Basic Information
Female length is about 60mm to the end of wings.

Malelength is about 45mm.

4 Sep.2008 Laos

Its body is bright green, with yellowish brown compound eyes.
areas and on the leaves of bushes along the forest edge.
human.

It is usually found in tall grass

It flies away when approached by a

It is mostly active in a daylight.

Order: Orthoptera
Family: Acrididae

Patanga succincta
LA

Takten thong

KH

Kon dob krohomTH

Tak ka tan pa tan ga

VN

Cao caoCào cào

JP

Taiwan-tsuchi-inago

タイワンツチイナゴ

Remarks

Basic Information
Female has about 53mm body length to the end of
abdomen, about 70mm to the end of wings.

24 Sep.2008 Cambodia

Its body is light brown. Its forewings are generally thin and long.
abdomen is distinctively longer than that of other species.

From its dorsal side of prothorax

toward an area where forewings overlap is colored grayish brown.
vertical and broad dark brown bands when seen from the side.

198

Part where wings extend past
Its prothorax has distinctiveOrder: Orthoptera

Oxya japonica japonica

Family: Acrididae

LA

Takten thong

KH

Kon dob smauTH

Tak ka tan kheow

VN

Cao cao xanh, Chau chau

Cào cào xanh, Châu chấuJP

Hanenaga-inago

ハネナガイナゴ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia, China, Taiwan, India
and Sri Lanka.

26 Jun.2009 Laos

Male has a body length of about 17 to 34mm (to the end of wings), and female 21 to 40mm.
Individuals differ in coloration of their body and dorsal side; either yellow green or yellow brown.
In general its body is glossy. There is a dark brown band from behind the compound eyes to theside of the wings when folded.
grasslands.

Both adults and larvae live in a paddy field and surrounding wet

They favor eating leaves of gramineous plants.

19 Nov. 2009

Thong Khan Kham Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

26 May 2009

Na Khan, Louang Phrabang, Laos

31 May 2009199

Na Ngom, Vientiane Capital, Laos

25 Jun. 2010

Crytocanthacris tatarica

Don Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Crytocanthacris tatarica

25 Jun. 2010

Don Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

25 Jun. 2010

Don Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

24 Jun. 2010

Hong Kae, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Atractomorpha sp.

Tagasta sp.

Acrida sp.

Aiolophus thalassinus tamulus

Cambodia

Laos

Cambodia

Laos

200

Calephorus vitalisi

Catantops pinguis

Choroedocus sp.

Eyprepocnemis sp.

Gastrimargus marmoratus

Hieroglyphus banian

Cambodia

Laos

Laos

Laos

08 Sep. 2008 Laos

Cambodia

Locusta migratoria

Patanga luteicornis

04 Sep. 2008 Laos

24 Sep. 2008 Cambodia

201

Phlaeoba antennata

Sep.2007

Pternoscirta sp.

Sep.2007

Vientiane, Laos

Trilophidia annulata

Sep.2007

Valanga nigricornis

Vientiane, Laos

Sep.2007

Xenocatantops humilis

Sep.2007

Vientiane, Laos

Vientiane, Laos

202

Vientiane, Laos

Order: Hemiptera
Family: Cicadidae

Cicadidae spp.
LA

Chakchan

KH

Rey，Dong kau duongTH

Juk jan，Ma lang e

VN

Ve sauVe sầu

JP

Semi

セミ類

Remarks

Basic Information

Macrosemia umbrata
21 Oct.2010 Laos

Many of the adults of this species have wings that aremembranous and transparent.

The abdomen of males

serve as a sounding organ and their abdominal cavity ishollow to serve as a resonance chamber. Females use thetip of their abdomen to scratch a tree branch to lay eggs.
After the larvae emerge, they descend to the ground bythemselves, and go underneath the soil through cracks on
the surface.
years.

They stay there and grow slowly over a few

When it is closer to the final molt, they emerge tothe surface during the evening to the night, then climb on atree or a grass to molt as adults.

19 Nov. 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

When matured, males sing to attract females in order to mate.
Use
In Laos and Thailand, several species of adults and larvae are used. Its culinary use in Cambodia
was not confirmed in this study.
served with salt.

Adults are often fried to eat, and sometimes roasted ones are

Larvae are also fried and served.

In this study, 4 genus and 6 species are

confirmed, however, it is assumed that more species are being used.

Adults are collected by usinga hand-held net with a long handle, a slingshot, a birdlime, or hand-collected by shaking trees
during the night.

In the Lao mountainous region, there is the method to lure in imitation sound of

the cicada voice by bamboo.

In Laos, they use Ton Yang as a birdlime, which is made by adhesive

resin extracted from woody vines.

Using Ton Yang, a collector catches newly emerged adults

when they come to acquire water from the moist ground along the Mekong River. He can collect
more than 10 Meimuna subviridissima in a matter of 5 minutes.
the base of a tree with a hoe.

Larvae are collected by digging

In Vientiane Prefecture, Laos, they were collected in forests aroundpaddy fields during the dry period. People can collect 20 to 30 larvae in an hour.

203

Macrosemia tonkiniana

Meimuna subviridissima

Muda sp.
21 Oct.2010 Laos

Platylomia bocki

Pomponia sp. (aff. linearis)

17 Nov.2008 Laos

21 Oct.2010 Laos

28 Nov.2007

Apr.2010

14 Apr.2010 Laos

2 Dec.2010 Laos

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Vientiane Capital, Laos

19 Nov. 2009204

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

18 Feb. 2010

Morpou, Champasak, Laos

18 Feb. 2010

Morpou, Champasak, Laos

27 Nov. 200918 Feb. 2010

Morpou, Champasak, Laos

Meimuna subviridissima

18 Feb. 2010

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Morpou, Champasak, Laos

27 Nov. 2009 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

27 Nov. 2009 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

27 Nov. 2009 Dong Makkai,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

205

Order: Hemiptera
Family: Scutelleridae

Tessaratoma quadrata
LA

Maeng kheng

KH
TH

Maeng krang ， Mung lum
yai，Mang kheng

VN

Bo xit nhanBọ xít nhãnJP
Remarks

Basic Information
The stink bugs have a length of 24.5mm to 34mm.

Its

body is relatively flat and a light yellowish brown color.

It

26 May 2009 Khouathi, Louang
Phrabang , Laosis a pest for longan and lychee trees; therefore, it can beeasily found in and around a longan orchard. It feeds onplant sap by inserting a needle-like sucking mouthparts on
a leaf vein or the stem of a plant.
on the back of a leaf.

Eggs are laid in a cluster

Larvae live together right after

hatching, they are then dispersed to have a solitary life.
Use

13 Feb. 2010

Both adults and larvae are used as food.
Live and cooked ones are sold at markets.

5,000kipTha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

We could not confirm its use in Cambodia in this study.

It is fried or stir-fried to be served. In Laos, it is a popular ingredient for chili paste, called Cheo,and served with sweet rice.

Other edible stink bugs tend to have a distinct aroma, but this species

is found to be less aromatic.

Adults and larvas that are on longan and lychee trees are collected by

insect nets. In Laos, a larger amount is collected just before the rain season.
3 to 4kg can be collected per day.

206

From April to June,

26 May 200917 Sep. 2011

Khouathi, Louang Phrabang,Laos

26 May 2009

Sampana, Vientiane Capital, Laos

13 Feb. 2010

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

29 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

17 Sep. 2011

Sampana, Vientiane Capital, Laos

15 Feb.2010

Savan Say Market, Savannakhet,
Laos

17 Sep. 2011

207

Khouathi, Louang Phrabang,
Laos（Cheo-Maeng khen）
Sampana, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Order: Hemiptera
Family: Coreidae

Leptocorisa spp.
LA

Maeng kheng khao

KH
TH

Ma lang singh

VN

Bo xit hoi

Bọ xít hôi

JP

Kumo-heri-kamemushi

クモヘリカメムシ属の一種

Remarks

Basic Information
Its length is 14 to 17mm.

The body is slender overall.

It

Leptoorisa sp.
21 Nov.2007 Vientiane Capital, Laos

has a pale green body with brown wings when alive, but thegreen part changes to yellow when it dies.

It lives ingramineous grassland or near the paddy field, and sucks onplant sap from the plant spikes.

Its Lao name, “khao”,

means rice, since it is often found around rice paddies.
Use
Adults are used as food in Laos.

It is fried or roasted andalso used as an ingredient for chili paste.

It has thedistinctive fruity aroma of stink bugs.
The collection takes place at night.

Leptoorisa sp.
10 Jun. 2007 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Adults are inactive at night, so a collector walks by shining alight to catch them.

208Order: Hemiptera
Family: Coreidae

Coreidae sp.
LA

Maeng kheng ka po

KH
TH

Mung nug kranVN

Bo xit nauBọ xít nâuJPheri-kamemushi

ヘリカメムシ科の一種

Remarks

Basic Information
Its length is 15 to 18mm. Its body is a long oval shapewith a dark brown color.

20 Apr.2010 Laos

There are three distinctive brownbands on its hind femur.
Use
Adults are eaten in Laos and Thailand.
stir-fried to be served.
chili paste.

It is fried or

In Laos, it is a popular ingredient of

It is favored for its fruity aroma. Collection isdone by using a tool which is a long stick with a bag
attached at the end.

28 Jan. 2013 Thoag Mang, Vientiane
Province, Laos

A collector would tap on the insect in the tree, and when it drops, he catches it in the bag.

A few

species within Coreidae sp. are confirmed, but the above pictured species is most commonly seen in
the market.

209

19 Nov. 2009 New Nong Neow Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

14 Feb. 201028 Jan. 201311 Nov. 2008

Vientiane Capital, Laos

10,000kip
Nongsa, Vientiane Province, Laos

14 Feb. 2010

Don Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

28 Jan. 2013

210

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Don Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Order: Hemiptera
Family: Margarodidae

Drosicha sp.
LA

Khai chakchan

KH
TH

Phai pang

VN
JP

Waraji-kaigaramushi

ワラジカイガラムシ属の一種

Remarks

Basic Information
Its body is oval and flat.

Larvae and adults have evolved

into a shape that is well adapted to a parasitic life in which
it attaches to the host plant.

15 May 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capotal, Laos

There is almost no border or

joint between its head, thorax and abdomen.

Its suctorial

mouth is a long thread-like tube which can extend a few
times more than its body length. Adults cover their bodywith wax coating.

Only during the larva stage, can theycrawl and move.

While maturing, they lose theirvestigial legs, antennae, eyes and become immobile. They
feed on plant sap.
10,000kip
15 May 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Xaythany, Vientiane Capotal, Laos

Use
It is used as food in Laos, but rarely seen in the market.
each year. It is fried or steamed in banana leaves.

211

It only circulates in the market in May of

It is often mistaken for a cicada’s eggs.

Order: Hemiptera
Family: Belostomatidae

Lethocerus indicus
LA

Maeng da，Maeng da na

KH

Kanteatuk

TH

Maeng da，Malang da

VN

Ca cuong

Cà cuống

JP

Taiwan-tagame

タイワンタガメ

Remarks

Basic Information

24 Jun.2009 Laos

It is distributed in tropical to subtropical areas in Eastern
Asia and India.
and flat.

Its body is 60 to 90mm. Its body is oval

It lives in a deep pond or a water hole with

abundant aquatic plants.
surrounds a branch.

Eggs are laid in a pattern that

The beginning of the rain season

marks the peak of the egg laying season.

Males protect

the eggs until they hatch. The larvae and adults hide
between aquatic plants, and catch aquatic insects, tadpoles
and small fish by their front legs to feed.

10,000kip
11 Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use

It is one of a famous edible insect in Indo-China, and is very popular.
which resembles coriander, which is the reason it is favored.

Adults have distinct aroma

Males are supposed to be morearomatic than females, so they are traded at a higher price.

Mature females with eggs are said tobe as tasty as males.

It is also used as a spice to add flavor

to other dishes.

It is roasted, fried, or steamed to eat.

In Laos and Thailand, it is used as an ingredient for chili paste.

In Cambodia, it

is popular as a snack to go with alcohol beverages. There is even an artificial seasoning that tastes
like Lethocerus indicus.

Many methods are used to collect it:

net, cast net, draw net, gill net, or a light trap.

skimming it by a colander or hand

In Laos, during the high season, 45 to 50 counts,

sometimes 100 of these can be caught by a colander in half a day.
counts can be collected in 1 hour.

212

Using a cast net, 20 to 30

17 Jul. 2010

Napuheuy, Vientiane Province,
Laos

28 Jun. 2010

Mueng Song, Vientiane Province,
Laos

05 Sep. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

02 Jul. 2010

Napuheuy, Vientiane Province,
Laos

15 May 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

09 Sep. 2010

Phon Sim, Savannakhet, Laos

（Cheo-Maeng da）
Ban Khun Market, Vientiane
Province, Laos

02 Jul. 2010

Ban Khun Market, Vientiane
Province , Laos

02 Jul. 2010213

03 Aug. 2010

Suvarnabhumi International
Airport, Thai

29 Jan. 2013 Thalat Sao, Chanthabuly,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

02 Jul. 2010

Napuheuy, Vientiane Province,
Laos

214

21 Sep 2011

Talat Sao, Vientiane Capital, Laos

25 Jun. 2010

Dong Makai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

29 Jun. 2010

Dong Borng, Vientiane Capital,
LaosOrder: Hemiptera
Family: Belostomatidae

Appasus sp.
LA

Maeng khaosan

KH
TH

Malang da suan

VN

Ca cuong nho

Cà cuống nhỏJP

Kooimushi

コオイムシ科の一種

Remarks

Basic Information
Its length is about 13mm.

The body is flat and has an

Appasus sp.
24 Jun.2009 Laoselongated oval shape with the widest part occurring at 1/3
from the caudal end.

There are dark and light mottles

along the edge of latter part of forewings.

Adults hide

under dead plants at the bottom of the water, and catch
nearby aquatic insects and tadpoles or small fish by theirfore legs.

The life cycle of larvae is not fully known.

Use
In Laos, adults and larvae are eaten.

They are fried or

steamed to be served.

30 Jun. 2010

Dong, Vientiane Province,
Laos

This species is often not eaten by itself, but rather mixed with other aquatic organisms. Collection
takes place in a shallow marsh or paddy field.
animals are collected together.

Hand-held nets are used, and other aquatic small

It is not well recognized among local people.

with Lethocerus indicus or Dytiscidea sp..

It is often confused

Sometimes, a Naucoridae sp. is caught because of its

similar appearance and used in the same way.

215

28 Jun. 2010

Appasus sp.
Mueng Song, Vientiane Province,
Laos

28 Jun. 2010

Naucoris scutellaris

Appasus sp.
Mueng Song, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Naucoris sp.
9 Jul.2009 Laos

9 Jul.2009 Laos216

Order: Hemiptera
Family: Nepidae

Laccotrephes grossus
LA

Maeng ngoa nam

KH

Kan teaTH

Mung mang pong nam

VN

Bu cap nuocBù cạp nước (Bu cap nuoc)

JP

Taiwan-taikouchi

タイワンタイコウチ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia and China.
is 24 to 29mm.

Its body is long,

Body length

22 Sep. 2008 Laosthin and flat, with adark brown color.

L. maculatus is the smaller species inthe same family.

L. maculatus has 16 to 18mm bodylength, and has a blunt beak at the base of the femur of its
front legs. Adults hide in dead plants at the bottom of thewater and with its front leg catch aquatic insects, tadpoles,
and small fish.
known.

Its larva stage of lifecycle is not well

Mature females lay a cluster of eggs, about 10, in

the wet soil near the waterline.

24 May 2009 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

It is assumed that hatched larvae molt 5 times in about 2 months, before becoming adults.
Use
Adults and larvae are used as food. It is not sold by itself, but mixed with other aquatic organisms
such as shrimp, small fish, or larvae of a dragonfly.

The mixture is steamed, stir-fried, or fried to

be served. Due to its slenderness, this insect is not specially favored as food.
Cambodia.

It is not used in

Other than culinary use, it is sometimes used as food for farmed fish.

It is collectedby using a hand net or colander in the shallow water with abundant aquatic plants such as
marshes.

Usually, other aquatic insects and animals are caught together. L. maculatus is used in

the same manner.

217

24 May 200924 Nov. 2009

Laccotrephes sp.

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

24 Nov 2009

Laccotrephes sp..

Laccotrephes sp.

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Laccotrephes maculatus

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

29 Aug.2008 Laos218

Order: Hemiptera

Ranatra longipes

Family: Nepidae

LA

Maeng ngord nam

KH

Chang komTH

Mung mang pong num

VN

Chom chom nuoc

Chôm chôm nướcJP

Madara-ashimizu-kamakiri

マダラアシミズカマキリ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is widely distributed throughout Southeast Asia.

It isalso found in Taiwan and Japan (Ryukyu Islands).

10 Dec.2008 Cambodia

Its body is 24 to 29mm, with a stick-like long and narrow appearance. The color varies from lightbrown to brown.

There are 2 small blunt beaks in the middle of front leg femurs.

Use
General use is similar to that of Laccotrephes grossus.

Both adults and larvae are used. It is

stir-fried with other aquatic animals or steamed in banana leaves. Genus Cercotmentus in thesame family is used in the same way.

It is collected by a hand net or a colander in shallow waters

with abundant aquatic plants such as marshes. Other aquatic animals are caught together.

17 Sep.2007

Wat Preah Yesu, Siem Reap Cambodia

Cercotmentus brevipes
24 Jun.2009 Laos

Cercotmentus sp.
17 Sep.2008 Laos219

Order: Isoptera
Family: Termitidae

Termitidae spp.
LA

Maeng mao

KH

Me pleing

TH

Malang mao

VN

Moi

Mối

JP

Shiroari

シロアリ類

Remarks

Basic Information
Adult length is 6 to 20mm, with a queen of largest species
reaches up to 120mm.

The winged caste has brown to

23 Jul. 2010

Stung Treng, Cambodia

dark brown coloration on the dorsal side, and light coloredlateral and ventral sides.

Soldier caste has a larger headthan worker caste and its jaw is well developed and black incolor.

Larvae are white.

Its colony is consisted of kings

and a queen and other family members, and their social life
is based on division of labor.

Adults possess wings only fora short period, of which they are involved in reproduction.
During the mating season, some of them are attracted to

15 May 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laoslights.
Some colonies become as large as containing 300 million individuals over the period of a few years.
Use
Winged adults are used as food. They are fried or stir-fried to be eaten.
are sun-dried and used as preserved food.

In Thailand, grilled ones

Its collection takes place in the beginning of a rainseason, which is when they start to fly in clusters.
his yard, a large number of them swarm to it.

220

At this time, when a collector sets up a light inOrder: Neuroptera
Family: Corydalidae

Corydalidae sp.
LA

Maeng kan ter

KH
TH

Maeng song kan

VNJPHebitombo

ヘビトンボ類

Remarks

Basic Information
Forewings and hindwings of an adult are about the same
shape.

They are broader than that of a dragonfly, and thewingspan is 40 to 150mm.
final molt.

22 Nov. 2009 Na Kom, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Larvae become 50 to 60mm at

They have hard head and prothorax, and awell-developed mandible and legs.

Middle and hindthorax are soft, and each segment of the abdomen has
distinctive flexible protuberance. Its egg, pupa, and adultare terrestrial whereas the larva is aquatic.

Larva period

is usually 1 to 3 years during which it molts about 10 times
and grows.

During the daytime, it hides under dead leaves

or small gravels in the water, and becomes active at night.

24 Nov. 2009 Vang Vieng Market,
Vientiane Province, Laos

It is carnivorous and catches aquatic insects with its well-developed mandible.

At the final molt,

larvae leave the water and make a round room in the ground to become a pupa.

A pupa emerges as

an adult in about 10 days.
Use
In Laos, larvae are used as food. It is sold in the market together with other aquatic organisms,
but it is not found very often.

It is fried, put in soups, or skewed to be served.

Sometimes it issteamed with other fish or aquatic insects.

Its collection takes place at rivers and streams, but it is

not intended to catch solely this species.

Other aquatic animals are collected together withcolanders and nets.

221Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Formicidae

Oecophylla smaragdina
LA

Mod som，Mod deng

KH

Ang krongTH

Mod daeng

VN

Kien vangKiến vàngJP

Asia-tsumugi-ari

アジアツムギアリ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Indo-China peninsula, Malaysia, India,
South China, and the Philippines.
10mm.

Total length is 5 to

17 Sep.2007

Wat Preah Yesu, Siem Reap,
Cambodia

Its body is pale, semi-transparent brown in color.

Their habitat is forest, and they make a ball-shaped nest in
the tree by gathering nearby leaves.

Their colony is madeup of a large number of ants, sometimes 500 thousand
individuals.

Adults are extremely aggressive, and if ahuman comes close to the nest, they would bite with theirstrong jaw. It is called “weaver ant” because it makes its
nest by weaving leaves together using a thread which is
16 Jan. 2013 Kham Hai Market, Khon
Kaen, Thailand

secreted from its body.
Use
Adult, pupa, larva, and egg are used as food.
omelet to be served.

In Cambodia, it is stir-fried together with a float plant Neptunia oleracea. It

is often used to add sour flavor to a dish.
uterus.

It is stir-fried, made into a salad, put in soup or

In Cambodia, it is used as a medicine to condition the

In Laos, it is collected in a forest near a village or a paddy field.

A bag is attached at theend of a rod of about a few meters, and using the bagged end, a collector will tap the nest andcatches the adult, pupa, larva and egg that are dropped into the bag. Cambodia exports a large
amount of collected Oecophylla smaragdina to Thailand.

Other than this species, use of

Clematogaster sp. was confirmed, but it is not often found in the markets. Clematogaster sp. isused in the same way.

222

24 Oct.2008 Cambodia

14 Feb. 2010

Lak2 Market, Khammouane, Laos

06 Nov. 2008

27 May 200914 Feb. 2010

Lak2 Market, Khammouane, Laos

19 Sep.2007

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Dong, Prey Veng, Cambodia

02 May 2009

Nathone, Vientiane Capital, Laos

Na Khan, Louang Phrabang, Laos

19 Jan. 2013

Lak14 Market, Champasak, Laos

223

28 Aug. 2008

Otdom, Prey Veng, Cambodia

19 Jan. 2013

Ban Watlouang, Champasak,Laos

14 Mar. 2009

Dong Borng, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

23 May 2009

Vang Vieng, Vientiang Province,
Laos

27 Jan. 2013

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Clematogaster sp.

14 Feb. 2010

224

Lak2 Market, Khammouane,
LaosOrder: Hymenoptera
Family: Vespidae

Vespa affinisLA

Tor hua seua

KH

Au mal, Koun au mal, Somboh au mal

THTor hua suea

VN

Ong vo ve

Ong vò vẽ

JP

Tsumaguro-suzumebachi

ツマグロスズメバチ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in tropical areas of East Asia, Himalayan
region, India, Southeast Asia, and New Guinea.

12 Sep.2008 Laos

Workers

have 18 to 28mm body length with a dark brown color.

Itsabdomen has distinctive coloration with yellow anterior
half and black posterior half.

They live in secondary

environment, and make their nests on a tree branch, on
grass near the ground surface, on a vine up to 1m above
ground, or space under the eaves of a house.
02 Jul. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
Larva, pupa, and adult are used as food.

In Cambodia, only the larva is used.

Larvae and pupae

are steamed or fried to be served. Usually, a nest itself is steamed and pupae and larvae inside are
picked up to be eaten. In Thailand, it is marinated in fish sauce and being sold.

This is eaten by

grilling with butter and served as a snack hood of alcohol. Adults are often fried to be served. In
Laos and Thailand, an alcohol beverage in which adults are pickled, is sold.
are used in the same manner.

225

Other species of Vespa

13 Jul. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

29 Nov. 2009

Dong Makkai Market, Vietntiane
Capital, Laos

06 Sep. 2009

Dong Makkai Market, Vietntiane
Capital, Laos

24 Jun. 2010

Dong Makkai Market, Vietntiane
Capital, Laos

29 Jul. 2010

Nong Yao, Vientiane Capital, Laos

26 May 200927 Jul. 2010

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

Dong Makkai Market, Vietntiane
Capital, Laos

Vespa sp.
01 Dec.2010 Laos226

Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Apidae

Apis spp.
LA

Pheuang

KH

Pong rout，Tak khmom

THPheung min

VN

Ong mat

Ong mật

JP

Mitsubachi

ミツバチ類

Remarks

Basic Information

Apis cerana
01 Dec.2010 Laos

Worker bees are about 15mm. They have a dark brownbody with relatively large head which has no significant
development on its hind angle.

The compound eyes arelarge, and they reach from front angle of the head to hindangle.

Antennae are relatively short.

Abdomen is yellow,

but it looks striped due to dark lining of a posterior edge ofeach segment.

Bees that are kept by humans from ancient

times, such as Apis mellifera, make a nest in closed spacesuch as a hollow of a tree, and develop a few honeycombs
16 Feb. 2010 Dongfai Market,
Savannakhet, Laosthat are suspended in parallel.

Bees such as Apis dorsata and Apis florea make a nest in open space with one honeycomb.

One

nest of Apis mellifera is consisted of 40 to 60 thousand workers, 200 males and one queen. The
queen lays 1,500 eggs per day, and usually lives 1 to 5 years.
perpendicular honeycombs filled with hexagonal rooms.
the eggs and larvae, and collect flower nectar.

Workers secrete wax to makeWorkers also maintain the nest, nurse

Their life span is about 6 weeks. When a queen

weakens or number of workers exceeds a certain level, colony fission (swarming) occurs.
Use
Larva and nest (honey) are used as food.

Honey is especially favored in every day diet.

A nestthat contains larvae are cut into square bars and roasted or steamed in banana leaves to be served.
It is very sweet.

In Thailand, larvae marinated in fish sauce are sold.

served with alcohol.

227

It is grilled with butter and19 Feb. 2010

Lak2 Market, Khammouane, Laos

13 Feb. 2010

23 Nov. 2009

Tam Chan, Vientiane Province,
Laos

21 Jan, 2013

Pakse New Market, Champasak,Laos

31 Jan. 2010

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

29 Nov. 2009

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

29 Nov. 2009

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

29 Nov. 2009

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos228

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phabang, Laos

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Scarabaeidae

Heliocopris bucephalus
LA

Chuchee，Bao

KH

Kom poung aeh

THChuchee bou

VN

Bo hung

JP

Seaka-namban-daikoku-kogane セアカナンバンダイコクコ
ガネBọ hung

Remarks

Basic Information

22 Apr. 2010 Laos

Body length is 30 to 50mm, with some large ones reaching
maximum of 70mm.
round figure.

It is entirely black color and has a

Its thickness of lateral side and width of

dorsal side are about the same.

Its front edge of the headbroadens like a fan.

Front legs are serrated which areadapted to digging.

It gathers around a dung of anelephant or a water buffalo, and larvae feed on it.

A pairwill mate at a dung site and they dig a tunnel under thedung to make a broad chamber.

Parents roll the dung to

make a ball and bring it into the chamber.
Each dung ball has one egg inside.
the ball.

14 Feb. 2010 Boung Huana Market,
Khammouane, Laos

Hatched larva feeds on the dung ball and becomes pupa inside

Parents stay with the ball inside the chamber during this period to keep the ball freefrom mold and flies.
Use
Larva, pupa and adult are used as food in southern Laos and surrounding area.
are mainly used, and dung balls that contain those are sold in the markets.
in soup, stew, omelet and salad.

They are gutted when cooking.

ground to be put into a curry dish.
eating it.

Larva and pupa

They are fried or put

Adults are fried, or roasted thenSince its nature of feeding on dungs, many local people avoid

Dung balls are collected mainly in dry season from November to May. It takes place inand around a paddy field.

A collector tells that the high season is March through April, during

which individuals are plump and taste better. The grooming chamber is sought by digging under
old and dried dung of a water buffalo. A few dung balls and a female adult are found per chamber.

229

14 Feb. 2010 Boung Huana Market,
Khammouane, Laos

15 Feb. 2010

Haumeueng Toy, Savannakhet,
Laos

23 Jan. 2013

Watlouang, Champasak, Laos

24 Jan. 2013

Pa khaor yai, Champasak, Laos

17 Feb. 2010

Pakse New Market, Champasak,
Laos

15 Feb. 2010

Haumeueng Toy, Savannakhet,
Laos

23 Jan. 201324 Jan. 2013230

Lak20, Salavan, LaosPa khaor yai, Champasak, Laos

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Scarabaeidae

Proagoderus mouhoti
LA

Chuchee

KH

Kom poulaieh

TH

Chuchee bou

VN

Bo hungBọ hung

JP

Kabuto-emma-kogane

カブトエンマコガネ

Remarks

Basic Information
Its body length is 15 to 19mm. The entire body is darkgreen and shiny.

Adult flies and finds dungs which become

food for its larva.

It digs a shallow tunnel underneath the

24 Jun. 2010 Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laosdung, and brings in the dung ball to lay one egg in it.
Larva feeds on the dung ball from inside, and eventually
becomes a pupa and emerges.

Adult is active during

daytime, but more so after evening through night, and is
attracted to a light.
24 Jun. 2010

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Use
No culinary use was confirmed in Thailand, but adult use was observed in Laos.
roasted to be eaten.

It is fried or

People take time to clean the dung from a beetle, then soak it in the water or

wash thoroughly before cooking.

If this process is not thoroughly done, the odor lingers.

feeds on dungs, some local people avoid eating it.

Since it

It is collected by picking adults that gather

around dungs of a water buffalo in the early morning, or by digging underneath the dung.
Collection mainly takes place around a dried paddy field during the dry season.
species, adults of smaller to medium sized dung beetle are also used.
size is 10 to 20mm, are preferred in the markets.
genus Onthophagus are sold.

Smaller species which body

Other than this species, many individuals from

Many other species are mixed and sold.

231

Other than this24 Jun. 201026 Jul. 200928 Jul. 201017 Feb. 2010

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

24 Jun. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

26 Jul. 2009

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

24 Jun. 2010

Onthophagus spp.

Pakse New Market, Champasak
Laos

30 May 2009232

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Onthophagus spp.

Dong Makai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

24 Nov. 2009

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

24 Nov. 2009

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

24 Nov. 2009

Onthophagus. sp.

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Catharsius birmanensis
22 Apr.2010 Laos

Copris siamensis

Copris sinicus

30 Jun.2009 Laos

01 Jun.2010 Laos

Digitonthophagus bonasus

Liatongus rhadamistus ♂

22 Apr.2010 Cambodia

01 Jun.2010 Laos233

Microcopris reflexus
01 Jul.2009 Laos

Onitis sp.
30 Jun.2009 Laos

Onthophagus armatus

Onthophagus recticornutus ♀

Onthophagus sagittarius ♂

Onthophagus seniculus ♂

Onthophagus sp.
09 Sep.2009 Laos

Paracopris punctulatus

21 Jan.2009 Laos

09 Sep.200901 Jul.2009 Laos

Laos

01 Jul.2009 Laos

01 Jun.2010 Laos234

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Scarabaeidae

Holotrichia spp.
LA

Maeng chee noun，Chee noun
deng

KH

Khnyong krohom

TH

Malang chinoon

VN

Bo ray, Ray meBọ rầy, Rầy me

JP

Kurokogane

クロコガネ属の複数種

Remarks

Basic Information
Body length is 15 to 35mm.

It is uniformly brown to a

black color with oval shape.

Larva lives underground near

the surface, and feeds on plant roots.

Holotrichia sp.
02 Dec.2010 Loas

Adult is active

during the daytime, and feeds on various plant leaves.
Adult becomes more active after the evening, and is
attracted to a light after dark.
Use
Adult is used as food. It is fried or stir-fried to be served.
Holotrichia sp.

It is collected by placing a light in the yard.

16 Apr. 2010

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Other than genus Holotrichia, culinary use of herbivorous beetles such as Anomala, Apogonia, andLepidiota is confirmed. Genus Holotrichia is preferred in Laos, and Anomala antique is preferably
used in northeastern Thailand.

In Cambodia, it is used in only a few areas.

235

28 Jul.2010

Dong Makai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

10 Jun. 2007 New Nong Neow Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

13 Feb. 2010

Dong Makai Market, Vientiane
Capital , Laos

02 Dec.2010 Cambodia

Anomala antique

Anomala sp.1
02 Dec.2010 Cambodia

Anomala sp.2
02 Dec.2010 Laos

Apogonia cribricollis

Lepidiota bimaculata

02 Dec.2010 SCambodia

02 Dec.2010 Vientiane, Laos

236

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Scarabaeidae

Xylotrupes gideon tonkinensis
LA

Maeng kham

KH

Kanh chae

TH

Malang kham

VN

Kien vuongKiến vương

JP

Gideon-hime-kabuta

ギデオンヒメカブト

Remarks

Basic Information
Male has a length of 35 to 80mm. Female length is 28 to
55mm.

Entire body is glossy reddish brown to a blackcolor.

Females lack cephalic horn, but males have

04 Nov. 2008

Takeo, Cambodia

distinctive forked-horns one on the head and the otherpointing forward from the center of the thorax.

Larvaefeed on decomposed plant material and become pupae overthe period of 2 years. Adults feed on plant sap and live 2
to 4 months.
12 Sep. 2007 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
Larva, pupa, and adult are used as food.

In Laos, adults are used more often.

by removing forewings and fried or roasted.

Usually the abdomen is the only part that is eaten,

but since there is not much volume, it is not very popular as edible insect.
marinated in coconut milk and roasted.
an insect fight in northern Thailand.

Adults are cooked

Larva and pupa are

Other than culinary use, its male is very popularly used in

Adults raised for fighting is also sold.

237

26 Nov.2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

10 Oct. 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thailand

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thailand

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thailand

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thailand

238

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Dytiscidea

Cybister limbatusLA

Tap tao，Maeng nieng，
Maeng cheid

KH

Khonteh long，Dong kam bot

TH

Doung dingVN

Bu nieng

Bù niểng

JP

Fuchitori-gengprou

フチトリゲンゴロウ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia, China, Taiwan, Japan(Nansei Islands), the Philippines, India and Nepal.

Adultlength is 32 to 35mm and has a long oval shape.

Its

22 Jul.2009 Laos

dorsal side is shiny and black with brownish tint. Thereis a yellowish brown lining from lateral dorsal prothorax tothe lateral forewing.

Ventral side is uniformly black.

Adults are carnivorous.

Eggs are laid singularly in theaquatic plant tissue. In a captive life, a larva malts twice
in one month before leaving the water, then it buries itself
about a few to 10cm in the ground to become a pupa andemerges.

Newly emerged adult comes out from theground then starts an aquatic life.

Cybister sp.
28 Jun. 2010 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Use
Not only this species but most of the genus Cybister is used as food.
countries, but the use of larva is only confirmed in Laos.
eaten.

Hard forewings are removed when cooking.

other types of Hydrophilidae.

Adult is used in many

Adult is mainly fried or stir-fried to be

In the market, it is often found mixed with

Larva is stir-fried, cooked, or steamed to be served.

It is rarely

used solely, but rather, it is cooked as a mixture with larvae of dragonfly, tadpoles, or shrimps andother aquatic organisms.

Adults are collected by skimming with a hand net or a colander, orgathered by light trap method.

Larvae are skimmed by a hand net or a colander. Many adults

are found in the remaining puddles of dried paddy field during the dry season.

239

06 Sep. 2009

Dong, Vientiane Province, Laos

24 Jul. 2010

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

27 Jun. 2010

Cybister sp.
Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

06 Sep. 2009

Dong, Vientiane Province, Laos

12 Sep. 2010

Cybister sp.
Sivilay, Vientiane, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

30 May 2010

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Cybister sp.

28 Jan. 2013 Thoag Mang,
Vientiane Province, LaosJan. 2013

240

Cybister sp.
Lak14 Market, Champasak, Laos

19 Jan. 2013

Lak14 Market, Champasak, Laos

24 Jul. 2008

Mai Haiyone, Vientiane Province,
Laos

26 Nov. 2009

Dong Bong, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Cybister rugosus

01 Sep.2008 Laos

Cybister sp. 1
01 Sep.2008 Laos

Cybister sp. 2
2007 Vientiane Capital, Laos

Cybister sugillatus

Cybister tripunctatus ssp.

2 Jul.2009 Laos

2 Sep.2009 Laos

241

Hydrophilus bilineatus cashimirensis
LA

Tap tao，Maeng cheid

KH

Khonteh longTH

Malang neang

VN

Dien dienĐiên điển

JP

Kogata-gamushi

コガタガムシOrder: Coleoptera
Family: Hydrophilidae

Remarks

Basic Information
Its body length is about 35mm.
with slender oval shape.

It has a shiny black body

Hydrophilus cavisternum has asimilar appearance to this species.

05 Oct.2010

Laos

Adults are often

found clinging to an aquatic plant and staying still.
Adults are herbivorous except for the mating season,
during which they feed on animals.

Females use plantfragments in the water to make an egg sac filled with eggs,
called “cradle”, near the water surface.
tens of eggs in one egg sac.
about 2 weeks.

There are several

Eggs are expected to hatch in

Larvae are carnivorous, catching small

animals alive by their strong mandibles.

After larvae

malt twice, they leave the water to bury themselves in the
ground and become pupae, then adults.

Larva, Hydrophilus sp.
25 Jun. 2010 Dong Makai, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Newly emerged adults come out from the ground and start an aquatic life.
Use
Adults are eaten including H. cavisternum in the same genus.

It is mainly fried or stir-fried to beserved. The hard forewings and prickles on the underside are removed when cooking.

Larvae arealmost never used, but in Lao market, it is found occasionally mixed with larvae of dragonfly, frogs,
or shrimps and other aquatic animals.
colander.

Adults are skimmed and collected with a hand net or aLight trap is also used for collection.

Adults of Hydrophilidae are called by the same

local name with Dytiscidae, and the two are not distinguished as separate species.

In Laos,

Hydrophilus and Cybister are considered as female and male of the same species. Hydrophilus isconsidered as males because people mistakenly recognize the spiny protuberance on the undersideof its abdomen as a reproductive organ.

242

06 Sep. 2010

29 Nov. 2009

Hydrophilus sp.
Dong, Vientiane Province, Laos

25 Jun. 2010

Hydrophilus sp.
Dong Makai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

06 Nov. 2008

Hydrophilus bilineatus cashimirensis

Hydrophilus sp.
Dong Makai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Hydrophilus sp.
Neak Loeung, Kandal, Cambodia

Hydrophilus cavisternum
04 Oct.2010 Laos

27 Sep.2010 Cambodia

243Order: Coleoptera
Family: Buprestidae

Sternocera sp.
LA

Maeng khap

KH

Kom phem

TH

Malang tub

VN

Kim quit

Kim quít

JP

Midori-futo-tamamushi

ミドリフトタマムシ類

Remarks

Basic Information
It is a large beetle with body length of 30 to 40mm.
Overall, its color is light golden green with metallic luster.
Some species have reddish brown antennae and legs.
few species are distributed in Indo-China region.

27 Nov. 2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

A

They

are very similar in appearance, such as Sternocera

aeguisignata and S. ruficornis. Their detailed ecology is
not understood yet; however, larvae of Sternocera sp.,including this species, are known to feed on plant roots in
the ground.

Adults are diurnal and feed on plant pollen

and leaves.
10 Sep. 2010

Use

Adults are used as food. It is occasionally found in the markets.

When cooking, its forewings are

removed and the remaining is fried, roasted, or stir-fried to be served.
hands if it is on a tree, or by shaking it off the tree.

To collect, it is picked up by

In Cambodia, it is said to be cultivated, but it

is assumed to be merely protecting the host trees that the beetles feed on.

244

Sternocera sp.
Chaleun Souk, Savannakhet,
LaosOrder: Coleoptera
Family: Cerambycidae

Cerambycidae spp.
LA

Maeng nam fon

KH
TH

Doung creem，Doung hnoudyaoVN

Xen toc

Xén tóc

JP

Kamikirimushi

カミキリムシ類

Remarks

Basic Information
Adult body is 40 to 70mm for larger species and about
3mm for smaller species.

Dorysthenes walkeri

Medium to large sized species

of more than 30mm are popularly used.
body is slender and cylindrical.

29 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

In general, theIt is known for its longantennae, which are the longest among other beetles.
When touched, it produces sound by rubbing the edge ofthe pronotum scrapeping against a file on the mesonotum.
Smaller species usually matures in one year, while larger
species takes 3 to 5 years to mature.

Most of the species

bore holes on plant materials, usually a tree, and feed on
them.

Hoplocerambyx spinicornis
29 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Use
Larvae, pupae and adults of larger species are used as food.

Adults are occasionally spotted in themarkets, but it is not sold solely, but mixed with other insects.
roasted to be eaten.

Adults are fried, stir-fried or

Hard parts such as the forewings are removed when cooking.

In Thailand,

larvae and pupae of Apriona japonica are fried or steamed in banana leaves to be served.
that are attracted to lights are collected by light trap method.

In Laos, adult use of Dorysthenes

walker, Hoplocerambyx spinicornis, Xystrocera globose, and Batocera davdis are confirmed.

245

SpeciesOrder: Coleoptera
Family: Curculionidae

Hypomeces squamosus
LA

Maeng sang

KH

Me ambok

TH

Malang kom tong

VN

Cau cau xah

Câu cấu xanhJP

Zoumushi

Family ゾウムシ

Remarks

Basic Information
Adult length is about 10mm.
short.

Its mouthparts are stout andFresh adult is covered with shiny green scales, but

eventually they all scrape off.

28 Nov.2007 Cambodia

The color of scales varies

depending on the region it resides, from green, reddish
copper, purple, to gray, but green individuals are mostabundant.

It lives in a flatland to low hill areas, andcommonly found on leaves of trees along the roadside.
Use
Adults are eaten in Laos and Cambodia.
to be served.

It is mainly friedInsect nets with a long-pole are used tocollect ones on a tree.

246

18 Feb. 2010 Pakse New Market,
Champasak, Laos

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Rhynochophoridae

Crytotrachelus spp.
LA

Maeng kwang

KH
TH

Duang mai pai

VNDuong treĐuông treJP

Oo-osazoumushi

オオオサゾウムシ属の複数種

Remarks

Basic Information
Adult body is 15 to 30mm.
vermillion.

Its coloration is shiny

Larvae have a dark brown head with yellowish

brown body, and they do not have legs.

Crytotrachelus sp.
09 Sep. 2010 Thating Hang,
Savannakhet, Laos

They feed onbamboos from inside, sometimes reaching to the outer layer
and making a hole.

Fully grown larvae make a simple

chamber in a bamboo joint, using tree debris and become
pupae then emerge.
Use
Larvae are used in Laos and Thailand.

It is usually fried

to be served. In Laos, people said larvae of bamboo-eating
weevils have soft skin and are tastier than larvae of

Larva, Crytotrachelus sp.
24 Sep. 2010 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Rhynchophorus ferrugineus.
Its collection takes place in a bamboo forest, and larvae are sought inside bamboos.

247

03 Oct. 201024 Sep. 2010

Crytotrachelus sp.

14 Oct. 2010

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

24 Sep. 2010

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

248

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Rhynochophoridae

Rhynchophorus ferrugineus
LA

Duang ton tan，Maeng
kwang

KH
TH

Duang sakoo

VN

Duong duaĐuông DừaJP

Yashi-oo-osazoumushi

ヤシオオオサゾウムシ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Southeast Asia, India, China, Taiwan,
Japan (Okinawa), and Papua New Guinea. Adult length is
22 to 35mm.

17 May 2009

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Its body is shaped like a grain of rice.

Larvae have a dark brown head with yellowish brown body,and they do not have legs. Larvae feed on palm trees, andthe woody part of palm trees become powdery after larvae
feed on it.

When larvae have reached their full growth,

they make pupal chamber by using palm fibers and pupate
then emerge.
27 Jun. 2010 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laos

Use
Larvae and pupae are used as food in Laos and Thailand.
Texture and taste are close to that of French fries.

They are mainly fried to be served.

It is a pest for Palmyra Palm (Borassus

flabellifer). It is collected from an infested, dying Palmyra Palm. It is occasionally found in themarkets.

Its harvesting method is being studied in universities in Thailand and Laos.

249

Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Pyralidae

Omphisa sp.
LA

Duang mai phai，Duang mae

KH

Dong kau neangTH

Rot duan, Duang mai pai，None mai pai

VNJP

Taketsutoga

タケツトガ

Remarks

Basic Information
Adult wingspan is 20 to 30mm for males, and slightly larger
for females.

17 Nov. 2008 Laos

Adults fly out from bamboo stem during thenight to mate and lay eggs on the surface of a young
bamboo shoot.

Hatched larvae gather around and move toa fresh part of the shoot in a single line and make a hole in
the joint to go inside. Larvae feed on the inside tissue of abamboo.

Larvae become pupae in about 10 months.

Pupae collectively hang from the joint of a bamboo, andemerge as adults after 40 to 60 days.

10,000kip
11 Nov. 2008 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
Larvae are one of the frequently used edible insects, and often found in the markets.
used in Laos and Thailand.
the border of Thailand.

It is widely

In Cambodia, it is not a common edible insect, but it is popular near

It is usually fried to be eaten.

Its collection takes place in a bamboo forest.

It is popular as a snack to go with a beer.

First a collector looks for a dying bamboo stem due tothe infection by this species. If there is a hole of about 2mm in diameter near the bamboo root, hewould cut open the joint to check for the presence of larvae. It there are larvae, the joint one below
where the larvae are is cut to fell the bamboo and extract the larvae. From one bamboo, about acup full of larvae can be collected.

250

19 Nov. 2009

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

11 Nov. 2008

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thailand

20 Sep. 2009

Bokeo, Laos

21 Sep. 2009

Huay Khom Nok, Chiang Rai,
Thailand21 Sep. 2009

Huay Khom Nok, Chiang Rai,
Thailand21 Sep. 2009

Huay Khom Nok, Chiang Rai,
Thailand21 Sep. 2009

Huay Khom Nok, Chiang Rai,
Thailand251

Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Bombycidae

Bombyx moriLA

Duck dae morn

KH

Dok duaTH

Duk dae mai

VN

Nhong tamNhộng TằmJP

Kaikoga

カイコガ

Remarks

Basic Information
Adult wingspan is 180 to 230mm. Its body and wings arecovered with white scales.

Larvae of popular breeds have

12 Sep 2007

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

21 Jun. 2009

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laosa white body, and at full growth, they are 6 to 7cm long andweigh 5 to 6g.

Larvae exclusively feed on mulberry leaves,and they molt 4 times before making a cocoon and become apupa.

Pupae emerge in about 2 weeks

Use
It is one of the most popular edible insects, and its pupa isfound in the markets throughout a year.
roasted, or boiled to be served.

It is fried,

It has distinct aroma.

In Laos, a tea made out of dried larvae dungs are sold, but it is not very popular.
having taken the silk is supplied steadily.

252

The pupa after03 Nov. 2008

21 Sep.2011

Central Market, Phnom Penh,
Cambodia

10 Jun. 2007

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Talat Sao, Vientiane Capital, Laos,
Laos

21 Sep.2011

Talat Sao, Vientiane Capital, Laos,
Laos

253

Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Saturniidae

Saturniidae sp.
LA

Douang，Duck dae morn ka
beua，Ka beua

KH
TH

Duk dae mai pa

VNJPYamamayu

ヤママユガ属の一種

Remarks

Basic Information
Adult wingspan is about 130mm. Its body and wings arecovered with yellowish brown scales.

Full grown larvae

26 May 2009

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

are measured 70 to 80mm, and weigh 17 to 20g. Its cocoon
is milk white in color and 18mm in length.

Pupae areyellowish brown to dark brown in color and 14 to 15mm inlength.

From one cocoon, 600 to 700m of silk thread can beproduced.
Use
26 May 2009

In Laos, pupae are used as food.

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

Although it is not a popular insect as food, pupae in the cocoon and pupae without cocoon are sold in
the market.

It is mainly fried to eat.

254

Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Sphingidae

Sphingidae spp.
LA

Ka bee，Cha ruad

KH
TH

Pee seu cha ruad

VN
JP

Suzumega

スズメガ科の複数種

Remarks

Basic Information
It is a medium to large sized moth, with adult wingspanmeasuring about 30 to 150mm.

Wings are slender andlong, with the forewings considerably longer than thehindwings.

Its thorax is stout and streamline shaped.

31 Jun. 2010 Dong Borng, Vientiane
Capital, LaosItspectoral muscle is well developed, and provides strength for
its ability to fly.

Its body is covered with hair-like scales,

and they are easily scraped off when touched.

It has a longand thin mouthpart like that of butterflies, which areadapted to suck flower nectar.

There are varieties ofpatterns on its prothorax and wings, depending on thespecies.

In general, its forewings have dull color and
01 Mar. 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laospatterns, while hindwings have brighter colors.
Larvae have classic shape of worms and lack major hair.
spiny protuberance on the posterior abdomen.

Adults of many species are nocturnal, but there are

species which are active during daytime or in the evening.
reach a speed of 50km per hour.

It can fly very fast, with some species

Many are attracted to lights at night, and many are found staying

there even after sunrise due to drop of temperature.
stages.

They are characterized by a distinctive

They feed on various plant leaves.

Larvae live a solitary life since their early

When touched, larvae take threatening position byraising their head and thorax high and swinging them right to left.

At full growth, larvae burythemselves in the ground and become pupae without making a cocoon.
Use
In Laos, adult use was confirmed, but it is rarely seen in the markets.

It is fried or stir-fried to beserved. People capture the moth with other insects by using a light trap. Sphingidae spp. is notintended to be eaten solely but rather, cooked as mixture with other insects.

255

Reference
秋山黄洋・大桃定洋（2000）月刊むし・昆虫大図鑑シリーズ 4 世界のタマムシ大図鑑．むし社．
東清二 監（2002）琉球列島産昆虫目録 増補改訂版．沖縄生物学会．
梅谷献二（2004）虫を食べる文化誌．創森社．
尾園暁・渡辺賢一・焼田理一郎・小浜継雄（2007）沖縄のトンボ図鑑．ミナミヤンマクラブ．
尾園暁・川島逸郎・二橋亮（2012）ネイチャーガイド

日本のトンボ．文一総合出版．

川合禎次・谷田一三 編（2005）日本産水生昆虫 科・属・種への検索．東海大学出版会．
久保田政雄（1988）ありとあらゆるアリの話．講談社．
杉村光俊・石田昇三・小島圭三・石田勝義・青木典司（1999）原色日本トンボ幼虫・成虫大図鑑．北海道大学図書刊行会．
高見澤今朝雄（2005）日本の真社会性ハチ．信濃毎日新聞社．
都築祐一・谷脇景徳・猪田利夫（1999）水生昆虫完全飼育・繁殖マニュアル．データハウス．
日本産アリ類データベースグループ（2003）日本産アリ類全種図鑑．学習研究社．
日本直翅類学会 編（2006）バッタ・コオロギ・キリギリス大図鑑．北海道大学出版会．
野中健一（2005）民族昆虫学-昆虫食の自然誌．東京大学出版会．
野中健一（2007）虫食む人々の暮らし．NHK ブックス．
野中健一（2009）虫はごちそう! 自然と生きる．小峰書店．
林匡夫・森本桂・木元新作（1984）原色日本甲虫図鑑（Ⅳ）．保育社．
日高敏隆 監，石井実・大谷剛・常喜豊 編（1996）日本動物大百科 第 8 巻 昆虫Ⅰ．平凡社．
日高敏隆 監，石井実・大谷剛・常喜豊 編（1997）日本動物大百科 第 9 巻 昆虫Ⅱ．平凡社．
日高敏隆 監，石井実・大谷剛・常喜豊 編（1998）日本動物大百科 第 10 巻

昆虫Ⅲ．平凡社．

三橋淳（2008）世界昆虫食大全．八坂書房．
三橋淳（2010）昆虫食古今東西．工業調査会．
三橋淳（2012）昆虫食文化事典．八坂書房．
森正人・北山昭（2002）改訂版 図説 日本のゲンゴロウ．文一総合出版．
山根正気・幾留秀一・寺山守（1999）南西諸島産有剣ハチ・アリ類検索図説．北海道大学図書刊行会．
渡辺盛晃（2009）ラオスの森の恵み．NARC アジア農山漁村ネットワーク．
J. L. Gressitt.（1951）Longicorn beetles of China．Longicornia，2:406．
Svatopluk P, J.Zidek. & K.Werner. （ 2009 ） Giant Dung Beetles of the Genus Heliocopris（Scarabaeidae）．Taita Publishes．

256

Snails and Bivalves

257

258

Snails and Bivalves ――――――――――
Freshwater shellfish is popularly consumed by people along Mekong River. Live, heated, andcooked ones are available in markets, and they are also cooked and served at home daily. Roasted
or boiled shellfish are sold at the stall in the city, and one can even eat right there. Among theshellfish sold in market, snails are most widely available both commercially and domesticallybecause they are easily caught in nearby Mizube (water front) such as paddy or marsh. Bivalves
are not as commonly seen as snails, but there are some available in the market, often ones caught inrivers. Not only aquatic snails, but land snails are also consumed.
The study team confirmed
about 40 species (subspecies) including land snails such as Cyclophoridae, Ariophantidae, andaquatic snails such as Pilidae, Viviparidae, Thiaridae and aquatic bivalves such as Unionidae,
Cyrenidae. Because it is difficult to identify shellfish at the site, we assume that there are more
species than the ones we recognized during the study.
The most popular freshwater snail in Mekong river basin would be Applesnail (Ampullariidae) and
Vivipalidae. Reason for the high popularity is they are abundant and easily caught in thesurrounding areas such as paddy, marsh, and lakes. People are often sighted in water front nearhouse to catch just enough to make dinner. Applesnail is an alien species from Central and SouthAmerica, but they are widely habituated throughout Indochina peninsula and have become one of
the most popularly used snails. However, Applesnail is also known for damaging rice crops and it
is becoming a serious issue as the damage become widespread. Other popular snails other thanApplesnail and Vivipalidae are pleuroceridae, bivalve, and land snails. Tegillarca granosa (related
to Bloody clam) are small bivalves which have distinctively thick shells and bright red blood.
They are often sold at market and stalls, but we do not include them as local Mizube no Sachi they
are collected in tidal flat and brought inland.
Shellfish introduced in this section are available throughout year, although the ones live in rivers
increase amount of catch during dry season when the water level is low. Paddies dry up during dry
season, and people take the opportunity to dig and collect Vivipalidae and Applesnail. They areoften stir-fried, steamed, or boiled with spices and herbs to rid the strong smell.

259

Morphology of Snails and Bivalves

Snail
Apex

Shell height

AperturBivalve

Shell height

Shell length260

Order: Architaenioglossa
Family: Cyclohphoridae

Cyclophoridae spp.
LA

Hoy hom

KH

Kchong heinTH

Hoy ma la you

VN

Oc

Ốc

JP

Yama-tanishi

ヤマタニシ科の複数種

Remarks

Basic Information
It is distributed in Indo-China, mainland China, Hainan
Island (China), Taiwan, Batan Island (the Philippines), andJapan. It is a type of gastropod. Although terrestrial, it is

Cyclophorus sp. ( cf. sogmaensis )23 Jul. 2010 Near Wat Phou,Champasak, Laos

different from the common snail as it has a lid on the shell
opening and eyes on the bottom of its antennae. The
opening of the shell is rather large and the edge is thick. It
has no gills. It is found in between fallen leaves in theshades of lowland to the mountains.
Use
They are prepared in the following ways: cooking themwith shells-on in salted and spiced hot water, roasting themwith the shells-on and dip them in chili sauce, or put in

Cyclophorus sp. ( cf. sogmaensis )23 Jul. 2010 Near Wat Phou, Champasak,Laosa soup. In Laos, they are boiled with Chinese star anise and dipped in chili sauce and served. The
savory aroma of star anise is tantalizing.
The team confirmed its use as food in Cambodia and Laos. Large amounts are consumed especiallyin Southern Laos. During a market research, 4 species of Cyclophorus were confirmed as being
sold. It is found in open markets alongside the suburban roads, and more so than in big markets inthe central city. Its collection is done by hand, picking individuals on tree trunks in the forests.

261

14 Sep. 2011

Kok Market, Khammouane, Laos

23 Jul. 2010

Near Wat Phou, Champasak, Laos

23 Jul. 2010

Cyclophorus spp.
Near Wat Phou, Champasak, Laos

14 Sep. 2011

Kok Market, Khammouane, Laos

14 Sep. 2011

Cyclophorus sp. 3
Kok Market, Khammouane, Laos

14 Sep. 2011

Cyclophorus sp. 2
Kok Market, Khammouane, Laos

Cyclophorus sp. 2

14 Sep. 201114 Sep. 2011

262

Khammouane, Laos

Cyclophorus sp. 2
Kok Market, Khammouane, Laos

23 Jul. 2010

Cyclophorus sp. 1
Near Wat Phou, Champasak, Laos

23 Jul. 2010

Cyclophorus sp. 1
Near Wat Phou, Champasak, Laos

14 Sep. 2011

Cyclophorus sp. 2
Kok Market, Khammouane, Laos

14 Sep. 2011

Cyclophorus sp. 2
Kok Market, Khammouane, Laos

14 Sep. 2011

Cyclophorus sp. 3
Kok Market, Khammouane, Laos

14 Sep. 2011

Cyclophorus sp. 3
Kok Market, Khammouane, Laos

263

Order: Architaenioglossa
Family: Ampullariidae

Pomacea canaliculataLA

Hoy pakkouang

KH

Kchong sraeTH

Hoy cherry

VN

Oc buou vangỐc bươu vàngJP

Sukumi-ringogai

スクミリンゴガイ

Remarks

Basic Information
It originated in Central and South America, and has beentransplanted in parts of Asia since the 1980s. It is a type of

17 Feb .2010

Song, Champasak, Laossnail with the shell length of 80mm. The shell is close tospherical and its color varies from yellow-brown to blackish
brown. Some shells have stripes. It is found in ricepaddies, marshes, waterways, rivers, ponds, and lakes. It
can tolerate drought, and survives the dry season by
burying itself in the mud. It is omnivorous and prefers soft
rice leaves which cause crop damage in various areas.

It islabeled as one of the 100 World’s Worst Invasive Alien
Species.

14 Nov. 2008 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Its eggs are bright pink. Females go above water to lay eggs on plants, stakes, or walls ofwaterways. Eggs hatch in about 2 weeks.
UseAmong the edible shells, this snail is as popular as river sanails. It is commonly found in markets
as well. It is very easily collected which makes it a popular dish in many homes. It is roasted orboiled and served with chili sauce and fish sauce, or cooked together with herbs such as tamarindand lemongrass. Kebabs of roasted snails seasoned with MSG or fish sauce are sold atmarkets. Sometimes it is boiled and fed to cattle and hogs. It is collected in nearby rice paddies
and marshes. It can be picked by hand or scooped with nets or colanders. When using a net orcolander, one has to sort snails from other aquatic species. Farmers frequently go out to collect it ina rice paddy as a means to collect food as well as to prevent it from feeding on newly sprouted rice
plants. Other species of the genus Pila that resembles the shape of this snail are confirmed in
Cambodia.

264

14 Nov. 2008

25 Jul. 2010

AlbinoNapuheuy, Vientiane Province,
Laos

11 Oct. 2010

Vientiane Province, Laos

26 Nov. 200919 Nov. 2009 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

01 Sep. 2010

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Egg mass
Dong Borng, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

28 Jul. 2008 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Vientiane Capital, Laos

12 Dec. 2010

265

Vientiane, Laos

20 Dec. 2010

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

24 Jul. 2008

Khun Neua, Vientiane Province,
Laos

27 Feb. 2009

Pila sp. 1
Kampong Thom, Cambodia

09 Nov. 2008

Xiangmouak, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

10 Apr. 2009

Ra ka thnorl, Takeo, Cambodia

05 Jan. 2009

Pila sp. 3
06 Jan. 2009 Vi hear Kphours, Kampong
Cham, Cambodia

30 Jan. 2009

266

Pila polita

Pila sp. 2
Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Pila sp. 4
Traw Paing Roung, Takeo,
CambodiaOrder: Architaenioglossa
Family: Viviparidae

Viviparidae spp.
LA

Hoy choup

KH

Kchau k’hai，Kchau dong，Kchau tnaotTH

Hoy khomVN

Oc dangỐc đắng

JP

Tanishi

タニシ科の複数種

Remarks

Basic Information
It is a water spiral snail with shell length of 20 to80mm. The opening is covered with a thick lid. As it

Filopaludina (Filopaludina) sp. 1
05 Jan. 2009 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

matures, the shell around the opening becomes black andthicker. Its habitats are lakes, ponds, rice paddies, andrivers. The fertilization occurs in vivo and females raise
eggs until they grow into young snails and then give birth.
Use
It is one of the most familiar and important water spiralsnails as food.

Most of the time, it is boiled to beserved. After it is boiled with its shell on, people pull out
the meat with a toothpick, or suck the meat out from24 Nov. 2009 Phonekeo, Vientiane
Province, Laosthe shell. It is commonly seen in the market, but also very popularly caught and consumed athome. Collection is done by hand, picking them while walking along the shore. During the dry
season, it buries itself in the mud of a rice paddy.

People scrape and scoop the mud at the bottom ofa rice plant to find the snail. Also, in the dry season when the pond is dry, large amounts of water
spiral snails can be collected. Water spiral snails that are collected in the study areas are multiple
species. People eat any snails that are large enough.

267

15 Sep. 2007

Tonle Sap, Siem Reap, Cambodia

25 Jun. 2010

Trochotaia trochoides

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Province,
Laos

08 Nov. 2008 Tha Heua Market,
Louang Phrabang, Laos

16 Jan. 2013 Bang Lam Phoo Market,
Khon Kaen, Thailand

24 Nov. 2009 Mueng Song,Vientiane Province, Laos

24 Nov. 2009 Mueng Song,Vientiane Province, Laos

24 Nov. 2009 Mueng Song,Vientiane Province, Laos

24 Nov. 2009 Mueng Song,Vientiane Province, Laos268

06 Dec. 2009

Filopaludina (Filopaludina) sumatrensis

Vientiane Capital, Laos

27 Feb. 2009

Filopaludina (Filopaludina) sumatrensis subsp.
17 Feb. 2010

Filopaludina (Filopaludina) sumatrensis subsp. 2

1
Song, Champasak, Laos

24 Jun. 2009

Filopaludina (Siamopaludina) maekoki

24 Jun. 2009

Kampong Thom, Cambodia

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province, Laos

Filopaludina (Siamopaludina) sp. ( cf. martensi )Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
Laos

17 Feb. 2010

Filopaludina (Siamopaludina) martensi
cambodjensis

23 Jun. 2009269

Dao Heuang Market, Champasak,
Laos

Idiopoma dissimilis

Mueng Song, Vientiane Province,
LaosIdiopoma ingallsiana

26 Feb.2009

26 Feb.2009

Kampong Thom, Cambodia

18 Jul. 2010

Mekongia sp. 2

Kampong Thom, Cambodia

25 Jun. 2010

270

Mekongia sp. 1
Near Central Market, Kampong
Cham, Cambodia

Trochotaia trochoides

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
LaosOrder: Mesogastoropoda
Family: Thiaridae

Thiaridae spp.
LA

Hoy lekchan

KH

Cha chraingTH

Hoy chedi

VN

Oc lenỐc lenJP

Tougata-kawanina

トウガタカワニナ科の複数種

Remarks

Basic Information
It is a type of snail. The shape of the shell varies fromspindle to a long narrow cylinder, which is narrower andlonger than the shell of a Viviparidae spp. The lid has a

Brotia manningi
10 Jun. 2009 Xiengngeun, Louang
Phabang, Laosleather-like texture. There are two types; one lay eggs andthe other keeps the eggs inside and when they grow into
young snails they gives birth.
Use
Compared to Viviparidae spp. or Pomacea canaliculata, it isless often used, but still it is commonly found as food. It issold live at markets, and cooked ones are available at

25 May 2009

Louang Phabang, Laos

stalls. It is boiled to be served most of the time. The ones sold in the stalls are often seasoned withchili and are spicy. It is collected by grouping hands in small rivers or waterways. In the ricepaddies in flatland, Viviparidae spp. or Pomacea canaliculata are more often found because they areeasier to collect. Iin the mountain areas where there are less rice paddies, Thiaridae spp. can beused more often. Although Luan Pulabang in Laos is in a mountain area where there are not manyrice paddies, large amounts of Brotia manningi were collected in nearby small rivers and sold atmarkets.
Larger type of genus Brotia, is used more often, but use of Tarebia granifera and Thiara scabra are
confirmed as well. However, those smaller types of snails are not selectively used, rather, mixed inwith the larger type of snails.

271

Brotia manningi
25 May 2009

26 May 2009 Nam Ming, Louang Phrabang, Laos

Phoshy Market, Louang Phrabang, Laos

Brotia manningi

26 May 2009 Nam Ming, Louang Phrabang, Laos

26 May 2009 Nam Ming, Louang Phrabang, Laos

Brotia sp. ( cf. binodosa )27 Feb. 2009

Brotia sp. (cf. microsculpta )Kampong Thom, Cambodia

18 Feb. 2010

Dao Heuang Market, Champasak, Laos

May 2009

Vangvieng, Vientiane Province, Laos

Tarebia granifera
23 Jun. 2009

Thiara scabraSong, Vientiane Province, Laos

272

Order: Stylommatophora
Family: Ariophantidae

Hemiplecta sp. ( cf. distincta )LA

Hoy khao leuane，Hoy satang

KH

Kchong hien，Kchong dua

TH

Hoy duea

VN

Oc mo

Ốc mỡ

JP

Neptune-oomaimai

ネプチューンオオマイマイ属の一種

Remarks

Basic Information
It is a type of snail without a lid. Its eyes are located at the
tip of its antennae. It is mainly herbivore, but sometimes
will eat particles of dirt and shells of other snails. Mating

Hemiplecta sp. ( cf. distincta )23 Jul. 2010 Near Wat Phou,Champasak, Laos

occurs annually during the late dry period to the beginningof the rain period.
Use
It was spotted at a market in southern Laos. It is roasted,
steamed, or boiled with its shell and served with chilisauce. The boiled ones felt slimy in one’s mouth and could
not taste the snail itself.
Other land snail that is confirmed as a food source isCamaena sp. Its preparation is same as this species.

273

Hemiplecta sp. ( cf. distincta )19 Feb. 2010 Thakhek, Khammouane,
Laos

Hemiplecta sp. ( cf. distincta )23 Jul. 2010

Near Wat Phou, Champasak, Laos

23 Jul. 2010

Near Wat Phou, Champasak, Laos

20 Jan. 2013

Hemiplecta sp.
Noun Market, Champasak, Laos

Hemiplecta sp. ( cf. distincta )23 Jul. 2010

Hemiplecta sp. ( cf. distincta )Camaena sp.

11 Oct. 2011

Near Wat Phou, Champasak, Laos

19 Feb. 2010

Thakhek, Khammouane, Laos

20 Jan. 2013

Hemiplecta sp.
Noun Market, Champasak, Laos

Camaena sp.

Laos

11 Oct. 2011

274

Laos

Order: Unionoida
Family: Unionidae

Unionidae spp.
LA

Hoy kii，Hoy xai

KH

Krom

TH
VN

Ngao

Ngao

JP

Ishi-gai

イシガイ科の複数種

Remarks

Basic Information
It is a type of bivalve with a medium to large shell size. The
shapes vary from egg-shaped to triangular. Pearlescence

Cristaria sp.(cf. plicata)
18 Feb. 2010 PakPeo , Champasak, Laoinside the shell is extremely bright. Unionidae spp. can bedivided into two broad groups: one with teeth and one
without teeth. All the species live in fresh water, between
rocks or under mud.
Use
It is boiled with Tamarind leaves to be served. People likethis dish with beer. It is collected mostly in rivers, using
hand or hand-held nets. It is not seen in markets as often,
however, if there is a pile of Unionidae spp in the market, it
will contain several species and many types of shells
are mixed.

275

19 Nov. 2009

Hou Kua Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

24 Nov. 2009

Phonekeo, Vientiane Province, Laos

Ensidens ingallsiana

26 Feb. 2009

Kampong Thom, Cambodia

18 Feb. 2010

Physunio cambodiensis

May 2009 Nalao, Vientiane Province, Laos

13 Feb. 2010

Pseudodon vondembuschianus chaperi

29 Jun. 200918 Feb. 2010

Lak14 Market, Champasak, Laos

Hyriopsis delaportei

Lak14 Market, Champasak, Laos

Pilsbryconcha exilis

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Pseudodon vondembuschianus ellipticus

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

29 Jun. 2009

276

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

26 Feb. 200912 Feb. 2010

Scabies crispate

Kampong Thom , Cambodia

24 Jun. 2009

Uniandra sp. 2
Kok Sa Moi, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

277

Uniandra sp. 1
Phonekeo, Vientiane Province,
LaosOrder: Veneroida

Corbicula spp.

Family: Corbiculidae

LA

Hoy kii，Hoy xai，Hoy lep
maa

KH

Liah bangTH

Hoy sai

VN

Hen

Hế n

JP

Shizimi-gai

シジミ属の複数種

Remarks

Basic Information
It is a small bivalve which is smaller than Unionidae spp..
It is often found buried in the sand under the water.

Corbicula fluminea
29 Jun. 2009 Dong Makkai Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
It is eaten boiled with the shell-on, in the same way as the Unionidae spp.. Often times it is boiled
with spices and herbs such as Tamarind leaves. It is collected by hand and hand-held nets.

03 Nov. 200806 Nov. 2008

Central Market, Phnom Penh,
Cambodia

14 Sep. 2007

Neak Loeung, Kandal, Cambodia

278

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Corbicula fluminea f. insularis

29 Jun. 200918 Jul. 2010

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

18 Jul. 2010

Corbicula sp. 1
Near Central Market, Kampong
Cham, Cambodia

18 Jul. 2010

279

Corbicula moreletiana

Near Central Market, Kampong
Cham, Cambodia

Corbicula sp. 2
Near Central Market, Kampong
Cham, Cambodia

Reference
東正雄（1982）原色日本陸産貝類図鑑．保育社．
内田亨 監修（1999）動物系統分類学 5（上)軟体動物（I）．中山書店．
紀平肇・内山りゅう・松田征也（2003）日本産淡水貝類図鑑①琵琶湖・淀川産の淡水貝類．ピーシー

ズ．
多紀保彦

監・自然環境研究センター

編著（2008）日本の外来生物．平凡社．

パナ,ソムサク（1987）タイ産食用カタツムリ Hemiplecta distincta (Pfeiffer) の繁殖生態 The
Breeding Data of Thai Edible Land Snail Hemiplecta distincta (Pfeiffer) (Pulmonata :Ariophantidae)，貝類学雑誌 Venus : the Japanese journal of malacology，46(1)：25-34．
増田修・内山りゅう（2004）日本産淡水貝類図鑑 ②汽水域を含む全国の淡水貝類．ピーシーズ．
山田真弓・内田亨 監修（1997）動物系統分類学 5（下) 軟体動物（II）．中山書店．
「Global invasive species database」 http://www.issg.org/database/welcome/280

Other Invertebrates

281

282

Other Invertebrates――――――――――

Many other groups of animals other than those introduced in previous chapters are consumed asfood in Mekong river basin. Mammals, birds, crustacean, spiders are sold in market. Several ofthem are collected in the neighborhood and used daily. In this section, we will introduce
crustacean and spiders.
Among crustacean, shrimps and crabs are commonly sold and purchased. Most of the species
used in inland are freshwater source. We confirmed close to ten species of crustacean in this study.
Identification of crustacean is difficult at the site, so it is assumed that there are more species being
used. In large markets, marine crabs are also sold but we did not include them in this report.
Macrobrachium rosenbergiiis cultured and has higher commercial value, so its distribution is stable.
Other smaller shrimps and freshwater crab (Order Brachyura) are wild caught. Most of the catches
that are sold in large quantity are collected in rivers and lakes, but many are also from paddies andmarshes. Many of the food that are caught and consumed at home are Mizube no Sachi and areforaged from neighboring shallow waters. Common cooking methods for those are deep frying,roasting, stir-frying and boiling. These home-style dishes can be found in restaurant menu, andsalted stir-fried small shrimps are the most popular and sold at food stalls as well.
As for spiders, so-called tarantulas are used as food. Both live and cooked ones are sold in market,
but cooked ones are seen more often. Tarantulas are more preferably eaten in some parts of
Cambodia and it is not rare occasion to come across them in markets in those areas. Most of thetime tarantulas are deep fried to eat. In this study, spiders other than tarantulas were notconfirmed.

283

Morphology of Crustacea
Total length
RostrumLeg
1stparaeopod
2nd paraeopod

TergumMorphology of Spider

Pedipalpus
Eye

Cephalothorax
Body length
Abdomen284

Order: Decapoda
Family: Palaemonidae

Palaemonidae spp.
LA

Khung

KH

Kompuh

TH

Khung

VN

Tep rong

Tép rong

JP

Tenaga-Ebi and its allies

テナガエビ科の複数種

Remarks

General Information

20 Jan. 2013 Pakse New Market,
Champasak, Laos

Smaller species of these shrimp measure about 4 to 7cm, andlarger species of Macrobrachium rosenbergii are about 30cm
long.

Large male species have a long second pair of legs,

often longer than its body. Their habitat is mainly fresh
water but they migrate to the ocean during the breading
season.

They prefer areas with aquatic plants and somecurrents to live in.
Use
For the people in Indo-China, these shrimp are popular food

27 Jan. 2013

Khung teng
Vientiane Capital, Laosand are consumed daily. Large shrimp are sorted and sold by themselves, while smaller ones are
mixed in with other aquatic organisms and sold.

Their preparation methods are; roast, stir-fry,

cook, boil, and steam. They are also used in an omelet, soup, and a salad.
raw.

Some people like it

In Laos, there is a dish in which live shrimp are mixed in a herb salad with chili. In

Cambodia, there is a fried bun with shrimp.
These shrimp are abundant in marsh areas with aquatic plants.
nets or by using traps.

People catch them by hand-held

They are often caught and consumed at home, so it is commonly seen in

everyday meals.

285

20 Jan. 2013

Pakse New Market, Champasak,
Laos

07 Jul. 2011

Kampong Cham, Cambodia

28 Nov. 200926 Nov. 200918 Feb. 2010

15 Sep. 2007

Champasak, Laos

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Vientiane Capital, Laos

26 Nov. 2009

Dong Borng, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Dong Borng, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

15 Sep. 2007

Tonle Sap, Siem Reap, Cambodia

286Order: Decapoda
Family: Palaemonidae

Macrobrachium rosenbergii
LA

Khung kam ngai

KH

Bon kong

TH

Khung yaiVN

Tom cang xanh

Tôm càng xanhJP

Oni-tenaga-ebi

オニテナガエビ

Remarks

General Information
Their habitat range is from South Asia to Southeast Asia
and North Australia.

19 Jul. 2010

Kratie, Cambodia

It is said to originate in Malay

Peninsula. The maximum length is 32cm for male and 25cm
for female.

When a male extends its claws, it exceeds 80cm.

The body is brownish-red, and its claws are dull blue.

They

live along a downstream river to a brackish water region andmove down to the ocean during the laying period.
09 Sep. 2007

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Use
They are seen at market regularly, often sold alive in a fish tank or in a basin.

Roasting, frying,boiling and steaming are the common method for cooking this shrimp. They are popular on menus
in eateries.

They are cultured worldwide and so as in Thailand and Vietnam in Indo-China region.

287

19 Nov. 2009 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

12 Sep. 2007 Thong Khan Kham Market,
Vientiane Capital, Laos

2008.Nov.03

16 Jan. 2013

Central Market, Phnom Penh,
Cambodia

03 Nov. 2008

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

288

Bang Lam Phoo Market, Khon
Kaen, Thailand

Order: Decapoda
Family:Brachyura spp.
LA

Ka pouKH

Kdarm，Kdarm srae，Kdarm
phnom

TH

Poo，PuVN

Cua dong, Ba khia

Cua đồng, Ba khía

JP

Kani

カニ類

Remarks

General Information
They have one pair of claws.

27 May 2009 Xiangmouak, Louang
Phrabang, Laos

The form of their claws andshape of their teeth vary significantly reflecting their typesof diet. The structure of their shells differs as well, fromones with protuberance and bristle hair to others withsmooth shells.

Females have a broader abdomen than themales because females lay eggs and protect them in theabdomen. They are found in every type of aquatic region,
so they have a wide variety of lifestyles.

Some even dig

deep holes in sandy clay, live in a forest floor, or up a tree.

20 Jan. 2013

Champasak, Laos

Use
In the market, freshwater crabs that belong to two families in the Parathelphusidae, were sold.
They are prepared by frying, roasting, boiling, steaming, or put in a soup.
ingredients in fish sauce (crab sauce).
with citrus juice squeezed on top.

They are also used as

In Cambodia, these crabs are pickled with salt and served

In Xayabury province in Cambodia and northern Thailand,

people typically use crab paste called Nam Pou. Nam Pou is made by crashing the crabs, straining
the juice, mixing in salt and spices (galangal root, garlic, and chili) then boiling this down until it
becomes paste.
noodles.

Nam Pou is used as a dip for vegetable and steamed sweet rice, or put in soups andIt can be stored up to 1 to 2 years.

The crabs that are used in Nam Pou are often

collected in paddies near houses, and it is said that the smaller the size, the better the taste.
Smaller crabs living near paddies are often caught by hand.

A collector would put his hand in a

crabs’ burrow which is found along the rim of the rice paddies and pull out the crabs.
live in mountain streams are often caught by using funnel traps.
who catches mid-sized crabs with his hand.
would nip his fingers.

Crabs that

The research team met a person

He would put his hand in a crab’s burrow and a crab

He would pull them out so his hands were full of scratches.

289

27 May 2009

Xiangmouak, Louang Phrabang,Laos

27 May 2009

Xiangmouak, Louang Phrabang,Laos

27 May 2009

Somanniathelphusa sp.

23 Jul. 2008

Somanniathelphusa sp.

12 Sep. 2007

Dong Makkai, Vientiane Capital,
Laos

Somanniathelphusa sp.

Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

30 May 2009

Xiangmouak, Louang Phrabang,
Laos

10 Jun. 2007

Nonsard Market, Vientiane
Capital, Laos

Talat Sao, Vientiane Capital, Laos

14 Sep. 2011

290

Khammouane, Laos

12 Sep. 2011

Bolikhamsai, Laos

17 Jul. 2010

Cheo-Nam Pou
18 Sep. 2011 Sainyabuli, Laos

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Cheo-Nam Pou
18 Sep. 2011 Sainyabuli, Laos

27 May 2009

Na Kham, Louang Phrabang, Laos

27 May 2009

Na Kham, Louang Phrabang, Laos

27 May 2009

Na Kham, Louang Phrabang, Laos

22 Nov. 2009

Na Kom, Vientiane Province, Laos

291

Pilosamon sp.
Feb.2010 Laos

Pudaengon hinpoon

Parathelphusidae: Esanthelphusa sp.
Feb.2010 Cambodia

Parathelphusidae: Heterothelphusa beauvoisi
Feb.2010 Cambodia

Parathelphusidae: Sayamia germaini
Feb.2010 Cambodia

Parathelphusidae: Sayamia melanodactylus
Feb.2010 Laos

Parathelphusidae: Somanniathelphusa lacuvita
Feb.2010 Cambodia

Parathelphusidae: Somanniathelphusa sp.
13 Sep. 2007 Dong Makkai Market, Vientiane
Capital, LaosFeb.2010 Laos292

Order: Araneae
Family: Atypidae

Haplopelma sp.
LA

Bung

KH

Aping krobai

TH
VN

Nhen

Nhện

JP

Oo-tsuchi-gumo (Tarantula)

オオツチグモ(タランチュラ)

Remarks

Basic Information
They are often called Tarantulas in general.

They measure

18 Jul. 2010 Kampong Cham,
Cambodia

about 8 to 10cm. They are large arachnids with a stocky
body covered with bristle hair. Legs are thick and joints areshort. There are a group of species called the Tree Spiders.
Their nests are made in hollows of tree trunks above ground.
The Earth Tiger makes the nest underground or under thefallen, decomposing tree.

Usually Tarantulas live one pernest, but sometimes female lives with her offspring while
they are young.

Tarantulas have a very long life span,some live a few decades.

03 Nov. 2008 Central Market, Phnom
Penh, Cambodia

Use
The research team observed tarantula (Haplopelma longipes) sold at market.
sold after being cooked, but live ones are occasionally sold.

Tarantulas are often

They are usually served fried.

Kampong Cham in Cambodia is known for Tarantula catching and many residents collecttarantulas.

Recently catching tarantulas is also becoming popular in Kampong and Siem Reap.

293

18 Jul. 2010

Kampong Cham, Cambodia

18 Jul. 2010

Kampong Cham, Cambodia

18 Jul. 2010

Kampong Cham, Cambodia

18 Jul. 2010

Kampong Cham, Cambodia

18 Jul. 2010

Kampong Cham, Cambodia

21 Jul. 2009294

Vientiane Capital, Laos

Reference
朝日新聞社（1992）週刊世界動物百科 動物たちの地球 69 無脊椎動物 9 サワガニ・コメツキガニほか．
朝日新聞社．
石毛直道・ケネス,ラドル（1987）東南アジアの魚醤 -魚の発酵製品の研究(5)-．国立民族学博物館研究報告，vol.12-2：235-314．国立
民族学博物館．
小野展嗣（2009）日本産クモ類．東海大出版会．
河野博 編（2001）東南アジア市場図鑑 魚貝篇．弘文堂．
武田正倫・波部重久・久保田正秀（2011）ラオスおよびカンボジア産サワガニ類数種の記録．帝京平成大学紀要，22(1):205-226．
林健一（1999）日本産エビ類の分類と生態（108） テナガエビ科・テナガエビ亜科—フウライテナガエ
ビ属・シラタエビ属．海洋と生物，124:389．
ワイルダー,マーシー（2002）オニテナガエビ Macrobrachium rosenbergii．日本比較内分泌学会ニュース，2002(107):18-19．
FAO（1980）FAO SPECIES CATALOGUE Vol.1 SHRIMPS AND PRAWNS OF THE WORLDAn

Annotated Catalogue of Species of Interest to Fisheries，pp.103-104．FAO．
Yukio Hanamura・Hideyuki Imai・Oulaytham Lasasimma・Pany Souliyamath・Sayaka Ito（2011）Freshwater prawans of the genus Macrobrachium Bate, 1868 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Palaemonidae)
from Laos．Zootaxa 3025:1-37．

295

296

Plants297

298

Plants――――――――――――――――

Plants of Mizube no Sachi are edible plants grown around villages. People pick them up on theway home from work at the end of the day, or elders and children who stay home would pick themup to make day’s meal. Waterfront in Mekong river basin has plenty of sunshine and hightemperature. It is an ideal habitat for Kaseth (Neptunia oleracea) or Phak Bong (Ipomoea
aquatica) and other aquatic plants. Some terrestrial plants such as Yanang (Tiliacora triandra) andSamek (Syzygium antisepticum) are not picked up as weed, but let growing in open spaces andbushes of commons. Spices and herbs that are often incorporated in cooking are also left to growin home gardens in homes. We conducted a questionnaire survey about uses of foodstuff at homes
in Vientiane Province and Vientiane Capital in Laos in 2010. The result showed Mizube no Sachi
accounted for about half of plant food source.
These plants are not only collected from natural distribution, but some of them are brought bypeople and grown in villages. Even though they are transplanted for harvesting, those kind ofplants receive only a minimum care such as weeding, but even that is advantageous among
competitive environment. Many of Mizube no Sachi plants are treated in such semi domestication.
These plants may be indigenous to Mekong river basin or brought from ancient Africa, and more
recently, introduced from new continent. Taro and Yam which played a vital role in the root
cultivation which originated in ancient Southeast Asia are found as reminiscent of past as Mizube no
Sachi. The origin of the plants of Mizube no Sachi range widely, but it is researcher’s notion thatthey have a long history of being incorporated into human civilization.

Picture: Where Mizube no Sachi grow. Neither from mountain, nor from ocean.
Paddy field in Vientiane, Laos (Right before rain season)

Taste of Mizube no Sachi varies widely as well.
Its unique taste cannot be compared to familiar
taste of carrots or cabbage and other garden vegetables. Many of Mizube no Sachi plants havestrong bitterness and acidity. Especially the bitterness of some was so strong that for Japanese299

who are not used to tasting bitter food, we had some difficulty getting accustomed to it. (In thepast, Japanese used to collect wild plants and many of them tasted bitter. But modern Japanese
have lost this custom except for having them as occasional seasonal delicacy.) We thought
bitterness was distinctive, but an elderly Lao woman said, “Today’s young people do not eat bitter
food as much. When I was young, we were always told to ‘eat bitter for your health’.” In local
published literature, there are descriptions on uses of plant in traditional medicine as well as food.
Some of them are hard to believe at first, but many of the plants’ chemical components have been
extracted and tested, and proven to be truly beneficial. In this report, those traditional healing
methods are briefly introduced based on the original description. It is because this belief ispossibly a reason that plant diet of people has been comprised of such variety in Mekong river basin.
We do have to state a warning that it is not the intension of this report to prove the effect of
medicinal power, so please do not try to medicinally use the plants according to this report.
We had generous cooperation from professionals around the world in order to record the plants incorrect taxonomy. Lao names of plants referred "Mike Callaghan (2004), Lao Plants listed bybotanical, common, & regional / Asean names with Lao names & Lao script" with cooperation of
Lao University Department of Science. Cambodian names of plants are based on "Pauline Dy
Phon (2000), Dictionary of Plants used in Cambodia" with direction of Royal University of Phnom
Penh Department of Science. Thai names are quoted from Flora of Thailand based on direction of
Dr. Thaya of Mahidol University. Japanese names are derived from Web version of BG Plants
which Japanese plant scientists support. We also referred a book written by Mrs. Yoshiko Yoshida,a Southeast Asian food sources culture researcher, and some other reference books. As forscientific names, we chose The Plant List as the sole science name source to avoid confusion ofsynonyms being used for same plant species.
In this chapter, 142 species from three classes, 35 orders, 68 families of Mizube no Sachi plants are
introduced. Those are popular plants and commonly sold in markets.

Ka don tree (Careya arborea) in paddy
17 Feb. 2010 Pakse, Laos

Glossary of plant in this chapter
26 Sep. 2009 Vientiane, Laos300

Nymphaea rubra and Ipomoea aquatica
9 Oct. 2013 Chau doc, Vietnam

Flloating-lea
aved plantt

Emergennt plant

Float plant

Free floa
ating plannt

Submmerged pla
ant
Water levellRoot in botttom
Raandupper partpc
comeout in thea from the wa
air
ater
s
surface.

Root in the bottom
and the leaves andstems unnderwater.
Only a flower ismade too bloom in
the air.

Root in th
he bottom
and it open
ns mature
leaves on thetwater
surface.

A basal root iss in the ashorre, ashhoot with flooat elongates thewaterw
surface. Leaves and stems
arre extended in the air.

ot floats withoout
A rooadhering to the bottoom.

Life-form ofo aquaticc plant

50m
40m
30m

20m

10m

E
Emergent
tree

Tree

Sm
mall tree

Life-foorm of wo
oody plannt

301

ClimberShrub

Mizube no Sachi plants used for Lao cooking

Chaom(Acacia pennata Subsp.), Bamboo, Yanan(Tiliacora triandra), Waen (Marsilea crenata)
2 Sep. 2012 Vientiane Laos

Pong(Sagittaria guayanensis), Khin (Zingiber officinale),Horm parn (Coriandrum sativum), Pumpkin flower andleaf (Cucurbita maxima)
20 Aug. 2010 Vientiane, Laos

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)
30 Nov. 2010 Naxaitong, Vientiane, Laos

Kheelak (Senna siamea), Yanan, Khaa (Alpinia
galanga), Kheua kheun (Solanum capsicoides)
3 Oct. 2010 Vientiane, Laos

Cassava leaf (Manihot esculenta)
1 Aug. 2010 Vientiane, Laos

Yanan, Kha yang (Limnophila aromatica), Kheua kheun,
Hom pae (Eryngium foetidum)
3 Oct. 2010 Vientiane, Laos302

Order: Salviniales
Family: Marsileaceae

Marsilea crenata
LA

Waen

°ñ¡Á¸−

KH

Chantol pnomចន្ទល់ភ្នំ

TH

Waen, Limpiผักแว่น

VN

Rau bo, Rau deu rang

Rau bợ, Rau dệu răngJP

Nangoku-denjisou

ナンゴクデンジソウ

Remarks

Distribution: Tropical and sub-tropical Asia.
Life form: Aquatic fern. Emergent. 5-50cm tall. Root stalks
expand horizontally in the soil. Grown in paddy fields andshallow village marshes.

Jul. 2008 Vientiane province, Laos

Use: Shoots are eaten as salad with fermented fish or shrimp paste. Young leaves are cooked in asoup. It is used as medicine in Thailand for oral and throat ulcer, and fever.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 20
Order: Polypodiales
Family: Woodsiaceae

Diplazium esculentum
LA

Kouth, Koud nam°ñ¡¡ø©

KH
TH

Kuut khaao

VN

Rang song quan rau, Rau Ráng song quần rau, Rau dớn
donJP

Kuwale-shida

クワレシダ

Remarks

Distribution: From the Himalayas to the Pacific Islands
including south of Kyushu island of Japan.
Life form: Terrestrial fern. Grows alongside streams or

Sep. 2009 Chiang Rai, Thailand

canals along forest edges.
Use: Commonly eaten in Indochinese countries. Raw or slightly boiled shoots are eaten as salad.
Used as an ingredient of various dishes. In Thailand, leaves are used as medicine for fever,inflammation, failing eyesight, anemia, and gingival bleeding. It has a diuretic effect and contains
flavonoid.
Ref. No.: 5, 18, 19, 26

303

Order: Nymphaeales
Family: Nymphaeaceae

Nymphaea lotusLA

Bua khee bae, Bua ngern,
Bua noy

KH

Pralit, Prolet dong្រពលិត

TH

Bua kin saiบัวกินสาย

VN

Sung trang, Sung lam

Súng trắng, Súng lam

JP

Yozaki-suilen

ヨザキスイレン

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from India. Distributed from Africa
to Southeast Asia.
Life form: Floating-leaved plant. Leaves are round, 30-50 cm
in diameter, and spread across the water’s surface.

Jul. 2011 Kratie, Cambodia

Use: The peeled flower-stalk is eaten raw. It has no particular
taste and an enjoyable crunchy texture. Used as an ingredientin various dishes and Cambodian traditional soup.
Traditionally in Cambodia, it is applied as a compress forfever. The plant contains an alkaloid (nupharidine) which has
medical effects. Seeds and root-stalks are used as medicine as
well.
Ref. No.: 18, 27, 38, 46, 48

Sep. Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Order: Nymphaeales
Family: Nymphaeaceae

Nymphaea rubra
LA

Saiboua¦¾¨®ö¸

KH

Proret romchang្រពលិត

TH

Parn dien, Saiboua, Boua บัวสายดอกชมพู
kiepe

VN

Sung doSúng đỏ

JP

Akabana-suilen

アカバナスイレン

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from India. Distributed from Africa
to Southeast Asia.

Sep. 2007 Siem Reap, Cambodia

Life form: Floating-leaved plant. Leaves are round with a
30-50 cm diameter which spread across the water surface.
Use: The peeled flower stalk is eaten raw. It has no
particular taste and an enjoyable crunchy texture. It is used
as an ingredient in various dishes.
Ref. No.: 18, 27, 38, 46, 48
Sep. 2012 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

304

Order: Magnoliales

Uvaria rufa

Family: Annonaceae

LA

Mapipuan

KH

Phlae trealេ្រទៅលេដាះ្រកបី

TH

Phi phuan noiพีพวนน้อย

VN

Bo qua hoe, Day du deBồ quả hoe, dây dù dẻ.

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Indochina, The Philippines and Indonesia.
Life form: Large size climber. Up to 20m tall.
Use: Fruits are used for cooking. In Cambodia, it is used as
postnatal medicine.

Jul. 2010 Pakse, Laos

Ref. No.: 27

Order: Magnoliales

Uvaria sp.
LA

Hao

Family: Annonaceae
Ï¾¡À¢í¾

KH
TH

Maeng krang ， Mung lum
yai，Mang kheng

VN

Bo quaBồ quả

JP
Remarks

Use: Fruits are eaten. It has a slightly sour citrus flavor andis sold at local markets when in season. Its juice is sold in
Vietnam.

305

Jul. 2008 Phonyang, Vientiane Province,
LaosOrder: Piperales

Peperomia pellucid

Family: Piperaceae

LA
KH

Krosangteap

្រកសាំងទាប

TH

Kra sangผักกระสัง

VN

Rau cang cua

Rau càng cua

JPIshigaki-koshou,
Usubana-sunakoshou

イシガキコショウ、ウスバナ
スナコショウRemarks

Distribution: Originated from tropical America. Widely
cultivated in tropical and subtropical countries of the world.
Life form: Annual herb. 10-20 cm tall. The color of a stem istranslucent white.

Jul. 2010 Kratie, Cambodia

Use: Stems and leaves are eaten raw or cooked. Cultivated in backyard gardens and homesteads.
Sap from the leaves is used as oral medicine or liniment. It is known to have a sterilizing effectagainst Staphylococcus aureus and coliform bacteria.
Ref. No.: 5, 42, 45, 46, 47

Order: Piperales

Piper sarmentosum

Family: PiperaceaeLA

Ii leuth, Eilert°ñ¡ºóÀìó©

KH

Chaplu, Komplou

ចាព្លូ

TH

Cha phlu, Eilertช้าพลู

VN

Lot

Lốt

JP

Haigoshou

ハイゴショウRemarks

Distribution: From Northeast India to South China,
Southeast Asia, and the Andamang Islands.
Life form: Perennial herb. lower stems expand across theOct. 2008 Hong Ha, Hué, Vietnam

ground, upper stems assurgent up to 30cm.
It is planted in kitchen gardens or orchard water slots and it also grows wild.
Use: Young leaves are used to dress herbed ground meat, salad, and spicy Thai curry. Boiled leaves
are eaten with fermented fish (shrimp) paste. Leaves are used to wrap fermented meat or
fermented tea leaf (Mien). It is used as a traditional medicine. It has a degassing expectorant effecton the stomach. Roots are prepared as stomachic peptic. Since the leaf contains a high level of oxalic
acid, eating it may cause calculus in the kidneys.
Ref. No.: 5, 10, 26, 47

306

Order: Piperales

Piper sp.
LA

Sa khan, Sakhaa, Sa kharn

Family: Piperaceae
ສະຂ
່ າ

KH
TH

Zakhan

VN

Tieu

Tiêu

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Indochina to Malesia.
Life form: Deciduous tree climber.

Jul. 2008 Phonyang, Vientiane Province,
Laos

Use: Commonly used in northern Laos. Small cut stems are cooked with other ingredients. It is
used as a spice and not eaten directly. Used as medicine for gastric problems and as a compress forcough. It contains eupomatene, crotepoxide, and pipercallosine which are sterilizers.
General info.: There are opinions that this species is P. interruptum however, because thatclassification is still controversial this work will deal with it as Piper sp
Ref. No.: 23, 32, 51

Order: Piperales

Houttuynia cordata

Family: Saururaceae°ñ¡£¾¸êº¤LAKhao thong

KH

Chi slak m'luជរថ្ពាល់ ្រតី, ជរយាបកា

TH

Kra sangผักคาวทอง

VN

Rau giap ca, Diep ca

Rau Giấp cá, Diếp cá

JP

Dokudami

ドクダミ

Remarks

Distribution: Southeast Asia, China to Japan.
Life form: Perennial herb. Expand by underground stems
and vertically elongate to 20-50cm.

Feb. 2010

Savannakhet, Laos

Use: In Northern Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, raw leaves are eaten for a salad. In Cambodia,
leaves are used for aromatization of raw fish. In China, a leaf is not eaten but the undergroundstems are used to dress salad dishes. It contains lauryl aldehyde and quercitrin. In Japan, it is
known also as a medicine called "Jyu-yaku". It is effective for swelling, bug bites, cuts, eye-washing,skin disease, gastroenteric disorders, and is also used as an anthelmintic.
Ref. No.: 14, 18, 23, 27, 29, 42307

Order: Alismatales

Limnocharis flava

Family: Alismataceae

Kan chong°ñ¡¡É¾−¥º¤

KH

Trakiet paong្រតេកៀតេបា៉ង

TH

Talapat ruesi, Bua loi, Bua ตาลปั ตรฤาษี
khuak

VN

Keo neo, Cu neo

Kèo nèo, Cù nèo

JP

Kibana-omodaka

キバナオモダカ

LARemarks

Distribution: Originated from tropical America,
introduced to South and Southeast Asia.
Life form: Aquatic plant. Emergent. Up to 1m tall. It

Sep. 2009 Chiang Rai, Thailand

grows in the shallow ends of a ponds.
Use: The raw or boiled young leaves, buds and inflorescences are used for a salad or a soup.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 27, 46

Sagittaria guayanensis subsp. lappula
LA

Pong

°ñ¡¯ûº¤KH

Chrach្រចាច់

TH

Tao kiat , Phak khang kaiเต่าเกียด

VN

Tu co tron

Từ cô trònJP

Omodaka-modoki

オモダカモドキ

Order: Alismatales
Family: Alismataceae

Remarks

Distribution: From the tropical Africa to East andSoutheast Asia.
Life form: Floating-leaved plant in lakes, swamps, andnearly stagnant water of streams.
Use: Leaves are cooked. It is used as an ingredient in Laos.
Ref. No.: 14, 46, 47

308

Sep. 2007 Vientiane province, Laos

Order: Alismatales

Amorphophallus paeoniifoliusLA

Ka book

KH

Toal

TH

Lum e book

VN

Nua chuong

Family: Araceaeទាល់ ធំ
Nưa chuông

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Thailand, Cambodia and Laos.
Life form: Perennial herb. 1～2m tall. In the ground a stalkgrows a tuber fat. It grows in secondary vegetation, forest

Jul. 2011 Ratanakiri, Cambodia

margins, and village groves.
Use: Edible after leaf stalk are well boiled, drained, and rinsed to rid oxalic acid . It is found at local
markets in select areas of Cambodia, south Laos, and northeast Thailand.
In traditional Laos medicine, it is said that a tuber is effective against malaria.
General info.: It has acrid tubers and stems, due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals andalkaloids.
Ref. No.: 7, 21, 27, 47
Order: Alismatales

Colocasia esculenta

Family: Araceae

LA

Bon

Ã®®º−, °ñ¡®º−

KH

Traw

កា្តតេហារា

VN

Mon nuoc

Môn nước

JP

Sato-imo

サトイモ

THRemarks

Distribution: Originated in Southeast or southern
Central Asia.

Jul. 2008 Vientiane province, Laos

Life form: Perennial herb. Up to 1-2m tall.

Use: Corms, young leaf blades, and petioles can be eaten. The swollen stem base, known as corms,
were the most important staple food in the ancient agricultural cultures all throughout southeast
Asia. Oceania, and west Japan.
Ref. No.: 36,45, 47309

Order: Alismatales

Lasia spinosa

Family: Araceae

Phak nam

°ñ¡−Õ

TH

Phak namผักหนาม

VN

Choc gai, Mop

Chóc gai, Móp

JP

Mizu-yatsude

ミズヤツデ

LA
KH

Remarks

Distribution: India, South China, Southeast Asia.
Life form: Perennial herb. It grows in shade near river banks
or ponds.

Feb.2010 Pakse, Laos

Use: Well boiled or pickled, young leaves and flowers are eaten for garnish.
The stalk is used for cough medicine and decoction is used for the itchiness associated with skindisease. Raw leaves and leaf stalks contains hydrocyanic acid and calcium oxalate.
Ref. No.: 7, 23, 42, 49,
Order: Alismatales

Wolffia globosa

Family: Araceae

LA

Pham

ພ
ໍ້ າ

KH

Chor bai teaេឈីបាយទា

TH

Pham, Khai nae, Khai namผํา, ไข่น้ าํ

VN

Beo phanBèo phấn

JP

Mijinko-ukikusa

ミジンコウキクサ

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from warm temperate to tropicaleastern Asia. It was introduced over Africa and America.
Life form: Floating plant. A single body is ellipsoid, 0.4～

Nov. 2011

Vientiane province, Laos

0.8 mm long. It is rootless. Grows in clumps on the water
surface.
Use: Eaten as an ingredient of fish or chicken soup.
Raw plants contain 100g, energy 8kcal, 59 mg of calcium, 25 mg of phosphorus, and 6.6 mg of iron.
General info.: This species is the smallest seed plant in the world.
Ref. No.: 7, 14, 20, 49

310

Order: Alismatales

Ottelia alismoides

Family: Hydrocharitaceae

Houm hap°ñ¡¹º´Á»®

KH

Slap changwa

សា្លប្រចវា

TH

Santawa, Bai pai, Hoump สันตะวาhep

VN

Ma de nuocMã đề nướcJP

Mizu-Oobako

ミズオオバコLA

Remarks

Distribution: From northeastern Africa to tropical
Australia, through India, China, Japan and Southeast
Asia.
Life form: Submerged plant. Leaves broadly ovate.

Nov. 2008 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Flower blooms above the water surface.
Use: Petioles and leaves are eaten as a vegetable withexcellent flavor. The fruit is also edible. Even though it isseldom seen at the local market, it is used by villagers
regularly.
Medicinally used for treatment of hemorrhoids and used
as a poultice for fever.
Ref. No.: 7, 14, 18, 47

Nov. 2008 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Dioscorea spp. (D. alata / D. bulbifera / D . esculenta)
LA
KH
TH

Order: Dioscoreales
Family: Dioscoreaceae

Mam pao / Ee moo / Ka thart ចាពលូ
Damloong chhiem moen / ដឡូងឈាមមាន់,ដឡូងភ្លុក /Dehs prei / Damloo chhvie េលៀប,លា្វ្រសុក,លា្វធំ
prei
Man sao / Wan phra chim / มันเสา / มันมือเสื อ
Man mue suea

VN

Khoai ngot

JP

Ooyamaimo,
TogeimoKhoa ngọt
Mukagoimo, オオヤマイモ / ムカゴイモ /トゲイモ

Remarks

Distribution: Originated in the Far East.

Nov. 2011 Vang Vieng, Laos

Life form: Perennial climber.

Use: Tubers are used as a starch food. Broods formed on the side of leaf are also edible.
General info.: This group of plant is called Yam. Along with Taro, Yam was an important staple foodof the ancient agricultural culture in the Far East. It is still found in local and city markets.
Occasionally in the countryside it meets with a semi-domestic Yam species.
Ref. No.: 4, 18, 36, 38, 42, 45, 47
311

Order: Arecales

Borassus flabellifer

Family: ArecaceaeLA

Ton taan , Mak taoªí−ª¾− (Ï¾¡ªÈ¾¸)

KH

T'naotេតា្នត

TH

Tan

ตาล

VN

Thot notThốt nốt

JP

Ougi-yashi

オウギヤシ

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from Africa. It was introduced to
Asia as useful plant in prehistoric age.

Jul. 2011 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Life form: 25-40m tall palm.

Use: The edible fruits are much appreciated in cakes or jellies. Palm wine and palm sugar are madefrom the sap of inflorescence.
There are many known traditional medicinal uses for every part of the toddy palm.

Leaves areused to make marketable products such as hats, mats, roof covers, and writing paper. Canoes may
be made out of trunks. Bark is used to make strong rope.
Ref. No.: 10, 14, 27, 38, 42, 45, 46, 47

Endosperm

Jul. 2011 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Palm sugar

Jul. 2011 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Feb. 2010 Thakhek, Laos

Tapping

312

Jan. 2013 Salavan, Laos

Order: Arecales

Calamus tenuis
LA

Family: Arecaceae

Naw yae່ໍ ແຍໜMay dan, May manhMây đan, Mây manh

KH
TH
VN
JP
Remarks

Life form: A rattan.
Use: A peeled stem is cooked.

Jul. 2008 Vientiane Capital, Laos

Ref. No.: 12

Order: Arecales

Rhapis cochinchinensis

Family: Arecaceae

ÎÒ¦¾−

LA

Naw sanKH

T'naot

TH

Chang

จัง๋

VN

Mat catMật cật

JP
Remarks

Life form: A rattan. Stems to 42 m tall, to 65 cm in diam.
Leaves palmate.
Use: The top of young shoot are edible.

Feb. 2010 Thakhek, Laos

Ref. No.: 12, 48

313

Order: Poales

Bamboo shoot

Family: Poaceae

LA

Naw maiÎÒÄ´ÉÄìÈ

KH

Russeyឬស្សីTH

Naw mai

VN

Tre

Tre

JP

Takenoko

タケノコ

Remarks

Distribution: From tropical to temperate Asia.
Life form: Bamboo plant. Stems are fascicled. 10-30m tall.
Usually planted beside a village.
Jul. 2011 Pakse, Laos

Use: Young shoot is commonly eaten in East and Southeast Asia. There are many bamboo
ingredients in local markets. In Indochina genus Indocalamus and Yushania were seen but

Bambusa predominates the region. Bamboo shoots are boiled and cooked. Yanan (Tiliacora
triandra, Menispermaceae) is used for cooking in Laos and Thailand, Ngop (Sauropus androgynus,
Phyllanthaceae ) is used in Cambodia. In Japan there are many recipes for bamboo and the ricebran is used for boiling.
Ref. No.: 7, 12, 16, 27, 42

Bambusa sp.

Jul. 2011 Ratanakiri, Cambodia

Jul. 2011 Kratie, Cambodia

Knaing russey Feb. 2010 Kratie, Cambodia

Naw Mai Soto

314

Nov. 2011 Vang Vieng, Laos

Order: Poales

Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen
LA

Deuay

KH

Skuey

TH

Dueai

เดือย

VN

Bobo nep, Ydi nep

Bobo nếp, Ýdĩ nếpJP

Hato-mugi

ハトムギ

Family: Poaceae

ໝາກເດ
ື ອຍ

Remarks

Distribution: The origin is unknown. Indigenous tosouthern and eastern Asia.
Life form: Perennial grass. Up to 3 m tall.

Sep. 2009 Houayxay, Laos

General info.: The form with soft-shelled false fruit has been cultivated since ancient times 3000-4000 years ago in India and 2000 years ago in China. It was very important before maize andrice. Forms with hard-shelled false fruit are also occasionally cultivated. Plants escaped from
cultivation occur as weeds. Boiled Jobi was sold in northern Laos.
Ref. No.: 25, 35, 46, 47

Order: Poales

Oryza sativa

Family: Poaceae

LA

Khao kamÀ¢í¾¡Ô

KH

Sraw ngai

្រសូវ

TH

Khao

ข้าว

VN

Lua nuoc, Lua gao

Lúa nước, lúa gạo

JP

Ine

イネ

Remarks

Distribution:

Originated

from

east

foothillsofHimalayas.

theSep. 2009 Houayxay, Laos

Life form: Annual and perennial herb. 50-130 cm tall.
General info.: First cultivated in the middle and lower Yantze River 9000 years ago. This plant is astaple in East and Southeast Asia diets. The photo above is an example of young upland rice sold in
northern Laos. Precooked rice is made from young rice (grains still attached not dropped); this is avery old and time-honored way to prepare rice.
Ref. No.: 36, 40, 47

315

Eleocharis dulcis var. tuberose
LA

Heo

KH

Mem plong khtim

TH

Haeo chinแห้วจีน

VN

Nang ngotNăng ngọt

JP

Shina-kuroguwai

シナクログワイOrder: Poales
Family: Cyperaceae

Remarks

Distribution: The actual distribution is uncertain.
Cultivated in the Old tropics from Africa to Papua.
Life form: Perennial herb. Emergent plant. Grows on

Nov. 2011 Vientiane province, Laosmarshy or flooded ground. 40-80cm tall.
General info.: The tuber, know as "water chestnut", is eaten. Commonly cultivated. Japanese may
have mistaken similar tuber of Sagittaria trifolia 'Caerulea' of Alismataceae.
Ref. No.: 14, 15, 48

Order: Commelinales

Eichhornia crassipes

Family: PontederiaceaeLA

Tob sava, Tob porng©º¡°ñ¡ªö®

KH

Kom plau, Kon plaokកំេបា្លក

TH

Tob chawa, Tob pongผักตบชวา

VN

Luc binhLục bình

JP

Hotei-aoi

ホテイアオイRemarks

Distribution: Native to Brazil, introduced and naturalized
all over the tropics.
Life form: Perennial herb. Free floating plant or emergent
plant rooted in mud. 30-60 cm tall.

Nov. 2011

Vientiane province, Laos

Use: Boiled young shoots and young flowers are eaten with fermented fish or shrimp paste.
In the traditional medicine of Thailand, stems are used as an antidote for poison and to degas the
belly.
Flower’s primary use is ornamental. Stems of the emergent type are used to make baskets in avillage beside Lake Tonle Sap in Cambodia. In Thailand, E. hygrophilus called "Makok nam" ismore popular than this species.
General info.: One of the 100 of the world's worst invasive alien species of IUCN.
Ref. No.: 6, 14, 18, 27, 47

316

Order: Commelinales

Monochoria hastate

Family: Pontederiaceae

LA

Tob

°ñ¡ªö®

KH

Dong veik្រតេកៀត

TH

Phak top thaiผักตบไทย

VN

Rau mac thonRau mác thonJP
Remarks

Distribution: Native in tropical South and Southeast Asia
extending to northern Australia.

Jan. 2009 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Life form: Emergent plant. 50-200 cm tall.
Leaves triangular.
Use: Leaves and young flowers are eaten.

General info.: In the traditional medicine, the sap of leaves was used for suppressing a swelling of
the gum.
Ref. No.: 5, 10, 14, 27, 47

Order: Commelinales

Monochoria vaginalis

Family: Pontederiaceae

LA

Iehin

À¹ñ©ºó»ó−

KH

Chrach, Kom plau្រចាច់

TH

Phak khiat, Phak hin namผักเขียด

VN

Rau mac bao, Co luoi vit

Rau mác bao, cỏ lưỡi vịtJP

Ko-nagi

コナギ

Remarks

Distribution: Native in South Asia, throughout Southeast
Asia, extending also to China, Japan, Fiji islands andnorthern Australia. America and Europe.
Life form: Annual herb. Emergent plant. 5-50 cm tall.

Jun. 2007 Prek Toal Area, Cambodia

Use: Young stems are eaten raw or boiled with fermented fish or shrimp paste. It is an ingredient ofsoup, Lap, and Salad.
General info.: In the traditional medicine of Thailand, the whole plant is used for high fever,asthma, bloody urine, conjunctivitis, etc. The dried leaf is used as powder and to cover swelling.
Ref. No.: 5, 10, 14, 18, 20, 27, 29, 47

317

Order: Zingiberales
Family: Zingiberaceae

Alpinia galangal
LA

Khaa

¹ö¸-¢È¾

KH

Rum deng

រំេដង

TH

Kha pa, Kha luangข่าป่ า, ข่าหลวง

VN

Rieng nepRiềng nếpJP

Nankyou

ナンキョウ

Remarks

Distribution: The exact origin is unknown. It is cultivatedfrom Southeast Asia to India.

Jun. 2011 Pakse, Laos

Life form: Perennial herb. Up to 3.5 m tall.
Use: Rhizome is used for the spice as must-have in thisregion. A pungent condiment with a sweet flavor. Usuallyplanted in home gardens.
General info.: As a medicine, rhizome is prescribed for
diarrhea,

nausea,abdominal

fullness,parasitic

extermination, etc.
There are many hybrids with A. conchigera in Thailand.
The lower photo is an example of pure A. galanga.

Jun. 2011 Pakse, Laos

Ref. No.: 21, 27, 42, 45, 47, 48, 51
Order: Zingiberales

Amomum sp.
LAFamily: Zingiberaceae

Kouk

KH
TH
VN
JP

Myoga-modoki

ミョウガモドキ

Remarks

Life form: Perennial herb. Up to 3 m tall.
General info.: The fruits are eaten raw, cooked or
candied. The fresh, sweet, juicy aril around ripe seeds is
considered a delicacy. Young shoots, young inflorescences
and young fruits are eaten as vegetables cooked withrice.
It is rarely found in local market.
Ref. No.: 40, 47, 48

318

Sep. 2011, Phiang, Sainyabuli, Laos

Order: Zingiberales

Boesenbergia rotunda
LA

Ka sai

KH

KhchieyTH

Kra chaiกระชายVN

Cam dia ta

Cam địa ta

JP

Kurachai

クラチャーイFamily: Zingiberaceae

Remarks

Distribution: Native to Java and Sumatra. It is widely
cultivated in Southeast Asia and Southern China.
Life form: Perennial herb. 30-80cm tall.

Jul. 2011 Pakse, Laos

Use: Boesenbergia rotunda is principally used as a spice and a medicine. Enlarged roots that budfrom rhizome are used. Usually it is used with fish. They are quite pungent and flavorful.
Ref. No.: 27, 42, 47

Order: Zingiberales

Curcuma longa

Family: ZingiberaceaeLA

Kha min, Kha min kheun,
Kha min xan

KH

Romiet ou lmiet

THKhamin, Khamin chanขมิ้น, ขมิ้นชัน

VN

Nghe

Nghệ

JP

Ukon

ウコン

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from probably India. Cultivated in
the tropics.

Jul. 2011 Kratie, Cambodia

Life form: Perennial. 1-1.5 m tall.
Use: Turmeric powder is made from rhizomes. Young shoots are eaten.
Rhizomes have a lot of medicinal usage. For example, stomachic, stimulant, carminative, diarrhoea,
rheumatism, cough, and tuberculosis. Turmeric also has insecticidal, fungicidal and nematicidal
properties which make it a potential biocide.
The yellow powder is used by Cambodian women, in the countryside especially, to coat their faceand body and have beautiful skin. The paint is used to dye fabrics, in particular the clothes ofmonks.
Ref. No.: 27, 42, 45, 47
319

Order: Zingiberales

Curcuma sp.

Family: Zingiberaceae

LA

Kachieng dang，Kachiengkhao©º¡¡½¥È¼¸Á©¤KH

Lum dein proiរំេដងៃ្រព

TH

Kachieng dang

VN
JP
Remarks

Distribution: This genus distribute from China to Malesia

region.
Life form: Perennial herb. Up to 0.5 -1m tall. The white orJul. 2008

Vientiane province, Laos

red color parts are bracts. Pale yellow flower is inside of thegreen bract. See the lower photo.
General info.: Young inflorescences have good flavor that is a

bit strong. Young shoots are eaten raw with papaya salad.
Tubers, young shoots, and flowers have medicinal effect for
extracting the gas of the belly.
Ref. No.: 5, 18
Nov. 2008

Order: Zingiberales

Etlingera elatior

Family: Zingiberaceae

Ton khaຕ່ າົ ້ ນຂ

TH

Dala, Carlar

ดาหลา

VN

Da loc, Sen thaiĐa lộc, Sen thái

JP

Torch-jinger

トーチジンジャーLA

Siem Reap, Cambodia

KH

Remarks

Distribution: Natural distribution in Malaysia, Java andSumatra, but is also widely cultivated in tropical region.
Life form: Perennial, tillering herbs with a rhizome at ornear the ground surface. Leafy stem up to 5 m tall. Flower isJan. 2009 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

red, 0.5-2.5 m tall.
Use: Boiled young flowers and shoots are eaten with fermented fish paste, used for an ingredientof curries, and for Thai spicy salad. It is not so popular in Lao and Cambodian markets.
Ref. No.: 6, 18, 45320

Order: Zingiberales

Kaempferia sp.

Family: Zingiberaceae

LA

Toupmoub

KH

Swaa

TH

Pro

VN

Thieng liengThiềng Liềng

JP

Ban-ukon

バンウコンの仲間េ្របាះសា្វ

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from India. It is widespread totropical Asia and Malesia.
Life form: Perennial herb. Leaves usually 2-3 sheaths, blade

Jun. 2011 Meuang Mai, Laosoften horizontal and appressed on the ground, broadly
elliptical or suborbicular, 6-15 cm x 5-10 cm.
Use: Leaves are eaten in raw with “Cheo” in Attapu Laos.
Fresh leaves are light texture and have a slight ginger
flavor. It is cooked with bamboo shoot. Popular in thehighland in southern Laos and northern Cambodia.
Ref. No.: 27, 42, 45, 46, 47, 48

Cambodian Kaempferia,
Photo H.Kashiwadani

321

Order: Zingiberales

Zingiber officinale

Family: Zingiberaceae

LA

Khin

©º¡¢ú¾®É¾−

KH

Knyay

ខ្ងី

TH

Khing

ขิง

VN

Gung

Gừng

JP

Shougaショウガ

Remarks

Distribution: Wild forms of ginger have not been foundand its origin is uncertain. Ginger has been grown intropical Asia since ancient times.

Jun. 2011 Pakse, Laos

Life form: Perennial herb. 50-100cm tall.

Use: Rhizomes are used for a lot of dishes as a spice. Young flower buds are eaten raw. There are redflower buds and green buds of Z. officinale in local markets. Commonly, it is planted in the homegarden of each house.
General info.: Rhizomes have been used as medicine since B.C.. Gingerol, which is an extract of a
raw rhizomes, controls liver problems. Shogaol, which is an extract from dried rhizomes, has
painkilling, antitussive, and alleviation-of-fever effect.
Ref. No.: 18, 27, 40,42, 48

Z. officinale Sep. 2009 Vientiane province, Laos

Zingiber sp.
Sep. 2009

Z. officinale Jul. 2011 Pakse, Laos

Z. montanum

322

Vientiane province, Laos

Jul.2011

Pakse, Laos

Order: Zingiberales

Musa sp.

Family: Musaceae

LA

Kuay

KH

Chyeak

TH

Kuay

VN

Chuoi

Chuối

JP

Bananaバナナ

េចកRemarks

Distribution: Tropical Asia and Malesia are considered
the center for Banana.
Life form: Perennial herb. Up to 5m tall. A pseudo stem
is formed by overlapped and rolled leaf sheath.

Jul. 2010 Phnom Penh , Cambodia

Use: Fruits are "Banana" as we all know. Sliced reddish flower bracts and inside pseudo stems arealso used as a garnish.
Ref. No.: 18, 47

Jul. 2010 Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia

Aug. 2013 Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Jul. 2010 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Aug. 2013 Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam323

Order: Ranunculales

Cyclea barbata
LA

Family: Menispermaceae

Ni ma noy

KH

.

TH

Ma noi, Khruea ma noi

VN

Day sam, Sam long

Dây sâm, sâm lông

JP
Remarks

Distribution: From India to Indochina, Sunda and Java.
Life form: Woody climber. Up to 5 m.
Use: A leaf and a thin vine are used in order to make aJul. 2010 Pakse, Laos

grass jelly.

General info.: A decoction made of the roots is used in local medicine against fever, stomatitis andliver disease.
Ref. No.: 7, 14, 47

Order: Ranunculales

Tiliacora triandra
LA

YanangFamily: MenispermaceaeÃ®μ¾−¾¤

KH.

TH

Thao yanang, Choi nang, เถาย่านาง
Thao wan khieo

VN

Day xanhDây xanhJP
Remarks

Distribution: Assam, South Burma, Cambodia, Laos,
Vietnam and Malay peninsula.

Sep. 2009 Houayxay, Laos

Life form: Climber. Common in forest edges and open bush.
Use: Crushed leaves and thin vines are used to coax out flavor. It is an essential kitchen ingredientwhen cooking bamboo shoot in Laos and Thailand.
General info.: In the traditional medicine of Thailand, the shoot is used as an antifebrile andleaves are used as a medicine to discharge toxins. In Cambodia, a shoot is used for the
preparation of a medicine for dysentery.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 18, 40, 42324

Order: Proteales

Nelumbo nucifera

Family: Nelumbonaceae

LABoua, Boua louang

Ï¾¡®ö¸

KH

Chouk, Chuok sow

ឈូក

TH

Boua louangบัวหลวง

VN

Sen

Sen

JP

Hasu

ハス

Remarks

Distribution: Asia, Europe, and Australia.
Life form: Perennial herb. Emergent plant. Leaf is 0.5-1m
tall above the water face, circular, 25-90cm diameter, leaf

Jul. 2010 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

stem attached on the center of leaf. Flower is taller thanleaf,
10–23 cm in diameter, color white to pink.
Use: Thin young rhizomes are popular ingredients in Indochina. It is used as an ingredient in soup,boiled with coconuts milk, and fried with other vegetables. The texture of the young rhizome islight. Young seeds are eaten raw for a snack.
All parts of the N. nucifera are used for medicine. Alkaloid is included in the leaf, stamen, fruits,
and seed. Rhizome and seed are effective against throat ulcers and skin disease.
Ref. No.: 5, 10, 18, 27, 29, 38, 48

Sep. 2009 Vientiane province, LaosFeb. 2010

Jun. 2007 Chong Khnies, Cambodia

Thakhek, Laos

Jul. 2010 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

325

Order: Vitales

Cissus hastate

Family: Vitaceae¦í´ìö´LASom loum

KH

Sannda (as C. repens)

TH

Som sandan, Som op ep,ส้มสันดาน

VN

Ho dang mui giaoHồ đằng mũi giáo

JP
Remarks

Distribution: From India to the east coast of Australia
Jul. 2008

through Indochina, Thailand and Southeast Asia.

Vientiane province, Laos

Life form: Evergreen climber. Family of grape.
Use: Leaves are used as a sour taste ingredient. It is used for mushroom soup. In Thailand, leaf,
stem, and fruit are used for coughs, as an expectorant, and as an anti-emetic. The powder of a root
is applied to swelling. In Cambodia, young leaves and fruits of C. repens are used for same
purpose as C. hastata.
Ref. No.: 7, 27, 47

Order: Celastrales

Salacia chinensis
LA

Family: CelastraceaeÃ®ª¾Ä¡È

Takai

KH
TH

Kam phaeng chet chan, Ta กําแพงเจ็ดชัน
้
kai

VN

Chop mau Trung Quoc

Chóp mau Trung QuốcJP
Remarks

Distribution:

Scatteredfrom

tropical

Africa,Indochina, Malesia and Fiji.

India,
Sep. 2009 Houayxay, Laos

Life form: Liana or shrub. 3-10 m long.
General info.: The photo is of leaves that were put in order with other vegetables at a morningmarket in northern Laos. According to PROSEA, fruits are eaten. The roots are astringent. In thePhilippines a decoction from the roots is used against amenorrhoea and is supposed to cause
abortion.
Ref. No.: 12, 15, 47, 48

326

Order: Oxalidales

Connarus cochinchinensis
LA

Soapsap°ñ¡§º®Á§®

KH

Lumpuehs, Smachលំ ពស់

TH

Thopthaep, Ma woถอบแถบ

VN

Lop bopLốp bốp

Family: Connaraceae

JP
Remarks

Distribution: South Laos, Cambodia, South Vietnam to
Northern Malay Peninsula.

Jul. 2008 Vientiane province, Laos

Life form: Climber or small tree.
Use: Young leaves are used as vegetable. The bark can be chewed with the betel.
General info.: C. bariensis and C. semidecandrrus have the same local name in Laos. These are notseen in a market.
Ref. No.: 12, 14, 27

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Irvingiaceae

Irvingia malayana
Ï¾¡®ö¡

LA

Mak bok

KH

Cham bakTH

Krabokกระบก

VN

Ko-niaKơ-niaJP
Remarks

Distribution: FromIndochina to Peninsula Malaysia,
Borneo, and Sumatra.
Life form: Evergreen tree. 10-30 m tall in Indochina.

Sep. 2009 Vientiane province, Laos

Use: The seeds are roasted and their inner part served as a snack.
Seeds are used for the manufacturing of wax, cocoa and soap.
Ref. No.: 10, 14, 27, 45327

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Hypericaceae

Cratoxylum cochinchinense
LA

Phak tao

KH

Lngieng tuk

TH

Tio kliangติ้วเกลี้ยง

VN

Thanh nganh nam

Thành ngạnh nam

JPOhaguro-no-ki

オハグロノキRemarks

Distribution: From Indochina to Peninsular Malaysia,
Borneo, Sumatra, and Palawan.

Jun. 2011 Parkse, Laos

Life form: Deciduous small tree.

Use: Acid young leaves are appreciated as vegetables, eaten raw with rap in Laos, and for "samla"
in Cambodia. A tree that has grown on a common is used. It makes good firewood.
Ref. No.: 16, 27, 45, 46

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Hypericaceae

Cratoxylum formosum
LA

Tiew

°ñ¡¡½ª…¸, Ã®ª…¸,°ñ¡ª…¸

KH

Lngiengេល្ងៀង

TH

Tio khaoติ้วขาว

VN

Thanh nganh dep, Do ngon

Thành ngạnh đẹp, Đỏ ngọnJP
Remarks

Distribution: MyanmarIndochina, Thailand, Malaysia,
Indonesia, Philippines, and southern China.
Life form: Deciduous small tree. Up to 3–6 m tall..
Feb. 2010

Savannakhet, Laos

Use: Young leaves and young flowers are eaten raw with Laap and used in fish curries, giving afragrant and sour tannin-like taste.
Dried Leaves, bark and roots are consumed as a tea and have medicinal properties. In traditional
medicine, resin from the bark is used to scrub the soles of feet with dry and broken skin.
The wood is good for making charcoal.
General info.: This tree that has grown on a common of village is used. In Laos, C. f. subsp.

prunifloorum called "Tiew daen" is similarly-used as this species.
Ref. No.: 7, 12, 21, 22, 23, 27, 45, 48, 49

328

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Phyllanthaceae

Antidesma ghaesembilla
LA

Hmauz nooyz

KH

Dangkiep k'dam

TH

Mao-khaipla,
Maothung

VN

Choi moi, Chua moiតេង្កៀបកា្តម
Mangmao,Chòi mòi, Chua mòi

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Tropical Africa, India, southern China,
Southeast Asia and Australia.

Jul. 2013 Kampong Chhunang, Cambodia

Life form: Deciduous small tree.
Use: Sour fruits are eaten raw and prepared into jams.
Stems are used as construction material.
Ref. No.: 27, 45

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Phyllanthaceae

Phyllanthus acidusLAYomÏ¾¡¨ö´

KH

Kantotកន្ទួត

TH

Mayom

มะยม

VN

Chum ruot, Tam ruotChùm ruột, Tầm ruộtJP

Amedama-no-ki

アメダマノキRemarks

Distribution: Probably native to coastal Brazil. Cultivated intropical Asia and Polynesia islands since immemorial times.
Life form: Small tree, up to 10 m. Fruits grow on a trunk.

Feb. 2010 Pakse, Laos

Use: Sour ripe fruit is edible. Leaves are eaten as a salad. Since ancient times, the latex, root, bark,leaf, and fruit of this plant are used to make various medicines.
Ref. No.: 14, 16, 27, 42, 47

329

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Phyllanthaceae

Phyllanthus emblica
LA

KhampomÏ¾¡¢¾´¯Éº´

KHKantout prayកន្ទួតៃ្រព

TH

Ma kham pomมะขามป้ อม

VN

Chum ruot nui, Me rungMalakkanoki, Anmala,YukanChùm ruột núi, Me rừngマラッカノキ、アンマラ、ユカン

JPRemarks

Distribution: India to Southeast Asia and Malesia.
Life form: Tree. Up to 20 m tall. Small linear-oblong single
leaves are alternate and densely crowd along the branch.

Sep. 2009

Vientiane province, Laos

A shoot looks like a compound leaf.
Use: Sour ripe fruit is edible. Used for the sour ingredient of dishes. It is rich in vitamin C andapplied for expectorant. Roots, leaves, bark, and insect galls are used for the making of many
medicines. The decoction of roots is used against fever. Tannin is extracted from the bark. Woods
are used for furniture construction and as firewood.
Ref. No.: 14, 26, 27, 37, 42, 47
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Phyllanthaceae

Sauropus androgynusLA

Wan ban

KH

Ngup

ងប់

TH

Wan ban, Kan tongผักหวานบ้าน

VN

Bo ngot, Bu ngot

Bồ ngót, Bù ngót

JP

Amameshiba

アマメシバ

Remarks

Distribution: From India to Indochina and Malesia.
Life form: Shrub or small tree. Up to 4 m tall.
Jul. 2010 Stung Treng, Cambodia

Use: Leaves are used for cooking as vegetable. It is a popular ingredient of fried vegetable, soup,
and curry. In Cambodia, bamboo shoots are boiled and they are essential kitchen ingredient . Fruits
are edible. Jam can also be made.
In traditional medicine, leaves are used as a medicine against coughs. It is used to soothe the lungs,
as a tonic, and as a febrifugal to relieve internal fever.
General info.: It is planted in most home gardens.
Ref. No.: 14, 18, 27, 42330

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Euphorbiaceae

Codiaeum variegatum
Ngeun, KhamÃ®À¤ò−Ã®£¿TH

Koson, Ko ton, Kri krasom

โกสน

VN

Co tongCô tòngJP

Henyouboku, Kuroton

ヘンヨウボク、クロトン

LA
KH

Remarks

Distribution: Malesia and the West Pacific Island arcs up to
Fiji.

Sep. 2009 Chiang Rai Thailand

Life form: Shrub, up to 3 m high. Cultivated for the showy
leaves, there is extreme variations among the various races.
General info.: Primarily an ornamental plant, for its variegated leaves, with a variety of races.
Information as foods is not mentioned in the Flora of Thailand. Nevertheless, it was assured that
this species had been sold as a vegetable at one market in north Thailand.
Ref. No.: 14, 46
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Euphorbiaceae

Manihot esculenta
LA

Manton´ñ−ªí−

KH

T`ngangថ្ងាន់

TH

Man sampalangมันสําปะหลัง

VN

Khoai mi, San

Khoai mì, SắnJP

Kyassaba

キャッサバ

Remarks

Distribution: Cultivation and found throughout SE Asia
and Malesia.
Sep. 2007

Vientiane province, Laos

Life form: Shrub. Up to 7 m high. Leaf blade palmately 3-9-lobed, diameter 20cm wide.
Use: Tapioca is made from cassava. The roots are eaten cooked, steamed, fried or roasted whenfresh or after drying or fermenting. The leaves and young flowers are also eaten, they containreasonable amounts of carotene and vitamin C, though they too have to be cut in pieces and they
have to be cooked to rid the HCN.
General info.: The roots constitute one of the world's most important stock crops for starch. It is also
an important emergency crop. There are two types of Cassava; a sweet one and bitter one. Only
sweet cassava can be eaten fresh in small quantities (the peel contains the most HCN). The bitterones have to be treated due to a much higher HCN content.
Ref. No.: 14, 42, 48
331

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Passifloraceae

Passiflora foetida
LA

Baung, Yoth mak noth°ñ¡ບ້ ວ¤, ຍອດໝາກນ
໋ ອດ

KH

Sau mau prayសាវមា៉វ

TH

Ka thok rok, Rokกะทกรก

VN

Nhan long, Lac tienNhãn lòng, Lạc tiênJP

Kusa-tokeisou

クサトケイソウ

Remarks

Distribution: Cultivated and often naturalized in most
tropical countries.

Jul. 2010 Stung Treng, Cambodia

Life form: Perennial climbing herb. Usually grows wild
on a common and wayside of village.
Use: Young leaves are cooked. It is popular in local market inIndochina.
The ripe fruits are eaten raw. They are sweet and juicy.
Ref. No.: 42, 46, 47

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Pandaceae

Microdesmis caseariifolia
On taw°ñ¡ºÈº−ªÒTH

Salot pa, Tana tua miaสลอดป่ า

VN

Chanh oc, Chan

Chanh ốc, ChẩnJP

Kurokiibo

クロキイボ

LA
KH

Remarks

Distribution: From South China, Burma and Indochina to
Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo and Philippines.
Life form: Small tree. Up to 10m tall.
General info.: A villager said that this is also eaten in Laos.
Ref. No.: 14, 46, 48

332

Jul. 2008 Vientiane province, Laos

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Clusiaceae

Garcinia cochinchinensis
LA
KH

Sunndangសណ្តាន់

Bua nha, Tai chuaBứa nhà, Tai chua

TH
VN
JP
Remarks

Distribution: Indochina, often cultivated in Cambodia.
Life form: Small tree, 10-15 m tall.
Use: The acid fruits are used as culinary spices. When cut

Jul. 2010 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

and dried in the sun they will keep for a long time. They
are used in cooking as acid element, like a lemon. These
fruits are more popular in Cambodia then they are in Laosor Thailand
Since this tree is the same genus as Mangosteen, aseedling is used as a rootstock of Mangosteen.
Ref. No.: 27, 47
Jul. 2011 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Clusiaceae

Garcinia oliveri
LA

Mohng

KH

Tamoung

TH

Mohng

VN

Bua nui្រទមូង
Bứa núi

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Indochina, often cultivated in Cambodia.
Life form: Tree, 20-30 m tall.

Jul. 2010 Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia

Use: Leaves are used as sour condiments. The fruit cut in slices can be kept in salt.
Popular in Cambodia and less so in Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam.
In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, bark is a component of a remedy against bronchitis. In
ground form, it can be used to treat a hematoma and to make an anti-inflammatory analgesic
plaster for sprains.
According to recent studies, a substance with an antioxidant action is extracted from the bark.
Ref. No.: 12, 27333

Order: Malpighiales
Family: Salicaceae

Flacourtia indica
LA

Kane

Ï¾¡ເກ
ັ ນ

KH

Ka khop pray្រកខុបៃ្រព

TH

Ta khop paตะขบป่ า

VN

Hong quan anHồng quân ẤnJP

Indo-lukamu

インドルカムRemarks

Distribution:

1cm
Cultivated in Africa and Asia.

Life form: Deciduous tree. Up to 15 m tall. It has longSep. 2007 Vientiane province, Laosspines on the twig.
Use: The fruit is edible.
In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, the roasted leaves, bark, and fruit were used to make tonic
drinks prescribed to young mothers.
The wood, not affected by termites, is used to make columns for houses, pestles for rice, and axe
handles.
Ref. No.: 27, 46

Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Acacia concinna
LA

Som poy

KH

Bay damnaeb, Banla saotສົ ້ ມປອຍ
្រកទុេំ ថត, ក្ទម្ពេទស

TH

Som poiส้มป่ อยVN

Keo dep, Phi tao giap

Keo đẹp, Phì tạo giáp

JP

Okinawa-nemu

オキナワネムRemarks

Distribution: Tropical Asia
Life form: Woody climber.

Feb. 2010 Louang Phrabang, Laos

Use: Young leaves are sour and eaten in salad.
In traditional medical treatment, the fruit is used; externally for eczema or leprosy and internallyas a laxative. The seed has a medical reputation for providing a comfort effect during birth process.
Fruit is used for washing hair.
Ref. No.: 27, 46

334

Acacia pennata subsp. Insuavis
LA

Kha

°ñ¡¢½

KH

S'am, Thama toeb

ស្អំ

TH

Cha omชะอม

VN

Keo kerr

Keo Kerr

JP

Chaom

チャオーム

Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Remarks

Distribution: Introduced and cultivated to Southeast Asia.
Jul. 2010 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Life form: Woody climber or shrub up to 5 m tall. Found in open, scrubby forest or swampy forest
and along streams.
Use: Boiled or steamed young leaves are eaten with fermented fish paste, with Laap, and soup. The
bark is used as a condiment.
Vitamin A, B1, B2, C, and Niacin are contained in new leaves. In the traditional medicine ofThailand, bark is used as a parasiticide. In Cambodia, seeds are used to treat diarrhea, dysentery,and hemorrhoids. It is long held belief that the oil yielded from seeds is a remedy for leprosy.
Ref. No.: 5, 23, 27, 51

Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Bauhinia variegate©º¡®É¾−

LA

Ban

KH

Cheng kooTH

Siao dok khaoเสี้ ยวดอกขาว

VN

Mong bo soc

Móng bò sọc

JPSoshinka

ソシンカ

Remarks

Distribution: Southeast Asia.
Life form: Shrub or small tree. The leaf shape is likeFeb. 2010 Louang Phrabang, Laosa butterfly with two lobes and veins radiating from the base of the leaf.
Use: The flowers are edible when fried. Young leaves, buds, and fruits are also edible.
In local medicine, the bark is used to cure wounds. A decoction of any part of the plants is taken
against dysentery. It is planted on the roadside or in a garden as an ornamental plant.
Ref. No.: 27, 42, 45, 46335

Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Caesalpinia mimosoides
Nam panya

ຜັກນ
ໍ້ າ

TH

Puya, Nam puyaผักปู่ ย่า, หนามปู่ ย่า

VN

Diep trinh nu, Moc meoĐiệp trinh nữ, Móc mèo

LA
KH

JP
Remarks

Distribution: From India to China and Indochina.
Life form: Woody climber. Branchlets densely ferruginous
glandular hairy, with curved prickles.

Jun. 2011 Pakse, Laos

Use: Young shoots are eaten with soup and bamboo dishes. This is popular in the local markets of
Laos.
In traditional medicine this plant is used as a medicine for blood and dizziness.
Ref. No.: 7, 48

Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Delonix regia
LA

Hang nok yung, PangÏ¾¡¹¾¤−ö¡¨÷¤ Íõ Ï¾¡Á¯¤

KH

Kroap chukrot,
Kngaok barangឈូករត្ន

TH

Hang nok yung farangหางนกยูงฝรั่ง

VN

Phuong vi, Diep tayPhượng vĩ, Điệp tây

JPHouou-boku

ホウオウボク

Remarks

Distribution: Originating from Madagascar. Planted asstreet or garden tree in the tropics.
Life form: Tree. 10-20m tall.

Feb. 2010 Louang Phrabang, Laos

Use: In Laos, seeds are eaten as a snack. In Cambodia, the young leaves are sometimes consumed
as vegetables.
It is supposed that the young leaves are effective against rheumatism.
Ref. No.: 27336

Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Leucaena leucocephalaLA

KathinÃ®¡½ê†−

KH

Kanthom thead្រកធំេថត, ក្ទុមេទស

TH

Kathin, Krathinกระถิน

VN

Keo Binh linh, Keo giau, Bo Keo Bình Linh, Keo giậu, Bọ

JP

chet

chét

Gingoukan, Gin-nemu

ギンゴウカン、ギンネム

Remarks

Distribution: Native to tropical Central

America.

Life form: Small tree to 4-8m tall. Often occupying the

Sep. 2009

Vientiane province, Laos

common and roadside of a village.
Use: The young leaves are eaten as salad with fermented fish paste or laap. Young fruits, green
seeds are also eaten.
General info.: Poisonous amino acid called Mimosine is contained in this plant. There are reports ofdepilation and poisoning of people and livestock.
One of the 100 world's worst invasive Alien Species of IUCN.
Ref. No.: 6, 10, 16, 18, 27, 45, 46, 47
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Neptunia oleracea
LA

Kaseth°ñ¡¡½À¦©

KH

Kanh chaetកែញ្ឆត

TH

Kra chet,
Ruunong

VN

Rau nhuc, Rau rut

Rau nhúc, Rau rút

JP

Mizu-ojigisou

ミズオジギソウ

Kasethnam, ผักกระเฉด

Remarks

Distribution: Widely distributed in the tropics.
Life form: Floating plant rooted on the ground of shore. It
forms the white thick float on the stem. Shoots run on thesurface of water.

Sep. 2007 Siem Reap, Cambodia

Use: Young shoots are removed and the float is eaten with fermented fish or shrimp paste. It is a
popular ingredient in Indochina. It has rich nutrition containing protein, a mineral, and vitamin.
In the traditional medicine of Thailand, sap is used for a throat ulcer and hepatitis, and leaves areprescribed as an anodyne and for fever reduction.
General info.: Plants grown in the village reservoir and canals are self-consume or sold at market.
Leaves are very sensitive to contact stimulation and will immediately close when touched.
Ref. No.: 5, 18, 23, 40, 42, 46, 47
337

Order: Fabales

Senna siamea

Family: Fabaceae°ñ¡¢šÀ¹ùñ¡LA

Kheelak

KH

AngkanhTH

Khi lekขี้เหล็ก

VN

Muong xiem, Muong denMuồng Xiêm, Muồng đen

JPTagayasan

タガヤサン

.

Remarks

Distribution: From India to Indochina, Malesia.
Life form: Tree, Up to 30m tall. It is often planted in thegarden or wayside.

Feb. 2010

Pakse, Laos

Use: In Thailand and Indochina, young fruits and leaves
are eaten as a vegetable. During preparation, the cooking
liquid is replaced three times to remove toxins. Freshleaves and boiled leaves are seen in the local market.
In the traditional medicine of Thailand each part of thetree is used. Bark is used for hemorrhoids; leaves are used
for calculus; flower buds and young leaves are used as alaxative; sapwood is used to treat a throat ulcer; andJul. 2010

Ubon Ratchathani,Thailand

heartwood is used as a medicine for gonorrhea.
Ref. No.: 5, 17, 18, 37, 42, 47, 48

Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Sesbania grandiflora
LA

Khae

©º¡Á£

KH

Ong kie daiអង្គាសដី

TH

Khae banแคบ้าน

VN

So duaSo đũaJP

Shiro-gochou

シロゴチョウRemarks

Distribution: It is considered native to Southeast Asia. It is
widely distributed to the tropics.
Life form: Small tree, 4-10m tall.

Sep. 2009 Lamphun, Thailand

Use: Young flowers are used as a vegetable for salads, curries and soups. It is planted in a homegarden and it doubles as an ornament tree.
Leaves have a medicinal effect against a cold and fever and the bark is used for diarrhea in
traditional medicine. Young leaves and tender pods are used as a fodder.
Ref. No.: 5, 18, 23, 27, 43, 46, 47, 49
338

Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Sesbania javanica
LA

Khae

ດອກແຄ

KH

Snau

េសា្ន

TH

Sano

โสน

VN

Dien dienĐiên điển

.

JP
Remarks

Distribution: From India to Australia through China andSoutheast Asia.

Aug. 2013 Can Tho, Vietnam

Life form: Small tree. 1-5m tall.
Use: Young flowers are used as an ingredient in soup and omelets. It is popular in Cambodia andsouth Vietnam, and also seen in Laos. The yellow color of the flower is carotene. The flower is used
as food color since carotene is stable with heat.
In traditional medicine, leaves are used for swelling, flowers as a medicine of intestine, and roots forthroat ulcers.
Ref. No.: 5, 23, 27, 42, 46, 47, 48, 49
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae

Tamarindus indica
LA

Kham

ªí−Ï¾¡¢¾´

KH

Ampl

អម្ពិល

TH

Kham

มะขาม

VN

Me

Me

JP

Tamarindo

タマリンド

Remarks

Distribution: Indigenous in Africa. Widely cultivated allover the tropics.
Life form: Tree. Up to 20m tall.

Jul. 2010 Pakse Laos

Use: The green fruits and flowers may be used for souring soupy dishes of fish and meat. The ripe
fruit of the sweet type is usually eaten fresh, whereas the fruits of sour types are made into juice,
jam, syrup and candy.
Fruits are used as an antifebrile, a laxative, and an antiscorbutic agent. In traditional medicine
mature leaves are used for dysentery, fruit pulp is used as a laxative, and old seeds are used as aparasiticide for children.
Wood is hard and heavy. It is used for productive materials like a cutting board.
Ref. No.: 5, 15, 18, 37, 45, 47, 49339

Order: Rosales

Artocarpus integer

Family: Moraceae

LA

Mi

KH

Chompa dokចំបា៉ដក់

TH

Champada, Champedakจําปาดะ

VN

Mit to nu

Mít tố nữJP

Koparamitsu

コパラミツ

Remarks

Distribution: From Myanmar to Malesia throughIndochina.

Jul. 2010 Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia

Life form: Tree. Up to 20m tall. It is same genus of Jack fruits.
Use: The fleshy perianths which surround the seeds are eaten fresh or cooked. It is sweet and juicy.
Ref. No.: 42, 46, 47

Order: Rosales

Ficus sp.
LA

Hai

KH

Leap

Family: Moraceae

TH
VN
JP
Remarks

Life form: Tree.
Use: Young leaves are eaten raw with meat.
Ref. No.: 12, 27

Feb. 2010 Pakse, Laos340

Order: Rosales

Ficus sp.
LA

Tour hair

KH

L’vearom, Lvie dai

Family: Moraceae

TH
VN

Va

Vả

JP
Remarks

Life form: Tree.
Use: Fruits are eaten. Some species of Ficus fruits are seen

Feb. 2010 Louang Phrabang, Laosin local markets.
Ref. No.: 12, 27

Order: Rosales

Morus alba

Family: Moraceae

LA

Mom

KH

Mon touch, Mon pooh

TH

Mon

หม่อน

VN

Dau tamDâu tằm

JP

Ymama-guwa

ヤマグワ

Remarks

Distribution: From Afghanistan to China and Japan throughJul. 2010

Himalaya region

Ubon Rachatani Thailand

Life form: Small tree. 3-10m tall.
Use: In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, the leaves are a component of a remedy against the
conjunctivitis or wounds. The barks are used as an astringent.
It is an important sericulture food source.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 48

341

Order: Cucurbitales
Family: Cucurbitaceae

Coccinia grandis
LA
KH

Bah

TH

Tamlueng, Khaepตําลึง

VN

Day batDây bát

JP

Yasai-kalasu-uri

ヤサイカラスウリ

Remarks

Distribution: Widely distributed in the Old World. Fromnorthern tropical Africa to North Australia through India

Jul. 2011 Kratie, Cambodia

and Malesia.
Life form: Climber to 8m long. Fruit is green, grow in rows, and turn bright red when ripe.
Use: Young shoots are eaten as a vegetable. It is used for "samla", liquid dishes in Cambodia.
The plant is used in traditional medicine for scabies and diabetes.
General info.: Popular vegetable in local markets. Usually grown in home gardens and roadside.
Ref. No.: 14, 42

Order: Cucurbitales
Family: Cucurbitaceae

Cucurbita maxima
LAEu, Fak kham

KH

Lpeu

TH

Fak khiao, Fak thong

VN

Bi ro, Bi do

Bí rợ, Bí đỏ

JP

Seiyou-kabocha

セイヨウカボチャ.

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from America. It was introduced allover the world.

Sep. 2012 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Life form: Annual herbaceous climber.
Use: All parts of this species are edible except thick stems and old leaves. In the Indochina region,
flowers and young leaves are a popular ingredient of dishes. Flowers are eaten raw or with soup.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 42, 46, 48

342

Order: Cucurbitales
Family: Cucurbitaceae

Luffa cylindrical
LA

Buab

KH

No noung moulTH

Buap klom, Buap hom

VN

Muop huongMướp hương

JP

Hechima

ヘチマ.

Remarks

Distribution: Originally in south Asia. Widely cultivated.
Life form: Medium-sized climber to 5 m long.

Sep. 2009 Houayxay Laos

Use: Young fruits that appear powdery-white are ready to eat. The photo was taken in Laos,
flowers, young leaves, and young fruit are sold at local market.
Ref. No.: 42

Momordica charantia f. abbreviateSai°ñ¡Ã¦È

KH

Marea

្រមះ

TH

มะระ

VN

Mara, Phakhoei,
Phakhai, Mahoi
Muop dang, Kho qua

JP

Nigauri

ニガウリ

LA

Order: Cucurbitales
Family: CucurbitaceaeMướp đắng, Khổ qua

Remarks

Distribution: The tropics.
Life form: Annual herb. Climber. Up to 5 m long.

Jul. 2008 Keun, Vientiane, Laos

Use: Young leaves and fruits are edible. Boiled young leaves are eaten with fermented fish paste orwith soup for the bitter-tasting ingredient. Fruits are eaten raw, stir-fried, or as pickles.
It is a popular ingredient. They are often grown in village clearings, waysides, and home-gardens.
It contains a chemical compound called Momordicin which cause bitter-taste. Fruits are prescribedfor numerous medicinal uses. In traditional medicine, it is prescribed for diabetes, hepatitis, a knee
pain, etc. A decoction of the root is used for allergy.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 18, 26, 27, 42, 47, 49343

Order: Cucurbitales
Family: Cucurbitaceae

Momordica cochinchinensis
LA

Khao, Kheua, Khai

KH

.

TH

Khao

VN

Gac

Gấc

JP

Namban-karasu-uri

ナンバンカラスウリ

Remarks

Distribution: From India to Malesia through Indochina.
Life form: Deciduous woody climber. It climbs up tall

Sep. 2010 Vientiane province, Laos

trees and fruiting occurs on a high position. It has a tuber in the ground trees. Fruiting on a highposition. It has a tuber in the ground.
Use: Young fruits, new shoots and flowers are used for an ingredient of curry. Young shoots arecooked with shrimp or meat with oyster sauce. This plant is called "Rice vine". It is used to makered rice for celebration. Red ripe pulp and seeds are steamed with sticky rice.
General info.: Since it is rich in lycopene it has antioxidant properties. It is also rich in vitamin A, C,
and alpha-linoleic acid.
Ref. No.: 14, 42, 46, 47, 49

Order: Fagales
Family: Fagaceae

Castanopsis sp.
LA

Kaw

KH

KhaohsTH

MaikouVN

De, Kha thu

Dẽ, Kha thụJPShii-no-mi

シイの実

ໝາກກ
ໍ
.

Remarks

Life form: Tree.
Use: Nuts are eaten raw, boiled or roasted.

Sep. 2009 Vientiane province, Laos

General info.: Some big trees are left behind village.
Ref. No.: 14, 23, 45344

Order: Myrtales
Family: Onagraceae

Ludwigia adscendens
LA

Pouy nam°ñ¡²¸¨−ÕKH

Komping pouyកំពីងពួយស

TH

Phaeng phuai namแพงพวยนํ้า

VN

Rau dua nuoc

Rau dừa nướcJP

Ke-mizu-kinbai

ケミズキンバイ

Remarks

Distribution: Native of continental Asia. Introduced as aweed in tropical Africa.

Sep. 2007

Vientiane province, Laos

Life form: Perennial herb. It roots on shallow bottom land and elongates stem to the water area.
A stem forms a white float. The stem elongates above the water about 20cm, it opens leaves andwhite flowers.
Use: Young shoots are eaten raw with fish sauce. Not found in markets.
In traditional medicine of Cambodia, Leaves are used as a remedy against the diseases of thescalp.
Ref. No.: 10, 27, 46, 47

Order: Myrtales
Family: Combretaceae

Terminalia chebulaLA

Som mor

KH

Sramaสมอไทย

TH

Samo thaiVN

Xang, Tieu (ca lich, chieu lieu Xàng, Tiếu, (cà lich, chiêu
xanh)liêu xanh).

JP

Mirobalan-no-ki

ミロバランノキ

Remarks

Distribution: From the sub-Himalayan region of Nepal andnorthern India to Indochina.
Jul. 2011 Pakse, Laos

Life form: Deciduous tree. Up to 25 m.

Use: The bitter green fruit is eaten raw with roasted fish in Cambodia and eaten raw with Laap in
Laos.
The fruit is rich in tannin. Leather tanned with this fruit is soft. The bark produces a gum.
Ref. No.: 18, 27, 46 , 47345

Order: Myrtales
Family: Myrtaceae

Syzygium antisepticum°ñ¡¦½À´ñ¡

LA

Samek

KH

Poun

TH

Mek, Samet chunเม็ก, เสม็ดชุน

VN

Tram

Trâm

JP
Remarks

Distribution: From India to Malesia through Indochina.
Life form: Tree. Up to 20m tall. This small tree that has
grown on a common is used.

Jul. 2010 Pakse, Laos

Use: Young leaves are eaten with Laap in Laos. After eating with oily meat, mouth feels fresh.
The bark has been used as a black dye.
Ref. No.: 7, 14, 45, 52

Order: Myrtales
Family: Lythraceae

Trapa natans
LA

Chap

Ï¾¡¥ñ®

KH

Krochap្រកចាប់

TH

Ma ngaengมะแง่ง

VN

Au nuocẤu nước

JP

Tou-bishi

トウビシ

Remarks

Distribution: Widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical
Asia.

Sep. 2007 Vientiane province, Laos

Life form: Annual herb. Floating leaved plant. Two horn water chestnut. It grows in theslow-moving rivers, lakes, swamps, ponds.
Use: Fruits are eaten raw or cooked.
In Cambodia the hard pericarp, in infusion, is considered a tonic and febrifuge.
Ref. No.: 12, 27, 42, 46, 48, 52346

Order: Sapindales
Family: Anacardiaceae

Bouea oppositifolia
LA

Phang

ໝາກຜາ¤KH

Mak prangមា៉ក់្របាង

TH

Ma pring, Ma yong chitมะปริ งVN

Thanh tra, Xoai rung

Thanh trà, xoài rừngJP

Pulam-mangoo

プラムマンゴーRemarks

Distribution: Widely cultivated in tropical and subtropicalAsia.

Feb. 2010 Louang Phrabang, Laos

Life form: Tree. 6-30 m tall.
Use: Fruits are sweet and eaten as desserts.
Trunk is used to make a valuable varnish and wood is used for supports or pillars.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 42

Order: Sapindales
Family: Anacardiaceae

Spondias dulcis
LA

Kork

KH

Makak

មា្កក់

TH

Makok farang, Makok waanมะกอกฝรั่ง

VN

Coc

Cóc

JP

Ama-yani-lingo,
Tahichi-monbing, Tamago-no-ki

アマヤニリンゴ、タヒチ
モンビン、タマゴノキ

Remarks

Distribution: Native from Melanesia to Polynesia.
Introduced into all over the tropics.
Life form: Tree. 10 - 15m tall.

Jul. 2010 Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia

Use: Young leaves and fruits are edible. Fruits are eaten raw with salt and pepper. Ripe fruit isstewed and used for jams, jellies, and juice. The green fruit is used frequently in green salads,
curries, and making pickles.
In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, the bark is used against diarrhea. There are diverse
medicinal uses of fruit, leaves, and bark in different parts of the world. Its use for the treatment ofwounds, sores, and burns has been reported in several countries.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 27, 42, 45, 46, 47347

Or der : Sapindales

Spondias pinnata

Family: Anacardiaceae
Ï¾¡¡º¡

LA

Kok

KH

Mkak prei, Puen si phlae, មា្កក់
Pounblay
Ma kok, Kok-mon, Kok khao มะกอก

TH

.

VN

Coc rungJP

Yani-lingo, Kohaku-monbing ヤニリンゴ、コハクモンビン

Cóc rừng

Remarks

Distribution: From India to Malesia through Indochina.
Life form: Deciduous tree. 5-25 m tall.
Jan. 2009 Chiang Mai, Thailand

Use: Young leaves are eaten raw with fermented fish paste. It is used for Laap and Coi in Laos.
Raw fruits are edible but not so popular because of their astringent, acid and turpentine flavor. It is
used for a crystallized fruits, jam and ice cream.
The trunk is used against the malaria in Cambodia. Medicinally the fruit is used as an astringent,antiscorbutic and it is also used against bilious dyspepsia. The juice is applied against earache.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 27, 42, 45, 46, 47

Order: Sapindales
Family: Meliaceae

Azadirachta indicaLA

Ka dao, Khom

ກາເດ
ົ າ

KH

Sdau, Salien

េសៅ្ត

TH

Sadao, Saliam, Kadao

สะเดา

VN

Sau dauSầu đâu

JP

Indo-sendang

インドセンダン、ニーム

Remarks

Distribution: Native to Indo-Pakistan to Myanmar. It is
widely cultivated.

Feb. 2010

Louang Phrabang, Laos

Life form: Tree. Up to 25m tall.
Use: Boiled young leaves and flowers are eaten as bitter-taste vegetable. Fruits are sweet andedible.
Mature leaves have anti-diabetic properties. Bark is used like quinine. India extracted acontraceptive ingredient from dried seed in 1994. In the traditional medicine of Thailand, tea madefrom dried flowers is used for stomach health and used as an antifebrile.
Ref. No.: 11, 21, 27, 41, 42, 45, 46, 47, 49348

Order: Sapindales
Family: Rutaceae

Aegle marmelos
LATumÏ¾¡ªø´

KH

Pnou

ភ្េនៅ

TH

Matum

มะตูม

VN

Quanch, Bau nau

Quách, Bầu nâu

JPBelu-no-ki

ベルノキ

Remarks

Distribution: Originated in the India. Cultivated in
Indochina and Malesia.

Sep. 2009 Chiang Rai, Thailand

Life form: Tree. Up to 10-15m tall.
Use: Young shoots are eaten as a salad. Ripe fruit is eaten fresh and is also prepared as sherbet,
syrup, and jam. The most popular usage is tea made with sliced and dried young fruits.
As a medicine, the tea has an effect on chronic dysentery, diarrhea and constipation.
General info.: It is an old cultivated tree in India, particularly found in temple gardens. In
Indochina, trees are grown nearby villages.
Ref. No.: 17, 42, 45, 47

Order: Sapindales
Family: Rutaceae

Citrus hystrix
LA

Khee hootÏ¾¡, Ã®¢š¹ø©

KH

Kro sauch្រកូចេសីច

TH

Makrutมะกรู ดVN

Truc, Chanh sac

Trúc, Chanh sác

JP

Kobu-mikan

コブミカン

Remarks

Distribution: Widely naturalized from Sri Lanka to Malesia
through Indochina.

Jul. 2013

Battanbang, Cambodia

Life form: Tree. Up to 12 m tall.
Use: Leaves are the flavoring ingredient famously called"Bai Makrut" in Thailand. The juice of the fruit is used forseasoning and to prepare drinks.
Fruits are used as an insecticide in shampoo and it is also
used for treating feet to ward off leech attack.
General info.: Usually it is planted in a home-garden. In
Cambodia, the fruit is mixed with lustral water for use inreligious ceremonies.
Ref. No.: 12, 27, 42, 45, 47
349

Sep. 2007 Vientiane Laos

Order: Sapindales
Family: Rutaceae

Feroniella lucida
LA

Sang

KH

Krasang្រកសាំងសុីែផ្ល, ្រកសាំងពុល

TH

Ma sang, Mak ka sang

มะสัง

VN

Can thangCần thăng

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Indochina and Java.
Life form: Tree. Up to 25 m tall.
Jul. 2010 Kratie, Cambodia

Use: The pulp which surround the seeds of young fruit is used as an acid element in Cambodian
culinary called "samla mchu". The flowers are also used as vegetables or to prepare some dishes.
In traditional medicine, flowers and leaves are used as a medicine which helps digestion. In
modern chemistry, some organic compounds are extracted from the root system. Control of cancer
cells, anti-malarial activity, and an anti-tuberculosis activity has been reported. The bark is used tomake incense sticks in Cambodia.
General info.: It is often seen at local markets in Cambodia and Vietnam.
Ref. No.: 10, 19, 27, 31, 45
Order: Sapindales
Family: Rutaceae

Limonia acidissima
LA

Ka sang

KH

Khvat

ខ្វិត

TH

Ma khwitมะขวิด

VN

Quach, Can thang

Quách, Cần thăng

JP

Wood-Apple

ウッドアップル.

Remarks

Distribution: Wilde in India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar andIndochina. Cultivated and naturalized in Malaysia andJul. 2010 Kratie, Cambodia

Indonesia.
Life form: Tree. Up to 12m tall.
Use: The fresh pulp of the ripe fruit is eaten with sugar. It contains rich vitamin and minerals.
In traditional Khmer medicine, fruits are used for a heart tonic and pulp is used for gingivitis.
Leaves are used for an anti-diarrheal. In the modern chemistry, various components such asalkaloid and a steroid are extracted. It has an anticarcinoma activity.
Ref. No.: 17, 27, 28, 45, 46, 47, 52

350

Order: Sapindales
Family: Rutaceae

Murraya koenigii
LA
KH

Kontorop, Kantrook, Kantroob កេ្រន្ទាក,កេ្រន្តាកសម្ល
samla

TH

Hom khaek, Bai kariหอมแขก, ใบกะหรี่

VN

La cari

Lá cà-riJP

Ooba-gekkitsu,
Nanyo-sansho

Kalee-no-ki, オオバゲッキツ、カレーノ

キ、ナンヨウサンショウ

Remarks

Distribution: From India to Indochina.
Life form: Small tree. Up to 4 m tall.
Jul. 2010

Kampong Chhnang,
Cambodia

Use: Leaves are used as condiments. It is used for soup called "Som low" in Cambodia, and the curryof India and Sri Lanka. English name is “Curry leaf”.
One Japanese women scientist who lived in Indochina over the long term said that “Even if thewhite flowers boiled in soy sauce, it did not lose a scent. It was good side dish.”
In India, it is used as a medicine from B.C.. In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, the bark, root,and leaves are considered invigorating and tonic. The decoctions of leaves are used to bathechildren with scabies. Recent scientist reports indicate a decoction of leaves has strong
antimicrobial action.
Ref. No.: 18, 27, 40, 42, 46, 48

351

Order: Sapindales
Family: Rutaceae

Zanthoxylum sp.
LA

Khane

KH

.

TH
VN

Hoang moc

JP

Unnan-sansho

Hoàng mộc(cf. 40)

ウンナンサンショウ (cf. 40)

Remarks

Life form: Genus Zanthoxylum is shrub or tree. The leaves
and fruits of this species looks like Zanthoxylum

ailanthoides that distribute in Japan. The fruit is about

Nov. 2011 Vang Vieng , Laos

4mm in diameter.
Use: Fruit walls are used as a strong condiment. When theauthor bit into this fruit, the tongue went numb about 10
minutes. Young leaves are also used as a vegetable withlaap or Bamboo shoot.
General info.: Literatures shows Z. rhetsa and Z.

myriacanthum and we think this species in the photos may
be Z. myriacanthum because of the fruit size.
Ref. No.: 13, 14, 17, 40, 47, 48

Nov. 2011 Vang Vieng , Laos

Order: Sapindales
Family: Sapindaceae

Arytera litoralis
°ñ¡¡¾

LA

Ka dukKH

Bei sanlekTH

Si puk dong, Kho kam

VN

Truong duyen haiTrường duyên hảiJPFutago-no-ki

フタゴノキ

.

Remarks

Distribution: From India to Solomon through China,
Indochina and Malesia.
Life form: Small tree. 3-10m tall.

Sep. 2009 Houayxay, Laos

Use: Young leaves are eaten as vegetable in Laos. The fruits are also edible.
Ref. No.: 10, 14, 15, 27, 45, 46352

Order: Sapindales
Family: Sapindaceae

Nephelium hypoleucumLA

Ton mak ngayªí−Ï¾¡Á¤È¸

KH

Ser moenសិរមាន់

TH

Kho lean, Ma ngaeo

คอแลน

VN

Chom chom trang duoi

Chôm chôm trắng dướiJP
Remarks

Distribution: Indochina.
Life form: Tree. Up to 30m high. It grows in the forest
nearby the village.
Jul. 2008 Vientiane, Laos

Use: The acidic fleshy seed coat is edible.
The wood is used to make tool handles.
Ref. No.: 14, 27

Order: Sapindales
Family: Sapindaceae

Schleichera oleosaLA

Kho som, Kho

KH

PongroTH

Ta khro, Kho, Kho som, Pan ตะคร้อ
rong
Dau dauDấu dầu

VN

ព្រង

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Introduced from Sri Lanka and India to eastparts of Indonesia through Indochina.

Jun. 2011 Parkse, Laos

Life form: Tree. Up to 40m tall. Typically growing near termite mounds. The fruit is reddish yellow,
juicy and sour aril.
Use: Young leaves may be eaten as a vegetable in Thailand. The fruit is eaten raw or cooked, buteating too much of it causes stomach ache. Young fruits are sometimes used in spicy papaya saladin Lao. The golden yellow arillus is used to acidulate some liquid dishes, especially spawns "samla"
in Cambodia.
The seed contain up to 70% oil, called "Macassar oil", which has the reputation of stimulating hair
growth. Boiled seed is used to treat back pain and the peel of the fruit is applied to wounds. Barkand stem extracts are used for wounds and to slow down cancer cell growth. The bark is mixed with
red ants to treat stomach aches. It has been believed that the bark is an effective remedy against
malaria and various inflammations. It was discovered recently that sterol or steroid alcohols in thebark have anti-cancer properties.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 51353

Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae

Ceiba pentandraLA

Ngiu barn

KH

Kou, Koor fii

TH

Nun

VN

Bong gon

Bông gòn

JP

Panya-no-ki

パンヤノキ

គរ

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from India. Cultivated intropical South America, Africa and Asia.

Jul. 2010 Stung Treng , Cambodia

Life form: Deciduous tree up to 20m tall. Fruit capsule oblong, 12-15 by 3-5 cm, densely silky hairy
inside. Seed shape is reniform and color is black.
Use: Young flowers and fruits are consumed as vegetables in Cambodia.
In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, resin from the trunk is dilated into water. It constitutes adelicious tonic dessert. Bark is used as a medicine for diarrhea.
Its cotton is used as contents for bedding or pillows.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 46

Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae

Hibiscus sabdariffa
LA

Sompordee¦í´²ð©óKH

Kro chap kdamស្លឹកជូរ,សណ្តាន់េទស

TH

Krachiap
daeng
Sompormo, Sompordee

VN

Bup giam, Day nhatBụp giấm, Đay NhậtJP

Rozel-so

ローゼルソウ, กระเจี๊ยบแดง

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from Africa. Introduced to
Pan-tropics.
Life form: Annual herb. 0.5-3m tall.

Sep. 2007 Vientiane, Laos

Use: Young leaves are used as an acidic ingredient for cooked dishes like Tamarindo soup. Ripe
fruits are sour. It is used for jelly, syrup, and juice.
In the traditional medicine of Thailand, buds and leaves are used as digestive medicine. A decoction
is used to wash a wound. Flowers are effective against fever, cough, and to remove bile. It is
supposed that the seed reduces fat in blood.
Ref. No.: 6, 18, 46, 47, 49354

Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae

Leptonychia heteroclite
LA

Wanຜັກຫວານ

Wan dam, Wan parผักหวานดํา

KH
TH
VN
JP
Remarks

Distribution: From India to Indonesia through Indochina.
Life form: Shrub, 1-3m tall.

Feb. 2010

Thakhek, Laos

Use: Buds, young leaves, and young fruit are boiled or steamed. It is taken with a fermented fish
paste or with Laap. It is also cooked with ant egg, fish, and coconut soups.
In the traditional medicine of Thailand, a root suppresses the work of poison. It is prescribed when
one is in ill-condition.
Ref. No.: 5, 14

Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae

Scaphium macropodum
LA

Jon, Jon ban

KH

Samrang

TH

Samrong, Phung thalaiสํารอง, พุงทะลาย

VN

Luoi uoiLười ươi

JP

Funemi-no-ki

フネミノキ

Remarks

Distribution: From Indochina to Borneo and Sumatra
through peninsula Malaysia.
Life form: Tree. Up to 45m tall.

Jul. 2011 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Use: The Jelly made from water soaked seed is eaten. In
Laos, the dish using this jelly called "Laap mak jon" isconsidered fine dining.
This jelly is also used as a medicine for the throat.
General info.: Seeds are collected from the forest. It is notin the village area.
Ref. No.: 12, 21, 27, 33, 34
1996 Pasoh FR, Malaysia

355

Order: Malvales
Family: Muntingiaceae

Muntingia calaburaLA

Ta khop

KH

Krakhob្រកខុប

TH

Ta khop farangตะขบฝรั่ง

VN

Trung ca, Mat samTrứng cá, Mật sâm

JP

Nanyou-zakura

ナンヨウザクラ

.

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from West Indies and Mexico.
Cultivated in the tropics.

Jul. 2011 Parske, Laos

Life form: Small tree. Up to 10m tall.
Use: Ripe fruit is eaten raw. It is a snack for children. It is not seen in local markets.
In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, crushed fresh leaves are applied to bee and wasp stings.
Roots are a component of a medicine for some diseases of the liver.
General info.: Usually it is planted in front of a house and along the village wayside in the
Indochina region.
Ref. No.: 14, 17, 18, 27, 46

Order: Brassicales
Family: Brassicaceae

Nasturtium officinaleLA

Si sang°ñ¡−Õ

KH

Kong kepេភៅ្លកែង្កប

VN

Cai-soongCải soong, Xà lách xoong

JP

Oranda-galashi, Kuleson

オランダガラシ、クレソン

TH

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from Europe. Introduced andcultivated in the world.

Jul. 2010 Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia

Life form: Aquatic perennial herb. Emergent plant. It grows in shallow water.
Use: Young shoots are eaten raw as a salad plant.
General info.: Cultivation canals are used for commercial production. Plants that have escaped
cultivation canals can be found in the streams or drain canals of a village and are collected by the
local people.
Ref. No.: 14, 18356

Order: Brassicales
Family: Cleomaceae

Cleome gynandra
LA

Sien

KH

MamienមមាញTHSian, Som siangผักเสี้ ยน

VN

Mangmang trang

Màng màng trắng

JP

Fuchoso

フウチョウソウ

Remarks

Distribution: Native to Asia. Widely introduced to the oldworld and new world tropics.

Aug. 2013 Battambang, Cambodia

Life form: Annual herb. 15-80cm tall.
Use: Leaves are used for a vegetable. It is a bitter-taste ingredient.

In traditional medicine, adecoction of the roots is taken as a febrifuge, and used against tuberculosis. The fermented plant isused to sober up, and placed on a tumor to sooth itchiness. Because it has a negative influence on
the womb, it is supposed that a pregnant woman must not eat.
Ref. No.: 7, 27, 46, 47, 49
Order: Brassicales
Family: Moringaceae

Moringa oleifera
LA

Ii fim, Ihum

KH

M'rom, Mrum

TH

Marum, Phak e-heem, มะรุ ม
Phak e-hum, Ma khon kom

VN

Chum ngayChùm ngâyJP

Wasabi-no-ki

ワサビノキ

្រមុម

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from India. Cultivated andnaturalized in tropical Asia, Africa and America.

Sep. 2012 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Life form: Small tree. Up to 10m tall. Leaves compound, tripinnate, 30-60cm long.
Use: Young leaves and fruits are edible. Small leaflets are cooked with soup. Deep fried leaflets areeaten with salt. Young fruits without green peel are boiled or fried. Leaves and fruits are scent ? andnot spicy. It is rich in vitamins, calcium, and iron.
In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, bark is given as tonic for women to drink after delivery.
Ben oil is extracted from the seeds. This oil contains a powerful flocculant that is used to clarify
turbid water.
General info.: The Ministry of HLW of Japan has called attention to the ingestion of this species;“http://www.mhlw.go.jp/topics/bukyoku/iyaku/syoku-anzen/hokenkinou/4e-3.html” ( May 2004).
Ref. No.: 27, 40, 42, 45, 46, 48357

Order: Santalales
Family: Opiliaceae

Melientha suavisLAWan, Wan kok°ñ¡Á¸−

KH

Preich្រពិច

TH

Phak wanผักหวาน

VN

Ran sang

Rau sắng

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malay Peninsula,and Philippines.

Feb. 2010 Savannakhet, Laos

Life form: Small tree. Up to 10m tall.
Use: Young shoots and flowers are eaten as vegetables. This plant is famous in Cambodia as a mostdelicious of all vegetables. They are eaten cooked in various culinary preparations. It contains richvitamin C and the protein.
General info.: It is seen in the market uncommonly. The Flora of Thailand called attention to thedifficulty in identifying Melientha suavis without flowers or fruits since similar leaves of otherspecies are sometimes eaten. Thailand reports that poisoning and death may occur if leaves of thewidespread Urobotrya siamensis are mistakenly eaten.
Ref. No.: 14, 27

358

Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Molluginaceae

Glinus oppositifolius
LA

Dong kok

KH

Dang’khem

TH

Phak khuangผักขวง

VN

Rau dang dat

Rau đắng đất

JP
Remarks

Distribution: The tropics.
Life form: Annual herb. Stem erect spreading sometime

Feb. 2010 Savannakhet, Laos

creeping; branches 3-50 cm.
Use: As a vegetable substitute. The bitter leaves are eaten
cooked with meat or fish and for soup.
In traditional medicine, the leaves are used to treat headaces and flu as well as digestive-system troubles in
Cambodia.
General info.: Grows in open land places which periodicallyflood, sandy banks, and paddy fields durning the dry season.
The acridity is quite similar to Swertia japonica (Japanese

Feb. 2010

Thakhek, Laosname is Senburi).
Ref. No.: 14, 27

Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Portulacaceae

Portulaca oleraceaLA

Tin khii khap

°ñ¡ຕ
ີ ນຂ
ີ ້ ເຂ
ັ ບ

KH

Kbet chun្របមា៉ត់ថ្មTH

Bia yaiผักเบี้ยใหญ่

VN

Sam

Sam

JP

Suberi-hiyu

スベリヒユ

Remarks

Distribution: The tropics and the sub-tropics.
Life form: Annual herb, more or less creeping, branchingout, 10-30cm. Grows in waysides and uncultivated places ofa village.
Use: Eaten as a vegetable.
The decoction of leaves is absorbed to aid diarrhea.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 46
359

Feb. 2010 Pakse Laos

Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Polygonaceae

Polygonum odoratum°ñ¡Á²È¸LA

Peo, Phaew

KH

Krasang tumhum

TH

Phak phaiผักไผ่

VN

Rau ramRau răm

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Southeast Asia.
Life form: Annual herb. 50 -80cm tall.

Feb. 2010

Thakhek, Laos

Use: Leaves are used as a condiment. It is strong and pungent. It is eaten raw with meat.
It has anthelmintic action.
Ref. No.: 12, 18, 22, 27, 42

Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Basellaceae

Basella alba
LA

Pang

ຜັກປ
ັ ¤

KH

Chunlueng, Chilongជន្លង់

TH

Plangผักปลัง

VN

Mong toiMồng tơi

JP

Tsulu-murasaki

ツルムラサキRemarks

Distribution: Introduced to the tropics. Probably from Africa.
Life form: Herbaceous climber.

Jul. 2010 Kratie, Cambodia

Use: Leaves and flowers are eaten raw or cooked. It is a daily vegetable with high nutritive value.
The seeds yield many things from juice to eye-salve. A tea made from the whole plant is used as alaxative for children and for easing child delivery.
General info.: It is often seen in a home garden, near villages, and old clearings.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 23, 27, 41, 46, 49

360

Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Amaranthaceae

Amaranthus spinosus
Houm°ñ¡¹ö´

KH

Ptiផ្ទីបន្លា

TH

Phak khom nam,ผักขมหนาม
Phak hom nam
Den xanh, Den hoang, Den Dền xanh, Dền hoang, Dền gai
gai

LA

VN
JP

Hali-biyu

Remarks

ハリビユ

Distribution: Originated from the new world

tropics. Distributed to the tropics and warm temperateregions of the world.
Jul. 2008 Keun, Vientiane, Laos

Life form: Annual herb. 40～80cm tall.
Use: Young leaves are eaten as a vegetable or soup.

In the traditional medicine of Indochina, roots are used as a diuretic, for gonorrhea, an anti-febrile,and a plaster for wound. Leaves are also used as an anti-febrile, a remedy for poison, a skinemollient, and a galactagogue.
Ref. No.: 6, 14, 18, 25, 27, 46, 47

Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Amaranthaceae

Amaranthus tricolorLA

Hom den°ñ¡¹ö´Á©¤KH

Pti leakផ្ទី្រកហម ផ្ទិដូង

TH

Khom si, Khom khao

VN

Den canh, Den tia

Dền canh, Dền tía

JP

Hiyu

ヒユ

Remarks

Distribution: Cultivated in pan-tropic. Native to India.
Life form: Annual herb. Often much branched, up to 2m tall.

Feb. 2010 Savannakhet, Laos

Use: Popular vegetable in local markets. Often cultivated in the home garden as a daily vegetable.
Eaten like spinach. Seed contains rich starch.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 39, 46

361

Order: Ericales
Family: Ebenaceae

Diospyros decandra
LA

Chan

KH

Chan

ចាន់, ែប៉ន

TH

Chan

จัน

VN

Thi

Thị

JP
Remarks

Distribution: India, South China, Indochina.
Life form: Evergreen tree. Up to 20m tall.

Jul. 2010 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Use: Fruits are eaten raw. People of Indochina love the fragrance of this fruit.
Leaves, roots, and fruits are used in traditional medicine. Leaves are used as poultice applied on
ulcers. Roots are a component of a remedy against the plague and venereal diseases. Fruits areused as vermifuge. Wood is very hard and used in cabinetwork.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 47

Order: Ericales
Family: Ebenaceae

Diospyros sp.
LA

Ta kouangÏ¾¡ª¾¡¸¾¤

KH
TH
VN
JP
Remarks

Use: Fruits are eaten raw. In February, the fruits were soldat a temporary market along a road in south Laos.

362

2010 Feb. 19 Thakhek, Laos

Order: Ericales
Family: Lecythidaceae

Barringtonia acutangula°ñ¡¡າÂ©−−ÕLA

Ka don nam

KH

Trouy reang

TH

Chik na, Kra don tun, Kra จิกนา
don nam
Chiec, Loc vungChiếc, Lộc vừngVN

រាំងទឹក, រាំងអន្លក់

JP
Remarks

Distribution: From Pakistern to Malesia and northern
Australia through Indochina.
Life form: Tree. 10-25m tall. It grows in swamps,
water-banks, and lowlands that get soaked in the rainy

Feb. 2010

Pakse, Laos aseason.
Use: Young leaves are eaten as salads. It is rich and bitter tasting. It is popular in local markets of
Indochina.
The edible part exhibits extremely high antioxidant activity. There are a lot of reports about its
medicinal components i.e. an anticancer, antibacterial action, an opioid analgesia agent, and so on.
In the local medicine of Cambodia, the bark is said to be efficient against fever, diarrhea, malaria,
and gonorrhea. Root is usable in substitution for a cinchona. In Thailand, decoction of bark is used
to wash wounds. Fruits are used as a cold medicine.
General info.: The dominant species of Lake Tonle Sap.
Ref. No.: 6, 7, 8, 9, 17, 27, 47, 49363

Order: Ericales
Family: Lecythidaceae

Careya arborea
LA

Ka don, Ka don hok°ñ¡¡¾Â©−KH

Reang koukកេណ្តាល

TH

Kradon, Kradon kokกระโดน

VN

Vung, Vung xoan

Vừng, Vừng xoan

JP
Remarks

Distribution: From India to Indochina and Malay peninsula.
Life form: Tree. Up to 20m tall.
Use: Young leaves are eaten as a salad with fermented fish

Jul. 2010

Stung Treng, Cambodia

Feb. 2010

Nam Song, Pakse, Laos

paste or Cheo in Laos and Thailand.
In traditional medicine, fruits are used for digestion. Seeds
are used as antidote for poison and bark is a medicine ofdiarrhea. Black dye from the bark is is used to wash andbandage ulcerated wounds.
The bark is used make saddlecloth for elephants.
Ref. No.: 7, 16, 17, 27, 44

Order: Ericales
Family: Theaceae

Camellia sinensis
LA

Xar

KH

Tae

TH

Miang

เมี่ยง

VN

Tra

Trà

JP

Cha-no-ki

チャノキ

Remarks

Distribution: From India to Indochina and south China.
Life form: Shrub. Up to 15m tall.
Use: Cultivated for conventional tea and fermented tea.
Fermented tea leaves are eaten. Fresh leaves occasionallyare seen in a local market.
Ref. No.: 14, 26, 27, 46364

Nov. 2011 Vang Vieng, Laos

Order: Gentianales
Family: Rubiaceae

Gardenia obtusifoliaLA

See dar parÏ¾¡¦ó©¾¯È¾

KH

Bai remeas , Plae oulបាយរមាស

TH

Kramopกระมอบ

VN

Danh danh la ta

Dành dành lá tà

JPLife form: Shrub. Up to 4m tall.
Use: Fruits are eaten raw. It has not been seen in markets
but found growing in an empty lot near by a village.
Jul. 2008 Dong Makkai, Vientiane, Laos

Ref. No.: 12

Order: Gentianales
Family: Rubiaceae

Morinda citrifoliaLA

Nyor barn

KH

Nho srokTH

Yo banVN

Nhao, Nhau

Nhào, Nhàu

JP

Yaeyama-aoki

ヤエヤマアオキ

Remarks

Distribution: Native of Queensland. Widespreadthroughout Southeast Asia.
Life form: Shrub. 4-10m tall. Often cultivated near houses.

Aug. 2013 Battambang, Cambodia

Use: Leaves often eaten as vegetables in a special dish, "amok" in Cambodia. Ripe fruits eaten withsome salt.
In traditional, the roots are used as a hypotensive medicine.
Know as “Noni” in Hawaii; the white ripe fruit is picked, washed, put in a container, and kept in acool dark place to produce a clear liquid that is consume for medicinal purposes.
Ref. No.: 12, 27, 45, 46, 47

365

Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae

Aganonerion polymorphumÀ£ˆº¦í´ìö´LAKhea som lom

KH

Thnong, Kaot prumេកាត្រពំ , ថ្នង(វល្លិ)TH

Som lomส้มลมVN

Day dang, Day la giang

Dây dang, Dây lá Giang

JP
Remarks

Distribution: Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos.
Life form: Climber. It is grown at a common of village.
Jul. 2010 Kratie, Cambodia

Use: The leaves and fruits are used fresh in cooking as a substitute for lemon. At the local market inCambodia, this plant is often seen. Acid ingredient.
Elastic stem used as a string.
Ref. No.: 14, 27

Order: Gentianales
Family: Apocynaceae

Telosma cordataLA

Xar deua

KH

Sralot្រសឡិត

TH

Salit

สลิด

VN

Thien lyThiên lýJP

Yalaikou

ヤライコウ

Remarks

Distribution: Origin unknown. Cultivated in India andSoutheast Asia.
Life form: Climber.

Aug. 2013 Ho Chi minh, Vietnam

Use: Young leaves and flowers eaten as vegetables in the Cambodia dish "Samla”.
The juice of leaves would have curative properties against uterine ptosis.
Ref. No.: 27, 42, 46366

Order: Lamiales
Family: Plantaginaceae

Limnophila aromatic°ñ¡Î¾´ (°ñ¡¢½Á¨¤)LA

Kha yang

KH

M'orm

TH

Ka phrao yai, Khayaengกะเพราใหญ่

VN

Rau om, Ngo om

Rau Om, Ngò om

JP

Shiso-kusa

シソクサ

Remarks

Distribution: From India and Sri Lanka to Indochina,
southern China, Japan, Taiwan, throughout Southeast Asiaand northern Australia.

Jul. 2008 Vientiane province, Laos

Life form: Annual herb, 30-100cm tall. Emergent plant.
Use: The young shoots are used to flavor some dishes, in particular "samla" in Cambodia and“Somtam” Papaya salad in Thailand and Laos.
In traditional medicine, stems and leaves are components of an antispasmodic remedy. The sap ofleaves is used to clean wounds, and a decoction of the leaves is given for fever. It is used as apurgative. It is supposed that pregnant woman must not eat.
In external use, stalks and leaves mixed with wood ash and common salt make a cosmetic for
face-care.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 18, 27, 46, 47, 52

Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae

Ocimum tenuiflorumLA

Ee tooKH

Mrua prauTH

Ka phraoกะเพรา

VN

Huong nhuHương nhuJP

Kami-mebouk

カミメボウキRemarks

Distribution: Native to tropical Asia. Introduced to thetropics.
Life form: Herbaceous plant. 30-60cm tall.

Jul. 2010 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Use: The leaves are used for flavoring “Chan kdao” in Cambodia. It is cultivated especially for the
mucilaginous seeds, which is soaked in water to make a soft drink.
In traditional medicine, the seeds would facilitate delivery.
Ref. No.: 12, 27, 46, 47
367

Order: Lamiales
Family: Bignoniaceae

Markhamia stipulate
LA

Khae , Khae paa©º¡Á£È¯È¾,ໝາກດອກແຄປ
່ າ

KH

Dak po, Chroluf

ដកព

TH

Khae, Khae pa, Khae hang แค
khang

VN

Thiet dinh, DinhThiết đinh, ĐinhJP
Remarks

Distribution: From south China to Indochina.
Life form: Small tree. Up to 15m tall.
Use: Flowers and young fruits are edible. Young fruits areboiled after burning the hair of the surface. It is eaten withFeb. 2010

Thakhek, Laos

Laap. This plant is a bitter ingredient. Since flesh corollas
are collected in the early morning, the flowers are seen
only in the morning market.
Bark is used as a medicine in Laos.
General info.: The meaning of “khae hang khang ” in Thai
is a tail of guenon.
Ref. No.: 14, 41, 51, 52
Feb. 2010

368

Savannakhet, Laos

Order: Lamiales
Family: Bignoniaceae

Oroxylum indicum
LA

LinmaiÏ¾¡ìó−Ä´É

KH

Pika, Sroum dauេ្រសាមដាវ

TH

Pheka, Linmai, Ma linmai

เพกา

VN

Nuc nac

Núc nác

JP

Sorizaya-no-ki

ソリザヤノキRemarks

Distribution: From Nepal and Bhutan to Java, Sumatra
and Pilippines through Indochina.

Feb. 2010

Thakhek, Laos

Life form: Small tree. Up to 12m. Length of fruit is60-100cm. When fruit is ripe, a sheath rolls back open.
Seeds with a thin wing are launched gliding.?
Use: After roasting young sheath, the burnt skin is
stripped, it is then washed with warm water and sliced
thinly. It is eaten with fermented shrimp paste, Laap, orsoup. Young leaves and flowers are boiled and eaten withchili paste in oil.
Flavonoid is contained in a leaf and a seed. It has
inflammation, allergy, a free radical, and oncostasis effect. A

Feb. 2010

Savannakhet, Laosseed is the material of a Chinese medicine which serves tocure an ulcer.
In traditional medicine of Cambodia, they are used to treat
diarrhoea and dysentery. In Thailand, decoction of seeds areused as a cough medicine.
General info.: Locally cultivated near human settlements orhome gerdens.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 15, 18, 21, 23, 26, 27, 47, 48, 49
Jan. 2009 Mae Hong Son, Thailand369

Order: Lamiales
Family: Bignoniaceae

Radermachera ignea
LA

Peeb

KH

Jeik kriumTH

Ang kial bo, Kaki, Kasalong
kham

VN

Ra det lua©º¡¯ó®

Rà đẹt lửaJP
Remarks

Distribution: South China, Burma, Laos, and Vietnam.
Life form: Evergreen tree, 6-15 m high. Corolla orange,

Feb. 2010 Thakhek, Laostubular-funnel-shape.
Use: Flowers are used as an ingredient in soup.
Ref. No.: 14, 17

Order: Solanales
Family: Hydroleaceae

Hydrolea zeylanica°ñ¡Ä§ºÈ¼−

LA

Saieing, Bee ian

KH

Krapen tuk, Tien, Kon deang កេណ្តៀង

TH

Po phiปอผี

VN

Thuy le, La nuocThủy lệ, Lá nướcJP

Seiron-hakobe

セイロンハコベ

Remarks

Distribution: S. China, Burma, Laos, and Vietnam.
Life form: Annual herb. Emergent plant. 10-60cm tall.

Jul. 2008

Vientiane province Laos

Use: The young shoots are consumed as vegetables and sometimes sold at markets.
In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, leaves are prescribed for intestinal tumors.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 46

370

Order: Solanales
Family: Solanaceae

Solanum capsicoides
LA

Kheua kheun

Ï¾¡À¢ˆº¢ˆ−

KH

Trap lung, Trap khaa្រតប់លុ, ្រតប់

TH

Kheua kheun

VN

Ca trai vang

Cà trái vàng

JP

Kingin-nasubi

キンギンナスビ

Remarks

Distribution: Originally from coastal Brazil. Now commonly
naturalized in the tropics and the subtropics.
Life form: Perennial herb. 1.2m tall.
Jul. 2008

Vientiane province Laos

Use: Fruits are eaten with papaya salad. It is used to make pickles in Thailand.
This fruit softens an astringent taste.
Root is used as an antitussive and is effective in controlling blood fat.
General info.: The meaning of “Kheun” in Lao is a strong smell. It is planted in the home garden or
the circumference of a settlement.
Ref. No.: 7, 12, 46, 47, 52
Order: Solanales
Family: Solanaceae

Solanum torvum
LA

Kheng

Ï¾¡Á£¤

KH

Trap put raw nyong្រតប់ពត់លំញង

TH

Ma khuea phuang, Khengมะเขือพวง

VN

Ca nut ao, Ca dai hoa trang

Cà nút áo, Cà dại hoa trắng

JP

Suzume-nasubi

スズメナスビRemarks

Distribution: Originally from South America. Now
commonly naturalized in the tropics.
Life form: Perennial herb. 2-3m tall. A fruit is 8-10mm inFeb. 2010, Savannakhet, Laos

diameter. Flower is white.
Use: It is an essential ingredient in Thai curry and many dishes in Indochina. It also eaten raw
with paste. It has a subtle bitter taste.
In the traditional medicine of Thailand, the fruit is used as an emulgent, antitussive, anddigestant. Squeezed leaves are used to stop bleeding.
General info.: It is planted in home gardens. Plants that grow on the wayside or a common are used.
Ref. No.: 18, 26, 27, 46, 49, 52371

Order: Solanales
Family: Solanaceae

Solanum stramoniifolium
LA

Eak

ໝາກເອ
ິ ກ

TH

Ma uekมะอึก

VN

Ca phao

Cà pháo

JP

Coconijya, Ke-nasu

ココニージャ、ケナス

KH

Remarks

Distribution: Originally from Amazon. Commonly in
Indochina.
Life form: Perennial herb. Up to 2m tall. Fruit 2-3cm inJun. 2007 Vientiane province, Laos

diameter, covered by densely hairs. Flower is white or
purple.
Use: The ripe fruits are used for papaya salad. The fruits are used as juice that has a flavor similar
to peach and tomato. It is also eaten raw. In Laos, it is a ingredient in Cheo dip sauce.
It contains vitamin C.
General info.: Sometmes, the hair removed fruits are sold in the market.
Ref. No.: 7, 49

Order: Solanales
Family: Solanaceae

Solanum violaceum

VN

Kheng khomໝາກແຄ¤ຂົ ມ
Traup put raw nyong pray, ្រតប់ពត់លំញង
Trab put lumnhong
Ma kae khom, Ma waeng, Ma
khwaeng dam
Ca An
Cà Ấn

JP

Tenjiku-nasubi

LA
KH
TH

テンジクナスビ

Remarks

Distribution: Widely cultivated in tropical Asia.
Life form: Perennial herb. 1.5m tall. The Color of flower ispurple. The fruit is 6mm in diameter.

Jul. 2010 Pakse, Laos

Use: Young fruit is eaten with fermented fish paste, Laap, and Coi.
It contains vitamin B.
In the traditional medicine of Thailand, it has effect against diabetes, food poisoning, and fever.
General info.: This fruit looks like S.torvum. An identifying point in a market is the purple color offlower, the small size of fruit and arrangement of fruits. The fruits are attached equals right andleft of the scape lengthwise. The meaning of “khom” in Lao and Thai is bitter.
Ref. No.: 7, 46, 48, 49372

Order: Solanales
Family: Convolvulaceae

Ipomoea aquatic
LA

Bong

ຜັກບ
ົ້ ¤

KH

Trow kun sor្រតកូន

TH

Phak bungผักบุง้

VN

Rau muongRau muống

JP

You-sai, Kuu-shin-sai

ヨウサイ、空心菜

Remarks

Distribution: Native of tropical Asia. Cultivated in thetropical and sub-tropical region.
Life form: A perennial or sometimes annual. It roots

Jul. 2010 Kampong Cham, Cambodia

in the ground at the shallow end or banks of a pond or canal. Hollow stems become elongated on thewater surface or ground.
Use: Young shoots are eaten raw or cooked. It is a very popular daily vegetable in Asia. There arevarious recipes. There is commercial cultivation for urban communities. In the local area, plants
growing in village canals or ponds are used.
In the traditional medicine of Cambodia, shoots are the component of a remedy against
Delirium and its associated high fever . The buds are used to make a paste for herpes.
General info.: There is a legend that forgetfulness will occur if taken too much.
Ref. No.: 5, 10, 18, 46, 49

Order: Solanales
Family: Convolvulaceae

Ipomoea batatasLA

Man darng, Man thet

KH

Domlong, Damloong chhieដំឡូងជ្វា

TH

Man thet, Mak oiมันเทศ

VN

Rau lang, Khoai lang

Rau lang, Khoai langJP

Satsuma-imo

サツマイモ

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from South America.
Life form: Annual herb.

Jul. 2011 Ratanakiri, Cambodia

Use: A root tuber known as Sweet potato. Not only the root tuber but also young shoot is eaten in
Indochina.
General info.: It was the vegetable of which it replaced Yam and Taro in Indochina in the 16th
century.
Ref. No.: 14, 27, 42, 46
373

Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae

Acmella paniculata
Khaat°ñ¡£¾©

TH

Khrat, Khrat phawenผักคราดVN

Cuc aoCúc áoJP

Sennichi-modoki

センニチモドキLA
KH

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from America. Naturalized to the
Asia tropics.
Life form: Annual plant. 50-100cm tall. It grows in theSep 2009 Chiang Rai, Thailand

wayside, fields, and village commons.
Use: Young leaves and flowers are eaten raw with paste as a salad. It is used for curry or Laap. It
contains rich minerals, calcium, iron, and vitamins A, B, and C.
Medicinal component are also rich in the flower, leaf, and root. Since spilanthol is contained in aflower, it has a paralysis action. In the traditional medicine of Thailand, the root is used as apurgative and flesh leaves have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Ref. No.: 5, 12, 22, 26, 40, 46, 48, 49

Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae

Gnaphalium sp.
Kath khao, Kev

ດອກ°ñ¡ກາດຂາວ

VN

Khuc vang, Khuc te

Khúc vàng, Khúc tẻJP

Hahako-gusa

ハハコグサの仲間

LA
KH
TH

Remarks

Life form: Annual plant. 10-20cm tall.
General info.: It is seen rarely at a local market in Laos.

Feb. 2010 Vientiane province, Laos

There is a new year custom of using this plant in Japan. "Nanakusa-Gayu" is the porridge whichuses seven ingredients of wild herbs and is eaten by the Japanese on the 7th of January. The sevenbitter plants used are; Oenanthe javanica, Capsella bursa-pastoris, Stellaria media, Lapsanastrum

apogonoides, Brassica rapa, Raphanus sativus, and Gnaphalium affine.
Ref. No.: 12, 18374

Order: Apiales
Family: Araliaceae

Hydrocotyle verticillata
LA

Boua bok, Nok

KH
TH

Waen kaeo

VN

Rau ma la sen, Rau ma nhat Rau má lá sen, Rau má NhậtJP

Uchiwa-zenikusa

ウチワゼニクサ

Remarks

Distribution: Originated from north America.
Life form: Perennial. Emergent plant. Leaf stem attachedFeb. 2010 Savanaket, Laos

center of leaf.

Use: Leaves are eaten as a vegetable. Since Lao name of this plant is same as Centella asiatica, thisplant is probably used similarly.
Ref. No.: 12, 46

Order: Apiales
Family: Araliaceae

Trevesia palmate
LA

Deua

ໝາກເດ
ື ອ

KH

.

TH

Tang luang

VN

Nhat phien, Thoi hoang, Nhật phiến, Thôi hoàng, đu đủ rừngDu du rungJP

Ally of Nanyou-yatsude

Ally of ナンヨウヤツデ

Remarks

Distribution: From India and South China, Myanmar to
Indochina.
Life form: Small tree. Up to 5m.

Feb. 2010 Louang Phrabang, Laos

Use: Young flowers are eaten at the end of the rainy season. It is used as bitter ingredient for spicy
curry.
It is known as the popular ornamental plant named ”snow flake”
General info.: There is no record of cultivation of this plant.
Ref. No.: 15, 17, 48, 49375

Order: Apiales
Family: Apiaceae

Anethum graveolens
LA

Sii

ຜັກຊ
ີ

KH

.

TH

Thian khao plueak, Thianta takkataen

VN

Rau thi la, Thia la

Rau Thì là, Thìa là

JP

Inondo, Dyl

イノンド、ディル

Remarks

Distribution: Europe, Mediterranean area, SW. Asia.
Life form: Annual herb. 50-100cm tall.
Aug 2013 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Use: Leaves are used as a vegetable. It is an ingredient in the hot and strong flavored curry named“Kaeng Lao”. It is popular in the local market.
Ref. No.: 14, 42, 46, 47

Order: Apiales
Family: Apiaceae

Centella asiatica
LANok°ñ¡Îº¡

KH

Trachiek, Tranh, Chi, Mlu្រតេចៀក្រតាញ់

TH

Boua bok, Nok, Wengkork

บัวบก

VN

Rau maRau Má

JP

Tsubokusa

ツボクサ

Remarks

Distribution: Tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Life form: Perennial creeping herb.

Sep. 2009 Chiang Rai, Thailand

Use: Leaves are consumed as vegetables. Raw leaves are used as salad with fermented shrimp
paste. It is eaten with noodles, curry, Laap, and Coi. Extracted leaves are used to make a freshjuice. It has the invigorating scent peculiar to Apiaceae.
It has been known as a medicinal plant since early times. Sap of leaves has a antimicrobial
property. It clarifies the blood and is well known also for treating cough and tuberculosis. It is
known to have both sedative and moral stable actions.
Ref. No.: 5, 14, 18, 27, 40, 45, 46, 47

376

Order: Apiales
Family: Apiaceae

Coriandrum sativum
LA

Horm parn, Horm porm°ñ¡¢½Á¨½

KH

Chi van soyវា៉ន់ស៊ុយ (ជី)

TH

Chi, Hom pom, Hom noi

ผักชี

VN

Ngo ri, Rau mui, Ngo ta

Ngò rí, Rau Mùi, Ngò ta

JP

Koendoro, Kousau, Koliandaa, コエンドロ、香菜、コリア
ンダー、パクチー
Phak-chiRemarks

Distribution: Europe, Mediterranean, Asia. Cultivated in

Nov. 2008 Louang Phrabang Laosthe tropics and sub-tropics.
Life form: Annual herb. 50-100cm tall.
Use: The fruit is commonly used as a condiment and the leaves as a garnish or salad. The leaves orthe entire young plants are popular as a culinary herb and vegetable in Southeast Asia.
The oil extracted from the seeds can be efficient against cough and invigorating.
Ref. No.: 7, 14, 27, 45, 46, 47

Order: Apiales
Family: Apiaceae

Eryngium foetidum
¹º´À¯

LA

Hom paeKH

Chi ronaTH

Chi farang, Hom pom kula, ผักชีฝรัง
่Chi doiជរបារាំង, ជរបន្លាVN

Ngo tay, Ngo gai

Ngò tây, Ngò gai

JP

Ooba-Koendoro,
Togeba-koliandaa

オオバコエンドロ、
トゲバコリアンダーRemarks

Distribution: Tropical America, introduced to East andSoutheast Asia.

Sep. 2007

Life form: Perennial herb. 6-35cm tall.

Vientiane province, Laos

Use: Leaves and flower buds are aromatic and smell like coriander. It is used as a condiment insoups, noodle, and fish dishes.
General info.: It is popular in the local market. It is grown in a home-garden and a village common.
Ref. No.: 7, 14, 27, 45, 46, 47377

Order: Zygnematales
Family: Zygnemataceae

Spirogyra spp.
LA

Thao

À«‰¾

KH
TH

Thao, Phak kai

VN

Tao xoan, Rong nhot

Tảo xoắn, Rong nhớtJP

Aomidoro

アオミドロ

Remarks

Life form: Algae in the fresh water. Fine green line has nobranch and it feels slimy, the possibility of spirogyra ishigh.

Jul. 2008 Vientiane pref., Laos

Use: It is eaten in soup, as well as with Kaeng and Laap.
It is also eaten raw or boiled with Thai salad. It is slimy
like seaweed in texture when put into soup.
It contains vitamin A and calcium. It is used as a
medicine to reduce cholesterol, as an iodine supplement,
and as a laxative. In traditional medicine, it is supposedthat it should not be eaten since it is thought to causeinternal bleeding in elderly people.
General info.: It grows in canals, ditches, and pools. It is

Jun. 2010 Vientiane pref., Laosused as a cooking ingredient only when grown in cleanwater. In the Xaythany district of Vientian prefecture,
Tao taken from a village pond was sold to the market.
There are some villagers who cultivate it in a small pond
for self-consumption during the dry season.
Tao is a plant which photosynthesizes although there are
no leaves, stems and roots.

Nov. 2008 Louang Phrabang, Laos

Ref. No.: 1, 7, 24, 49, 50

378

Order: Cladophorales

Cladophora spp.
LA

Family: CladophoraceaeÄ£Á°È−

Khai phane

KH

.

TH
VN

Rong memRong mềm

JP

Kamoji-shiogusa

カモジシオグサ

Remarks

Distribution: All over the world.
Life form: Algae. 0.1mm in diameter and 1m in length.

Feb. 2010

Louang Phrabang, Laos

Use: Mixed Khai phene and seasonings are extended like a sheet and dried. The dried Khai phane
sheets are fried quickly in oil. It has a crispy texture and flavor and is well matched with boiled rice.
General info.: It starts to elongate in the dry season when the river water level is down and water
becomes clear. Khai phane is a main food source for the Mekong giant catfish (Pangasianodon gigas)
which is an indigenous and endangered species of Mekong river. Khai phane belongs to the plantgroup which photosynthesizes.
Ref. No.: 1, 2, 3, 24, 50

Feb.2010 Louang Phrabang, LaosFeb.2010

Feb.2010 Thin Hong, Louang Phrabang, Laos

Louang Phrabang, LaosFeb.2010 Louang Phrabang, Laos379

Reference1) Ajisaka Tetsuro and Wakana Isamu (2004) Researches of Cladophora glomerata (Linnaeus)
Kuetzing and Spirogyra spp. in Laos. Ecological history project report 2004, p. 338-344.
2) Ajisaka Tetsuro and Wakana Isamu (2005) Utilization research of Cladophora glomerata(freshwater green-macroalgae) as foodsin the Mekong River water system, Laos ( itsrecapitulation and future works). Ecological history project report 2005, p. 273-280.
3) Ajisaka Tetsuro (2004) Nutrient analysis of Cladophora glomerata from the Yahagi River andCladophora spp. from the Mekong River. Yahagigawa research, No. 8:p. 75-84.
4) Akimichi tomoya ed. (2009) An Illustrated Eco-history of the Mekong River Basin, pp. 179. White
Lotus Co. , Ltd.
5) Alny Wissesu et al. (1999) Indigenous Vegetables in Central Thailand.

The dissemination

center of Traditional Medical care in Thailand. (in Thai)
6) Alny Wissesu et al. (1999) Indigenous Vegetables in Southern Thailand.

The dissemination

center of Traditional Medical care in Thailand. (in Thai)
7) Alni Wissesu et al. (1999) Indigenous Vegetables in Northeast Thailand.

The dissemination

center of Traditional Medical care in Thailand. (in Thai)
8) Araki Yuji and Suzuki Kunio (2008) Swampy forest and life style of people in the lake Tonle Sap,
Cambodia. Info MAB, No. 33.
9) Araki Yuji (2008) Vegetation inventory and utilization pattern of plant resource on a tropicalfloodplain - A case study on the floodplain of lake Tonle Sap, Cambodia-.
10) Backer, C. A. and Bakhuizen, R. C. (1963) Flora of Java, N. V. P. Noordhoff Groningen.
11) Bhandari, M. M. (1990) Flora of the Indian desert, rev. MPS Repros.
12) Callaghan, Mike (2004) Lao Plants listed by botanical, common, & regional / Asean names with
Lao names & Lao script.
13) Danell, E. (2011) Dokmai Garden’s Guide to Fruits and Vegetables in Southeast Asian Markets,
White Lotus Co. ,Ltd.
14) The Forest Herbarium, Royal Forest Department (1987-2008) Flora of Thailand.
15) Foundation Flora Malesiana, Flora malesiana.
16) Fujita Wataru (2000) The relationship between man and nature in choice of foods materials: A
case study in northeast Thailand. Southeast asian studies 37(4):p. 556-587.
17) Gardner, S. et al. (2007) A field guide to forest trees of northern Thailand, IUCN.
18) Hotta Mitsuru (1991) Useful plants of the world. Heibonsha Co. ,Ltd.
19) Iwatsuki Kunio (2000) Ferns and fern allies of Japan. Heibonsha Ltd.
20) Kadono Yasuro (1999) Aquatic plants of Japan. Bun-ichi Co. ,Ltd.
21) Laos Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute(2007) NTFP Handbook.
22) Mabberley (2009) Mabberley's Plant-Book, Third edition. Cambridge Univ. Press.
23) Matsushima Ken-ichi et al. (2007) Investigation on wild edible plants and their traditional
knowledge in Chiang Mai and Lamphun in northern Thailand Journal of the faculty ofagriculture Shinshu University Vol. 43 No. 1-2. p.61-72.
24) Nonaka Kenichi (2008) A life in the Vientiane plain - Various environmental use in the village ofrain-fed cropping-. Mekon Co. ,Ltd.
380

25) Osada Takemasa (1979) Illustrated Japanese alien plants. Hokuryukan Ltd.
26) Patcharawadi Bangneet (2008) Indigenous wild vegetables and herbs. First series. (in Thai)
27) Pauline Dy Phon (2000) Dictionary of Plants used in CAMBODIA, Imprimerie Olympic.
28) Qureshi Absar A., et.al. (2010) Feronia limonia-A pathless travelled, Int. Jour. of Res. in
Ayurveda & Pharmacy. Vol.1 Issue1, p.98-106.
29) Satake Yoshisuke et al. (2000) Wild flowers of Japan II Herbaceous plants Choripetalae.
Heibonsha Co. ,Ltd.
30) Shaw, H. K. A. (1985) A dictionary of the flowering plants & ferns, Eighth edition, Student
edition, Cambridge Univ. Press.
31) Sripisut T, et.al. (2011) Chemical constituents from the roots of Feroniella lucida, J Asian Nat
Prod Res. 2011 Jun;13(6):556-60.
32) Thebpatiphat, S., et.al. (1988) Some Constituents of the stems of Piper interruptum Opiz. J. Sci.
Soc. Thailand, 14. 225-231.
33) Whitmore, T. C. (1983) Tree Flora of Malaya, LONGMAN.
34) Yamada Toshihiro et al. (1997) Topography-dependent Spatial Pattern and Habitat Segregationof Sympatric Scaphium Species in a Tropical Rain Forest a Lambir, Sarawak. Tropics 7(1),57-66, 10-30.
35) 落合雪野 (2009) ドメスティケーションの過程と結果をめぐる試論 -東南アジア大陸部のジュズダ
マとハトムギを事例に-, 国立民族学博物館調査報告書, 84:p. 51-70.
36) 中尾佐助 (1966) 栽培植物と農耕の起源, 岩波書店.
37) 熱帯植物研究会 (1991) 熱帯植物要覧, 第 3 版, 養賢堂.
38) 堀田満 (2007) 東アジアでの稲作農耕の起源, Sato Project Pre-News Letter, No. 22.
39) 吉田よし子・吉田昌一訳 (1983) 21 世紀の熱帯植物資源, 楽游書房.
40) 吉田よし子 (1988) 香辛料の民俗学 カレーの木とワサビの木, 中公新書 882, 中央公論社.
41) 吉田よし子 (1997) おいしい花-花の野菜・花の薬・花の酒-, 八坂書房.

42) 吉田よし子・菊池裕子 (2001) 東南アジア市場図鑑
43) 吉田よし子 (2009) マメな豆の話

植物篇, 弘文堂.

世界の豆食文化をたずねて, 平凡社新書 038, 平凡社.

44) 渡辺盛晃 (2009) ラオスの森の恵み, NARC アジア農山漁村ネットワーク.
Web site45) 「ASEAN Tropical Plant Database」 http://211.114.21.20/tropicalplant/index.jsp46) 「BGPlants」 http://bean. bio. chiba-u. jp/bgplants/ylist_main. html47) 「E-Prosea」http://proseanet. org/prosea/e-prosea. php48) 「Flora of China」 http://www. efloras. org/flora_page. aspx?flora_id=149) 「Local Vegetables of Thailand」
http://www. jircas. affrc. go. jp/project/value_addition/Local_Vegetables_of_Thailand_home.
html50) 「野中健一 (2005) ズブズブ班概要, 2004 年度生態史プロジェクト報告書」
http://www. chikyu. ac. jp/ecohistory/annualreport2004/5zubzub2004. pdf51) 「NTFP Handbook」 http://www. nafri. org. la/document/ntfphandbook/eng/52) 「The Plant List」

http://www. theplantlist. org/

381

382

Fungus383

384

Fungus―――――――――――――――

In general, mushrooms are a product from the mountains. It is not typically included as Mizube no
Sachi; however, we often came acrosswild mushrooms during the research at markets. Whenconsidering products that are traded at markets, mushrooms are harvested from nearby villages
and neighborhoods. Therefore, we decided they can be added to Mizube no Sachi.
Identification of fungi could be difficult.

Ideally, detailed observation and testing of color reaction

using chemicals of spores are necessary. However, in this research, most of the species wereidentified through referring field guides and information from the internet. We ask for the reader’s
understanding on this approach.
There are some routes of supplying mushrooms in Mekong river basin markets.

One isfactory-produced ones which are often packed in plastic containers. The packaged mushrooms are
only found in supermarkets that have refrigerators. Dried mushrooms such as Auricularia

auricular, A. polytricha, Lentinus edodes are often sighted in dried goods specialty shops. Thoseare fungi that are produced in China and Thailand and have been imported.
Another route is local farm-raised mushrooms. These mushrooms such as Pleurotus ostreatus,

Volvariella volcacea, Lentinus polychrous are produced at farms near markets and often soldfresh. Lentinus edodes is not widely produced currently, but a few farms make it. Pleurotus

ostreatus production method has recently gained more popularity, and it is said to be contributing inbringing income to the farms. Shapes, sizes, and colors appear different. This may be due to adifference in breed and culture media.
The other route is the wild collection, which is the most appropriate as to be Mizube no
Sachi. There are certain people who prefer wild mushrooms over cultivated ones. Depending on
the season, especially beginning of the dry season which is September through March, various
mushrooms are seen at markets. Most popular ones are Termitomyces spp., Boletaceae spp.,

Russula spp., Tricholomataceae sp.. Other
than those, Schizophyllum commune is used
for making broth, Astraeus hygrometricus is
put in soup to enjoy the texture of its springy
outer skin, and many other mushrooms areused.
On the other hand, there are many cases offood poisoning by mushroom. Some varietiesof Russula spp. have a poison that can befatal. Therefore, use of mushrooms should bedone with caution, but despite the fact, people
continue to enjoy the flavorful mushrooms.

30 Jun. 2011 Pakse, Laos

385

Order: Agaricales

Pleurotus ostreatus

Family: Pleurotaceae

LA
KH

Psat、Psat mayuraTH

Het paohu

VN

Nam so (nam bao ngu)

Nấm sò (nấm bào ngư)JP

Hira-take

ヒラタケ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is one of cultivated mushrooms that are commonly tradedin markets in Indo-China. Only farm-raised ones are found10 Jun. 2007 Vientiane, Laosin markets. It has become a popular produce for farmers since it is grown easily by using hay tomake the breeding bed. The fruitbody appears different depending on the variety as well as the
structure of the breeding bed. Its Cambodian name, “Psat”, means mushroom. It was called “Psatmayura”, in Ratanakiri, Cambodia.

17 Feb. 2010

Pakse New Market, Pakse, Laos

17 Feb. 2010

Pakse New Market, Pakse, Laos

17 Feb. 2010

386

Pakse New Market, Pakse, Laos

Order: Agaricales
Family: Pleurotaceae

Lentinus polychrous
LA
KH

Het bot，Het kadang、Het
khao
Psat chhu, Psat sway, Psat ta
woa

TH

Het lom

VN

Nam so(nam bao ngu)

Nấm sò (nấm bào ngư)JP

Kegawa-take

ケガワタケ類

Remarks

Basic Information
This type of mushroom is grown widely around Indo-China
region,andsomespecies

are

often

found

14 Feb. 2010 Lamsaktay Market,
Champasak, Laosinmarkets. However, it is difficult to identify those species. A
few wild mushrooms can be found at markets, but in thislisting, we put cultivated variety of L. polychrous as a typicaltype.

In Laos the, following species are grown:

L. squarrosulus (Laos; Het khon khao, Thai; Het khon khao),L. strigosus (Laos; Het phai、Het hou khouang), L. sajor-caju(= Pleurotus sajor-caju) (Laos; Het tin pok, Thai; Het nan fa),

15 Feb. 2010 Savan Sai Market,
Savannakhet, Laos

L. volemus (Laos; Het phan). Its Cambodian name, “Psat chhu”, means a mushroom growing on atree. “Psat sway”, means a mushroom growing on a Mango tree.
Use
Both wild and cultivated mushrooms of this type become very hard when grown too big. It is too
hard to eat this way, but people still use it because of its good taste, by chopping it finely. It is usedin variety of dishes such as stir-fry or soup.

387

15 Feb. 2010

Savan Sai Market, Savannakhet,
Laos

15 Feb. 2010

Savan Sai Market, Savannakhet,
Laos

17 Feb. 2010

Pakse New Market, Champasak,
Laos

20 Feb. 2010

Dong Makai Market, Vientiane,
Laos

20 Feb. 2010

Thakhek, Laos

20 Feb. 2010

Thakhek, Laos

10 Jun. 2007

Vientiane, Laos

Lentinus sp.

388

Order: Agaricales
Family: Pleurotaceae

Lentinus edodesLA

Het hom

KH

Psat kliem, Psat kumauTHHet hom,Hed horm, Hed hom
sot

VN

Nam huong(nam dong co)Nấm hương (nấm đông cô)JPShii-take

シイタケ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is sighted occasionally in markets in Indo-China. It does

20 Sep. 2009

Mae Sai Market, Chiang
Rai, Thai

20 Sep. 2009

Mae Sai Market, Chiang
Rai, Thainot look very appealing due to its small size. This isbelieved because of a lack of nutrients in its breeding
bed. Although it is said to be native and distributed inSoutheast Asia, we have not been able to find wild Lentinus

edodes in the markets.
Cambodia is dried.

Most of this mushroom sold in

Fresh ones appear occasionally inmarkets in Phnom Penh, but these are grown in China andimported via Vietnam.

389

Order: Agaricales

Schizophyllum commune
LA

Family: Pleurotaceae

Het kab kae, Het tin kab kae,Het bee, Het khao tok

KHTH

Het huVN
JP

Suehiro-take

スエヒロタケ

RemarksUse
It is used as making soup stock. This mushroom is very

09 Sep. 2007

Vientiane, Laos

hard, so it is not eaten as it is. Its Lao name, “Het kab kae”,
means gecko (kab kae) mushroom (het), and “Het tin kabkae” means, “mushroom that gecko eats”.

10 Jun. 200708 Nov. 2008

Vientiane, Laos

10 Jun. 2007

Tha Heua Market, Louang Phabang,
Laos

390

Vientiane, Laos

Order: Agaricales
Family: Tricholomataceae

Tricholomataceae Gen. sp.
LA
KH

Psat kanchoun

TH
VN

Nam dui ga

Nấm đùi gàJP

Shimeji

シメジの 1 種

Remarks

Basic Information
There are records from Laos that says Trichostoma crissum
is called Het tin het, Het chan, Het tab tao khao, and Het
tin pha. In Cambodia, this mushroom is said to taste good
but is expensive.

391

25 Jul. 2010 Warin Chamrap Market,
Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand

Order: Agaricales

Termitomyces spp.

Family: TricholomataceaeLA

Het pouak, Het pouk, Hettab, Het pouak tab

KH

Psat damboukTH

Het konVN

Nam moiNấm mối

JP

Shiroari-take

シロアリタケ類

Remarks

Basic Information
Its fruiting body appears from mycelium which isdeveloped inside termite mounds. In Laos, twelve species

24 Jul. 2010 Pakse New Market, Pakse,Laosof Termitomyces spp. are known. Each species has a different appearance. Many of them areedible

while

there

are

some

that

peopleavoid

becausetheyaresupposedtobepoisonous. Termitomyces spp. is one of most popular among wild mushrooms, along with

Boletaceae Gen. spp., and Russula spp..
T. arbiceps (Thai; Het kon), T. aurantiacus (Thai; Het kon), T. microcarpus （Laos; Het tab kai noi）,
T. robustus （Laos; Het pouak lao, Het pouak chik, Het pouak phane）,
T. albuminosus （Laos; Het kone）, T. clypeatus （Laos; Het tab chik, Thai; Het kon）, T. eurrhisus（Het tab）, T. fuliginosus（Thai; Het kon）, T. globules（Laos; Het tab, Het pouak）,

T. schimperi (Laos; Het pouak tab nhai）, T. striatus（Laos; Het tab dong, Thai; Het kon）,
T. tyleranus（Laos; Het pouak khao）.

24 Jul. 2010

Lomsak Tay Market, Pakse, Laos

24 Jul. 2010 Lomsak Tay Market, Pakse, Laos
Termitomyces microcarpus

392Order: Agaricales

Amanita spp.

Family: AmanitaceaeLA

Het la ngok, Het la ngak, Het
meuak

KH

Psat kompingdoung

TH
VN

Mot dang nam doc (nguy Một dạng nấm đôc (nguy
hiem)
hiểm)

JP

Tamago-take

タマゴタケ類

Remarks

Basic Information
Many of the mushrooms of Amanita spp. are fatally

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thai

poisonous and only a few species are collected as food. Examples of edible ones are: A. caesarea（Laos; Het la ngok daeng）, A. hemibapha（Laos; Het la ngok leuang）, A. princes（Laos; Het la ngokkhao）A. vaginata（Laos; Het khi ka deuane, Thai; Het kai）.
Its Cambodian name, “Psat kompingdoung”, means buds of coconut palm tree.

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thai

10 Jun. 2007

10 Jun. 2007

Vientiane, Laos

393

Vientiane, Laos

Order: Agaricales

Volvariella volcacea

Family: PluteaceaeLA

Het fang

KH

Psat chombaungTH

Het fang

VN

Nam romNấm Rơm

JP

Fukuro-take

フクロタケ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is cultivated widely by making a mushroom bed with

10 Jun. 2007

Vientiane, Laos

straw. This mushroom and Pleurotus ostreatus, Panus spp. can be called three most grown fungi in
Indo-China, because they are seen at almost any market in the region. Therefore, it is naturally
assumed that these mushrooms are important ingredients of most popular dishes. Its Cambodianname, “Psat chombaung”, means “mushroom of straw mounds”. English name: Straw mushroom.

15 Feb. 2010

20 Sep. 2009

Savan Sai Market, Savannakhet,
Laos

20 Sep. 2009

Mae Sai Market, Chiang Rai, Thailand

394

Mae Sai Market, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Order: Boletales
Family: Boletaceae

Boletus edulisLA

Het pheung dam, Het tab tao

KHTH

Het taitaodam

VN
JP

Yamadori-take

ヤマドリタケ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is often seen during the dry season in Thailand andLaos. It looks like a few different species are mixed in one
basket because they have a slightly different appearance. It
is not clear how many species are mixed together.

395

14 Feb. 2010

Luk2 Market, Thakhek,
LaosOrder: Boletales

Boletus sp.1

Family: Boletaceae

LA
KH
TH

Het hou

VN
JP

Amiashi-iguchi

アミアシイグチ(仮称)Remarks

Basic Information
This mushroom was observed in Southern Laos in
September. It is one of Boletus sp.. It turns dark when

19 Feb. 2010

Thakhek , Laos

cooked, and is often stir-fried with pork to be served.

19 Feb. 2010

Thakhek , Laos

19 Feb. 2010

Thakhek , Laos

20 Feb. 2010

396

Thakhek , Laos

Order: Boletales

Boletus sp.2
LA

Het nam ma

KH

Psat chombo

Family: Boletaceae

TH
VN
JP

Tsuchi-iguchi

ツチイグチ(仮称)

Remarks

Basic Information
It has thick and crisp flesh, but also a earthy flavor. It ispreferred for stewing. Its Lao name, “Het nam ma”, means

14 Feb. 2010

Luk2 Market, Thakhek,
Laos“Areca palm mushroom”. Its Cambodian name, “Psat chombo”, is the name of a tree, and they use
this mushroom as medicinal and aphrodisiac.

23 Sep. 2009

Mouang Keo Market, Houay Xai, Laos

19 Sep. 200924 Jul. 2010 Lomsak Tay Market, Pakse, Laos

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thai

397

Order: Boletales

Boletaceae Gen. spp.

Family: Boletaceae

LA
KH
TH

Het phaan

VN
JP

Iguchi

イグチ類

Remarks

Basic Information

Boletaceae Gen. spp. are important edible wild mushrooms

14 Feb. 2010

in Indo-China peninsula. Many seasonable varieties are

Luk2 Market, Thakhek,
Laosfound in markets around the region. There are records from Laos about Boletus edulis, Boletus

chrysenteroides (Laos; Het pheung leuang), and Boletus chromape (Laos; Het pheung tin
leuang). Many other species are being sold.

14 Feb. 2010

Luk2 Market, Thakhek, Laos

10 Jun. 2007

14 Feb. 2010

Vientiane, Laos

398

Luk2 Market, Thakhek, Laos

Order: Russulales

Russula delica
LA

Family: Russulaceae

Het khai khao, Het lom khao

KH
TH

Het lom, Het takai

VN
JP

Shirohatsu

シロハツRemarks

Basic Information
The peak season of this mushroom is September inNorthern Thailand, and many people go to the mountains

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun,
Thailandto pick it. It is often stir-fried with meat or put in soup. It is called, “Het khao khai”, in Attapeu
region in Laos, which means “egg white mushroom”.

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thailand

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thailand

10 Jun. 2007

399

Vientiane, Laos

Order: Russulales
Family: Russulaceae

Russula spp.
LA

Het din

KH
TH
VN
JP

Benitake

ベニタケ類

Remarks

Basic Information
Within Russula spp., a few more species are used as food

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun,
Thailandother than Russula delica. However, many of them have
similar appearance and it is difficult to confirm if adesignated name and a fruiting body matches. Dependingonthecountry,somespeciesareregardedaspoisonous. Therefore, identification of Russula spp. needs
to be organized by a specialist. There are some species
that are fatally poisonous, so its consumption without
proper identification should be avoided. There are manycases of serious poisoning from this mushroom. R. lepida(Laos; Het daeng, Het nam mak), R. densifolia

08 Nov. 2008

Tha Heua Market, Louang
Phabang, Laos

(Laos; Het than noi, poisonous in Taiwan), R. alboareolata (Laos; Het khao peng), R.a cyanoxantha(Laos; Het na mouang), R. emetic (poisonous in Japan and Taiwan, Laos; Het khai lang khiou), R.

foetens (poisonous in Japan and Taiwan, Laos; Het khai), R. nigricans (Thai; Het taan), R. virescens(Laos; Het na ngoua).

400

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thai

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thai

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thai

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thai

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thai

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun, Thai

401

Order: Russulales
Family: Russulaceae

Russula aeruginea
LA
KH
TH

Het khon

VN
JP
Remarks

Basic Information
It is popular in Northern Thailand because of its taste. It

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun,
Thailand19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun,
Thailandwas washed and sold on a big plate.

402

Order: Russulales
Family: Russulaceae

Lactarius volemus
LA
KH
TH

Het hart

VN
JP

Chichitake

チチタケ

Remarks

Basic Information
It was spotted only in Northern Thailand.

403

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun,
Thailand19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun,
ThailandOrder: Gomphales
Family: Gomphaceae

Gomphaceae Gen. sp.
LA

Het nouath

KH
TH
VN
JP

Houkitake

ホウキタケの 1 種

Remarks

Basic Information
This type of mushroom is rarely seen in Indo-China
Peninsula. It was found only once in Northern Thailand in
September. Its Lao name, “Het nouath”, means “beard
mushroom”.

404

19 Sep. 2009

Thung Yao, Lamphun,
ThailandOrder: Auriculariales

Auricularia polytrichaLA

Het hou nou dam, Het hou
ling,Katan,

KH

Psat trouchea kondol

Family: Auriculariaceae

TH
VN

Nam meoNấm mèo

JP

Arage-kikurage

アラゲキクラゲ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is less often seen than A. auricular in markets.

10 Jun. 2007

Vientiane, Laos

It is said to be bred in beds, but we could not confirm details on that method. We also heard that it
is cultivated by inoculating logs with mycelium. In the wild, it is found growing on fallen or
semi-dead trees. Its Lao name, “Het hou nou dam”, means “black rat’s ear mushroom”, and “Hethou ling” means “monkey’s ear mushroom”. Its Cambodian name, “Psat trouchea kondol”, alsomeans “rat’s ear mushroom”.

20 Feb. 2010

Thakhek , Laos

20 Feb. 2010

405

Thakhek , Laos

Order: Auriculariales

Auricularia auricula

Family: AuriculariaceaeLA

Het hou nou daeng,

KH

Psat trouchea kondolTH

Het hu nu

VN

Nam meoNấm mèo

JP

Kikurage

キクラゲ

Remarks

Basic Information
It is commonly found in markets since it is a popular

10 Jun. 2007

Vientiane, Laos

ingredient of stir-fry and soup dishes. Both cultivated andwild ones are sold, but cultivated ones are seen more often. In Laos, similar types of Auricularia

auricular are collectively called, “Het sanoum (hou nou)”. Other than the term, and depending on
the varieties, they call it as following:

A. delicate (Het hou nou hang pheung), A. fuscosuccinia (Hethou ling), A. tennus (Het hou nou khao). Its Lao name means “Red rat’s ear mushroom”. In
Cambodia, it is not differentiated from A. polytricha. English name: Mouse-ear mushroom.

08.Nov. 2008

Louang Phabang, Laos

26, Sep., 2009406

Vientiane, Laos

Order: Sclerodermatales
Family: Astraeaceae

Astraeus hygrometricusLA

Het pho, Het tob, Het poh
faai, Het poh nang

KH
TH

Het toup

VN
JP

Tsuchi-guri

ツチグリ

Remarks

Basic Information
There are two types of Astraeus hygrometricus; one has a

30 Jun. 2011

Attapeu, Laos

11 Jun. 2007

Vientiane, Laosdarker outer layer and the other has a lighter layer. In
Laos, darker ones are called, “Het pho faai”, meaning“cotton”, and the lighter ones are called, “Het pho nang”,
which means “skin”.

Even after its inside had turned into

spores, it is put in stir-fry or soup to be eaten. It becomes
available in June through September.

407

Reference
今関六也 ほか 編著（1998）日本のきのこ（山渓カラー名鑑）．山と渓谷社．
周文能・張東桂（2005）野菇図鑑（台湾四百種常見大型真菌図鑑）．遠流出版事業股份有限公司．
「ランナー・タイ、北タイのキノコ」 http://lannathai.nomaki.jp/kinoko/kinoko.htm

408

Index409

410

Index to Scientific name
Varanus nebulosus

Reptiles and Amphibians
A
Ahaetulla nasuta
Ahaetulla prasina
Amphiesma stolatum

Xenochrophis piscator3030

Freshwater Fish

31

C
Calotes versicolor
Chrysopelea ornata
Colubridae
Cuora amboinensis
Cyclemys dentate

A

23

Acantopsis
Amblypharyngodon chulabhornae
Anabas testudineus
Anguilla marmorata

23

B

21,26
31
29

D
Dendrelaphis pictus
Dryocalamus davisonii
Duttaphrynus melanostictus

37

Bagarius bagarius
Bagarius yarrelli
BagridaeBangana behri
Barbonymus altus
Barbonymus gonionotus
Belodontichthys truncatus
Betta
Betta smaragdina
Betta splendens
Boesemania microlepis
Boraras micros
Brachirus harmandi
Brachygobius mekongensis

37

C

38

Channa gachua
Channa lucius
Channa micropeltes
Channa striata
Channidae
Chitala blanci
Chitala ornata
Cirrhinus
Cirrhinus cirrhosus
Cirrhinus molitorella
Cirrhinus ornatipinnis
Cirrhinus siamensis
Clarias batrachus
Clarias gariepinus
Clarias macrocephalus
Clariidae
Clupeichthys aesarnensis
Clupisoma sinensis
Cosmochilus harmandi
Cyclocheilichthys
Cyclocheilichthys apogon
Cyclocheilichthys armatus
Cyclocheilichthys enoplos
Cyclocheilichthys repasson
Cyprinidae
Cyprinus carpio

30
31
32

E
Enhydris plumbea

29,30

F
Fejervarya limnocharis

21,33,34

G
Geoemydidae

23

H
Hoplobatrachus chinensis
Hoplobatrachus rugulosus
Hylarana
Hylarana erythraea
Hylarana guentheri
Hylarana macrodactyla
Hylarana nigrovittata
Hylarana taipehensis

34,36
21,34

38,39
39
39

K
Kalophrynus interlineatus
Kaloula pulchra

48,49
46

L
Limnonectes kuhlii

40

M
Malayemys subtrijuga
Manouria impressa
Megacephalus
Microhyla berdmorei
Microhyla fissipes

21,23
25
44
48
48,49

O
Occidozyga lima
Odorrana livida
Oligodon purpurascens
Oligodon

21,42
41
31
31

P
Pelochelys cantorii
Physignathus cocincinus
Platysternon megacephalum
Polypedates leucomystax
Polypedates megacephalus

25
27
24
44
45

S
Sylvirana lateralis

95,96
61
138
158
117
117
102,105
62
63,64
64
108
140
140,141
140,141
173
159
154
174
148
147
150
150,151
148,150,151
59,60
60
66
66
67
66
67
119
118
118,119
118
158
172
67
68,69
69
69
68
69
101
70

D
Danio roseus
Dasyatis laosensis
Datnioides undecimradiatus
Dermogenys siamensis
Devario gibber

41

T
Testudinidae
Trionychidae

31

30

B
Boiga multomaculata

21,28

X

25
25

V

411

160
57
175
122
160

Index to Scientific nameDischerodontus ashmeadi

Opsarius pulchellus
Oreochromis niloticus
Oryzias mekongensis
Osphronemidae
Osphronemus exodon
Osteochilus
Osteochilus hasseltii
Osteochilus lini
Osteochilus melanopleurus
Osteochilus microcephalus
Osteochilus waandersii
Oxyeleotris marmorata

161

E
Esomus longimanus
Esomus metallicus

71,78
71,78

G
Gambusia affinis
Gyrinocheilus pennocki

124
94

H
Hampala dispar
Hampala macrolepidota
Helicophagus leptorhynchus
Hemibagrus
Hemibagrus filamentus
Hemibagrus nemurus
Hemibagrus spilopterus
Hemibagrus wyckii
Hemibagrus wyckioides
Hemiculterella macrolepis
Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
Hypsibarbus lagleri
Hypsibarbus malcolmi
Hypsibarbus pierrei

73,80
73,74,80,81
171
102,105
102

P

103

128

Pangasianodon
Pangasianodon gigas
Pangasianodon hypophthalmus
Pangasius
Pangasius conchophilus
Pangasius larnaudii
Pangasius macronema
Parachela siamensis
Parambassis siamensis
Piaractus brachypomus
Polynemus aquilonaris
Poropuntius laoensis
Poropuntius normani
Pristolepis fasciata
Probarbus jullieni
Pseudolais pleurotaenia
Pseudomystus siamensis
Pterygoplichthys disjunctivus
Puntioplites falcifer
Puntioplites proctozysron
PuntiusPuntius aurotaeniatus
Puntius brevis
Puntius jacobusboehlkei
Puntius masyai
Puntius orphoides
Puntius partipentazona
Puntius rhombeus
Puntius stoliczkanus

128

P

131

Rasbora aurotaenia
Rasbora borapetensis
Rasbora dorsinotata
Rasbora dusonensis
Rasbora paviana
Rasbora rubrodorsalis
Rasbora spilocerca
Rasbora steineri

102
103
103
161
75,82
162
163
162

K
Kryptopterus
Kryptopterus apogon
Kryptopterus geminus

109
109
109

L
Labeo
Labeo chrysophekadion
Labeo pierrei
Labeo rohita
Labiobarbus leptocheila
Labiobarbus siamensis
Laides longibarbis
Lepidocephalichthys berdmorei
Lepidocephalichthys furcatus
Lepidocephalichthys hasselti

76,83
76,83
76,83
83,76
163
164
172
97
97
97

M
Macrognathus circumcinctus
Macrognathus semiocellatus
Macrognathus siamensis
Mastacembelidae
Mastacembelus
Mastacembelus armatus
Mastacembelus favus
Monopterus albus
Mystacoleucus lepturus
Mystacoleucus marginatus
MystusMystus albolineatus
Mystus atrifasciatus
Mystus mysticetus
Mystus singaringan

128,130
128,130
128,129

129,131
125
77,84
77,84
105
105
106

Scaphiodonichthys acanthopterus
Scaphognathops bandanensis
Schistura
Schistura ephelis
Schistura porthos
Sikukia gudgeri
Syncrossus
Synrossus helodes

106
133,134
58
58,59

O
Ompok bimaculatus
Onychostoma gerlachi

135
123
140
174
85
85
85
85
86
86
137
116
113,115
115
116
116
116
116
165
132
101
173
166
166
134
167
171
107
120
87
87
88
88
89
89
167
89
89
89
89
91
90
92
92
93
90,91
90,93
168

S

104,105

N
Nandus oxyrhynchus
Notopteridae
Notopterus notopterus

165

110
164

412

168
169
100
100
100
169
98
99

Index to Scientific nameT
Tenualosa thibaudeaui
Tetraodon cambodgiensis
Tetraodon cochinchinensis
Tetraodon suvattii
Tetraodon turgidus
Tetraodontidae
Thynnichthys thynnoides
Tor tambroides
Trichopodus
Trichopodus microlepis
Trichopodus pectoralis
Trichopodus trichopterus
Trichopsis
Trichopsis schalleri
Trichopsis vittata

121

Cercotmentus
Chondracris rosea
Choroedocus
Cicadidae
Citrus hystrix
Clematogaster
Conocephalus maculatus
Copris siamensis
Copris sinicus
Corduliidae
Coreidae
Corydalidae
Crocothemis servilia servilia
Crytocanthacris tatarica
Crytotrachelus
Cybister
Cybister limbatus
Cybister rugosus
Cybister sugillatus
Cybister tripunctatus

121

D

159
155,156
155,156
155,156
155
155
170
170
142
144
144
142,143
140
145,146
145,146

W
Wallago attu

112

X
Xenentodon
Xenentodon cancila

Y
Yasuhikotakia
Yasuhikotakia caudipunctata
Yasuhikotakia eos
Yasuhikotakia lecontei
Yasuhikotakia modesta

Digitonthophagus bonasus
Diplacodes nebulosa
Diplacodes trivialis
Dorysthenes walker
Drosicha
Ducetia curciata
Dytiscidae
Dytiscidea

98
98,99
99
98,99
98

219
197,198
201
203
197
222,224
195,196
233
233
184
209
221
190
197,200
247,248239,240,241,242
239
241
241
241
233
189
188
245
211
196
242
215

E
Epophthalmia
Euconocephalus gracilis
Eyprepocnemis

Insects
A
Acheta domestica
AcridaAcrididae
Aeshnidae
Aiolophus thalassinus tamulus
Anax guttatus
AnomalaAnomala antique
Apis
Apis dorsata
Apis florea
Apis mellifera
Apogonia
Apogonia cribricollis
Appasus
Atractomorpha179,194200

Gampsocleis
Gastrimargus marmoratus
Gomphidae
Gomphidia perakensis
Gryllidae
Gryllotalpa orientalis
Gryllus bimaculatus
Gymnogryllus vietnamensis

197
184
200
186
235,236
235,236
227
227

201
195
201
184
187
192
191
194
192,194

H

227

Heliocopris bucephalus
Hieroglyphus banian
Holochlora venosa
Holotrichia
Hoplocerambyx spinicornis
Hydrobasileus croceus
Hydrophilidae
Hydrophilus
Hydrophilus bilineatus cashimirensis
Hydrophilus cavisternum
Hypomeces squamosus

227
235
236
215,216200
245
179,252
188
188
188

229
201
196
235
245
187
239,242
242,243
242,243
242,243
246

I

190

Ictinogomphus decoratus melaenops

C
Calephorus vitalisi
Catantops pinguis
Catharsius birmanensis
Cerambycidae

196

G

B
Batocera davdis
Bombyx moriBrachydiplax
Brachydiplax chalybea chalybea
Brachydiplax farinosa
Brachythemis contaminate

185

186

L

201

Laccotrephes
Laccotrephes grossus
Laccotrephes maculatus

201
233
245

413

218
217,219
218,219

Index to Scientific name
Lepidiota
Lepidiota bimaculata
Leptocorisa
Lethocerus indicus
Liatongus rhadamistus
Libellulidae
Locusta migratoria

Sternocera
Sternocera aeguisignata
Sternocera ruficornis

235
236
208

234

Tagasta
Tarbinskiellus portentosus
Teleogryllus
Teleogryllus occipitalis
Termitidae
Tessaratoma quadrata
Tholymis tillarga
Trilophidia annulata
Trithemis aurora
Trithemis pallidinervis

204

V

215
216

Valanga nigricornis
Vespa
Vespa affinis

216

X

190

Xenocatantops humilis
Xylotrupes gideon tonkinensis
Xystrocera globose

233
184
201
184
204
195
195
203,204,205

N
Naucoridae
Naucoris
Naucoris scutellaris
Neurothemis fluvia
Neurothemis tullia tullia

188

O
Odonata
Oecophylla smaragdina
Omphisa
OnitisOnthophagus
Onthophagus armatus
Onthophagus recticornutus
Onthophagus sagittarius
Onthophagus seniculus
Orthetrum
Orthetrum glaucum
Orthetrum pruinosum neglectum
Orthetrum sabina sabina
Orthetrum triangulare
Orthoptera
Oxya japonica japonica

192
192,194
194
220
206
189
202
189
189
202
225
225
202
237
245

250
234

Snails and Bivalves

231,232,233,234

B

234

Brotia binodosa
Brotia manningi

234
234

272
271,272

C

234

CamaenaCorbiculaCorbicula fluminea f. insularis
Corbicula moreletiana
Cyclophoridae
Cyclophorus

187
187
187
188
187
197

273,274
278,279
279
279
261
261,262,263

E

197,199

Ensidens ingallsiana

276

F

189

Filopaludina sumatrensis
Filopaludina sumatrensis subsp.
Filopaludina maekoki
Filopaludina martensi cambodjensis
Filopaludina martensi

234
201
197,198
202
204

269
269
269
269
269

H

204

Hemiplecta
Hemiplecta distincta
Hyriopsis delaportei

189
231
202

274
273,274
276

I

196

Idiopoma dissimilis
Idiopoma ingallsiana

197

269
270

M

219

Mekongia

249

270

P

190

Physunio cambodiensis
Pila
Pila polita
Pilsbryconcha exilis
Pomacea canaliculata
Pseudodon vondembuschianus chaperi

190

S
Saturniidae
Sinictinogomphus clavatus
Sphingidae

200

222

R
Ranatra longipes
Rhynchophorus ferrugineus
Rhyothemis plutonia
Rhyothemis triangularis

244

184

P
Pantala flavescens
Paracopris punctulatus
Patanga luteicornis
Patanga succincta
Phlaeoba antennata
Platylomia bocki
Pomponia linearis
Potamarcha congener
Proagoderus mouhoti
Pternoscirta
Pyrgocorypha
Pyrgomorphidae244T

212,215

M
Macromiidae
Macrosemia tonkiniana
Mecopoda elongata
Mecopoda elongate
Meimuna subviridissima
Microcopris reflexus
Muda

244

254
186
255

414

276
264,266266
276
264,271276

Index to Scientific name
Pseudodon
ellipticusvondembuschianus

B

276

S
Scabies crispate

277

T
Tarebia granifera
Tegillarca granosa
Thiara scabra
Thiaridae
Trochotaia trochoides

271,272259
271,272271
268,270

U
Uniandra
Unionidae

267,271

B
289

E
Esanthelphusa

292

H
Haplopelma
Haplopelma longipes
Heterothelphusa beauvoisi

293
293
292

M
Macrobrachium rosenbergii

285,287

P
Palaemonidae
Parathelphusidae
Pilosamon
Pudaengon hinpoon

285
289
292
292

S
Sayamia germaini
Sayamia melanodactylus
Somanniathelphusa
Somanniathelphusa lacuvita

363
360
335
319
312
347
374
336
313
364
374
364
344
354
376
326
349
379
357
342
331
315
309
327
377
328
328
342
319
320
324

D

292

334

Delonix regia
Dioscorea alata
Dioscorea alata
Dioscorea bulbifera
Dioscorea bulbifera
Dioscorea esculenta
Dioscorea esculenta
Diospyros decandra
Diospyros sp.
Diplazium esculentum

335

E

374

318

Eichhornia crassipes
Eleocharis dulcis var. tuberose
Eryngium foetidum
Etlingera elatior

361

F

361

376

Feroniella lucida
Ficus sp.
Ficus sp.
Flacourtia indica

329

G

340

Garcinia cochinchinensis
Garcinia oliveri
Gardenia obtusifolia

292
290,292
292

PlantsA
Acacia concinna
Acacia pennata subsp. Insuavis
Acmella paniculata
Aegle marmelos
Aganonerion polymorphum
Alpinia galangal
Amaranthus spinosus
Amaranthus tricolor
Amomum sp.
Amorphophallus paeoniifolius
Anethum graveolens
Antidesma ghaesembilla
Artocarpus integer
Arytera litoralis
Azadirachta indica

314

Caesalpinia mimosoides
Calamus tenuis
Camellia sinensis
Capsella bursa-pastoris
Careya arborea
Castanopsis sp.
Ceiba pentandra
Centella asiatica
Cissus hastate
Citrus hystrix
Cladophora spp.
Cleome gynandra
Coccinia grandis
Codiaeum variegatum
Coix lacryma-jobi var. ma-yuen
Colocasia esculenta
Connarus cochinchinensis
Coriandrum sativum
Cratoxylum cochinchinense
Cratoxylum formosum
Cucurbita maxima
Curcuma longa
Curcuma sp.
Cyclea barbata

277
275,278

Other invertebrates
Brachyura

314

C

V
Viviparidae

BambooBambusa
Barringtonia acutangula
Basella alba
Bauhinia variegate
Boesenbergia rotunda
Borassus flabellifer
Bouea oppositifolia
Brassica rapa

349
366

318
309

352
348

415

336
311
311
311
311
311
311
362
362
303
316
316
377
320
350
340
341
334
333
333
365

Index to Scientific name
Glinus oppositifolius
Gnaphalium affine
Gnaphalium sp.

Piper sp.
Polygonum odoratum
Portulaca oleracea

359
374
374

H
Hibiscus sabdariffa
Houttuynia cordata
Hydrocotyle verticillata
Hydrolea zeylanica

375

Radermachera ignea
Raphanus sativus
Rhapis cochinchinensis

370

S

354
307

331

Sagittaria guayanensis subsp. lappula
Salacia chinensis
Sauropus androgynus
Sauropus androgynus
Scaphium macropodum
Schleichera oleosa
Senna siamea
Sesbania grandiflora
Sesbania javanica
Solanum capsicoides
Solanum stramoniifolium
Solanum torvum
Solanum violaceum
Spirogyra spp.
Spondias dulcis
Spondias pinnata
Stellaria media
Swertia japonica
Syzygium antisepticum

368

T

358

365

Tamarindus indica
Telosma cordata
Terminalia chebula
Tiliacora triandra
Tiliacora triandra
Trapa natans
Trevesia palmate

357

U

341
356

Uvaria rufa
Uvaria sp.

351

W

323

Wolffia globosa

314
373
373
327

K
Kaempferia sp.

321

L
Lapsanastrum apogonoides
Lasia spinosa
Leptonychia heteroclite
Leucaena leucocephala
Limnocharis flava
Limnophila aromatic
Limonia acidissima
Ludwigia adscendens
Luffa cylindrical

374
310
355
337
308
367
350
345
343

M
Manihot esculenta
Markhamia stipulate
Melientha suavis
Microdesmis caseariifolia
Momordica charantia f. abbreviate
Momordica cochinchinensis
Monochoria hastate
Monochoria vaginalis
Morinda citrifolia
Moringa oleifera
Morus alba
Muntingia calabura
Murraya koenigiiMusa sp.

332
343
344
317
317

N
Nasturtium officinale
Nelumbo nucifera
Nephelium hypoleucum
Neptunia oleracea
Nymphaea lotus
Nymphaea rubra

356

Yushania

325

Z

353

Zanthoxylum ailanthoides
Zanthoxylum myriacanthum
Zanthoxylum rhetsa
Zanthoxylum sp.
Zingiber officinale

337
304
304

370
374
313
308
326
330
314
355
353
338
338
339
371
372
371
372
378
347
348
374
359
346
339
366
345
324
314
346
375
305
305
310
314
352
352
352
352
322

367
374
369
315

Fungus

311

A

P
Passiflora foetida
Peperomia pellucid
Phyllanthus acidus
Phyllanthus emblica
Piper interruptum
Piper sarmentosum

359

Y

O
Ocimum tenuiflorum
Oenanthe javanica
Oroxylum indicum
Oryza sativa
Ottelia alismoides

360

R

I
Indocalamus
Ipomoea aquatic
Ipomoea batatas
Irvingia malayana

307

Amanita
Amanita caesarea
Amanita hemibapha
Amanita princes
Amanita vaginatava
Astraeus hygrometricus
Auricularia auricula

332
306
329
330
307
306

416

393
393
393
393
393
385,407406

Index to Scientific name
Auricularia auricular
Auricularia delicate
Auricularia fuscosuccinia
Auricularia polytricha
Auricularia tennus

385
406
406
385,405406

B
Boletaceae
Boletaceae spp
Boletus
Boletus chromape
Boletus chrysenteroides
Boletus edulis

398
385
396,397
398
398
395,398

G
Gomphaceae

404

L
Lactarius volemus
Lentinus edodes
Lentinus polychrous
Lentinus sajor-caju
Lentinus squarrosulus
Lentinus strigosus
Lentinus volemus

403
385,389385,387
387
387
387
387

P
Pleurotus ostreatus

385,386,394

R
RussulaRussula aeruginea
Russula alboareolata
Russula delica
Russula densifolia
Russula emetic
Russula foetens
Russula lepida
Russula nigricans
Russula virescens
Russulaa cyanoxantha

385,400
402
400
399,400
400
400
400
400
400
400
400

S
Schizophyllum commune

385,390T
Termitomyces
Termitomyces albuminosus
Termitomyces arbiceps
Termitomyces aurantiacus
Termitomyces clypeatus
Termitomyces eurrhisus
Termitomyces fuliginosus
Termitomyces globules
Termitomyces microcarpus
Termitomyces robustus
Termitomyces schimperi
Termitomyces striatus
Termitomyces tyleranus
Tricholomataceae
Trichostoma crissum

385,392
392
392
392
392
392
392
392
392
392
392
392
392
385,391391

V
Volvariella volcacea

385,394417

Index to Scientific name418

Index to Laotian
Reptiles and Amphibians
E
Eung yang

46

K
Ka pom26

Ka thang

27

Khan khak

32

Khane khak

48

Khiat kha kham

48

Khiat khakham

40

Khiat khiew

41

Khiat lang khiew

37

Khiat lang saek

38,39

Khiat leuang

41

Khiat lueong

39

Khiat makleuang

38

Khiat moo

33

Khiat sa42

Khiat ta oad

39

Khiat taath

42

Khiat tana42

Khiat tapad

44

Khiat tapath

37,38,39,41

Khiat tapath khayao

44

Kob hin

40

Kob houay

40

Kob na

34

P
25
24

Tao nam

142,144

Pa ka thong

121,122

Pa kaeng

66

Pa kang161

Pa kath140

Pa kaum

170

23,24,25
23

105

Pa kha yang noy

106

Pa khae117

Pa khan heua

165
88

Pa khao mong

85

Eian

125

P
Pa beuk

113

Pa bou137,174

132

Pa khayang

104,106

Pa khee hiay

107

Pa kheng

138

Pa kheokai

98

Pa khilam

163

Pa khing

164

Pa khob

108

Pa khor151

Pa khor kang

148

Pa kin ngung

124

Pa kothdam

102

Pa kouang173

Pa lai fai faa

158

Pa lang kaw

77,84

Pa lang name

77,84
131

Pa line maa

154

Pa loth130

Pa mak phangE

112,167

Pa khao mon

Pa loth na

Freshwater Fish

94
75,82

Pa kha yaeng khoo

Pa lath

T
Tao

147

Pa ka deuth

Pa khap khong

29

PoulouPa ka chon

Pa khao

28

Pa fa

134

Pa kethlaap

N
Ngu

166

Pa ka

Pa kaw

L
Laen

Pa jath

128
158,159

Pa math145

Pa men174

Pa moh133

Pa mok mang

169

Pa mou98

Pa mou man

98

Pa naa nou

171

Pa nai70

68

Pa ngon thong

172

Pa daeng

170

Pa nin

135

Pa do

150

Pa pak

64,162

Pa douk oui

118

Pa pak ban

67

Pa douth fune120

Pa pak kom

163

Pa eath97

Pa pak mon

162

Pa eune167

Pa pak ta leung

162

Pa fa lai

57

Pa pam154

Pa hak kouay

95

Pa pao155

Pa hou xang

101

Pa phan100

Pa ii jone147

Pa phow

Pa ithai

85,164

Pa chok houa liam

Pa ja la mit

Pa pia101

Pa pian tadam

419

116
62,76,83
169

Index to Laotian
Pa pik kai

109

Maeng daPa poth164

Maeng da na

212

Pa sa kang

87

Maeng kan ter

221

Pa sa lit

144

Maeng kham

237

Pa sa thong121

Maeng khaosan

215

212

Pa sanak

158,159

Maeng khap

244

Pa seua

175

Maeng kheng

206

61,91,92,93,123,

Maeng kheng ka po

209

124,159,168

Maeng kheng khao

Pa sill208

Pa sill dang160

Maeng kwang

Pa sill eao

93

Maeng mao

220

Pa sill hang daeng

90

Maeng meuin

198

Pa sill hang deang

161

Maeng nam fon

245

Pa sill khao

160

Maeng nangam

184

Pa sill nouad

71,78

Maeng ngoa nam

217

Pa soud

73,80

Maeng ngord nam

219

Pa swai

115

Maeng nieng

239

Pa tab houa bith

165

Maeng por

184

Pa taeb kaew

61

Maeng sang

246

Pa tong dang

58

Maeng sone

191

Pa tong dao

60

Maeng yong yo

195

Pa tong kay

60

Mod deng

222

Pa tong na

58

Mod som

222

Pa vee101

P

Pa vien fai

160

Pheuang

Pa viene fai

63T

Pa xeuam

110

Takten

Pa yone ta loh

172

Takten thong

Pa yone thong kom

171

Tap tao

Pasill160

Tor hua seua

Insects

227
198
197,198,199
239,242
225

Snails and BivalvesB
Bao

247,249

H
229

C

Hoy choup267

Hoy hom

261

Cha ruad255

Hoy khao leuane

Chakchan203

Hoy kii

Chee noun deng235

Hoy lekchan

271

Chilli192

Hoy lep maa

278

Chilo

192

Hoy pakkouang

264

Chinay192

Hoy satang

273

Chuchee229,231

Hoy xai

273
275,278

275,278

D
Douang254

Duang mae

250

Duang mai phai

250

Duang ton tan

249

Duck dae morn

252

Duck dae morn ka beua

254

Other invertebrates
B
Bung

I
Iniaw

184

K
Ka bee255

Ka beua254

Khai chakchan

211

M
Maeng chee noun
Maeng cheid

293

K

235
239,242420

Ka pou

289

Khung

285

Khung kam ngai

287

Index to Laotian
Plants
B
Ban

335

Baung

332

Bee ian

370

Bon

309

Bong

373

Boua

325

Boua bok

375

Boua louang

325

Bua khee bae

304

Bua ngern

304

Bua noy

304

Buab

343

B
Chan

362

Chap

346

D
Deua

375

Deuay

315

Dong kok359

311

Ee too367

Eilert

306

Eu

342

F
Fak kham

342

B
Hai

340

Hang nok yung

336

Hao

305

Heo

316

hmauz nooyz329

Hom den361

Hom pae

377

Horm parn

377

Horm porm

377

Houm

361

Houm hap

311
317

Ihum

357

Ii fim357

Ii leuth306
355

Jon ban355
309

Ka dao348

Ka don364

Ka don hok

364

Ka don nam

363

Ka duk352

Ka sai319

Ka sang

350

Ka thart

311

Kachieng dang

320

337

Kath khao

374

Kathin

337

Kaw

344

Kev

374

Kha

335

Kha min319

Kha min kheun

319

Kha min xan

319

Kha yang

367

Khaa

318

Khaat

374

Khae

338,339,368

Khae paa

368

Khai

344
379
331,339

Khampom

330

Khane

352

Khao

344

Khao kam

315

Khao thong

307

Khea som lom

366

Khee hoot349

Kheelak

338

Kheng

371

Kheng khom

372

Kheua

344

Kheua kheun

371

Khin

322

Kho

353

Kho som

353

Khom

348

Kok

348

Kork

347

Kouk

318

Kuay

323
369

M

K
Ka book

334

KasethLinmai

J
Jon

Kane

L

I
Iehin

308

Kham

372

Ee moo320

Kan chongKhai phaneE
Eak

Kachieng khao

Mak bok327

Mak tao312

Mam pao311

Man darng373

Man thet

373

Manton331

Mapipuan

305

Mi

340

Mohng

333

Mom

341

N

421

Nam panya

336

Naw mai314

Naw san

313

Naw yae

313

Ngeun

331

Ngiu barn354

Index to Laotian
Ni ma noy
Nok
Nyor barn

324
375,376

Yom

329

Yoth mak noth

332

365

O
On taw

332

FungusPHPang

336,360

Peeb

370

Het bee

390

Peo

360

Het bot

387

Phaew

360

Het daeng

400

Phak nam

310

Het din400

Phak tao

328

Het fang

394

Pham

310

Het hom

389

Phang

347

Het hou khouang

Pong

308

Het hou ling

405,406

Pouy nam345

Het hou ling

406

S

387

Het hou nou daeng

406

307

Het hou nou dam

405

Sa kharn

307

Het hou nou hang pheung

406

Sai

343

Het kab kae

390

Saiboua

304

Het kadang

387

Saieing

370

Het khai

400

Sakhaa307

Het khai khao

399

Samek

346

Het khai lang khiou

400

Sang

350

Het khao387

See dar par365

Het khao peng400

Si sang356

Het khao tok

390

Sien

357

Het khon khao

387

Sii

376

Het kone

392

Soapsap

327

Het la ngak

393

Som loum326

Het la ngok

393

Som mor345

Het la ngok daeng393

Som poy334

Het la ngok khao

393

Sompordee354

Het la ngok leuang393

Het lom khao

399

Sa khanT
Ta khop356

Het meuak393

Ta kouang362

Het na mouang

400

Takai

326

Het na ngoua

400

Thao

378

Het nam ma

397

Tiew

328

Het nam mak400

Tin khii khap

359

Het nouath

404

Tob

317

Het phai387

Tob porng316

Het phan387

Tob sava

316

Het pheung dam

395

Ton kha320

Het pheung leuang398

Ton mak ngay

353

Het pheung tin leuang398

Ton taan312

Het pho407

Toupmoub321

Het poh faai

407

Tour hair341

Het poh nang

407

Tum

349

Het pouak

392

Het pouak

392

W
Waen

303

Het pouak chik

392

Wan

355,358

Het pouak khao

392

Wan ban330

Het pouak lao

392

Wan kok358

Het pouak phane

392

X

Het pouak tab

392

Xar

364

Het pouak tab nhai

392

Xar deua366

Het pouk

392

Het ta392

Het tab

392

YYanang324

422

Index to Laotian
Het tab392

Het tab chik392

Het tab dong392

Het tab kai noi

392

Het tab tao

395

Het than noi

400

Het tin kab kae

390

Het tin pok

387

Het tob

407

K
Katan

405

423

Index to Laotian424Index to Khmer
Reptiles and Amphibians
A
Ai(ch)ko

33,44

Andawk

23,24

B
Bong kuoi

26

H
Hing

46

K
Kanchang cheik

37,38,39,41

Kanchang cheik dai

38

King kuok

32

Kongkaeb ai(ch)ko

33,44

Kongkaep40

Kongkaep koun kromom

48

Kongkaep ouk

34

Konthiey25

Kounk’at

42

P
Poah

29

T
Trokuot

Tray chrokaing

87

Tray chrokaing kdaong

87

Tray chuntia phlok

165

Tray diep

150

Tray domray

137

Tray k’ai

60

Tray k’aik

76,83Tray k’ao

170

Tray k’chung131

Tray k’chung t’moo

131

Tray k’saan

148

Tray kae

116

Tray ka-ey

60

Tray kahae krohom

63

Tray kanchan chrah toi(ch)132Tray kanchoh baai so

106

Tray kanchoh ch’nout

104

Tray kanchoh t’mo

107

Tray kanchoun chey

147

Tray kanchrieit

100

Tray kanchruk krohom98

Tray kap samain

28

Tray kap soTray ka-san boeung

Freshwater Fish
A
Antong

125

P
Phting-toch

122

T
Tray ai(ch)kok

163,164

70
75,82
174

Tray kbok

158,159

Tray keh109

Tray khlaa bang133

Tray khman (so)73,80Tray khnong veng

163,164

Tray klang haai

108

Tray kom phliein phluk

144

Tray kombot chromoh

169

Tray komphliein srae

142

Tray bobail krobai

57

Tray kompol bay

67

Tray ch’kae nii

112

Tray kompot para

155

Tray ch’kaok

68

Tray konthoo

144

Tray ch’pun miah

162

Tray kontoy krohom161

Tray ch’pun moul

163

Tray kontrop

134

Tray chaap

101

Tray kontrop khla

175

Tray changwa la-et

159

Tray kram tonsai

145

Tray changwaa phlieng phnom160

Tray kran138

Tray chhdao

150

Tray kray

60

Tray chhpin prak64

Tray krobai thom117

Tray chhpin sdaeng

162

Tray kroem chul140

Tray chhwiet kdaa

171

Tray kroh mimay

85

Tray chhwiet prak

172

Tray kroh phnom

166

Tray chhwiet prak luang

172

Tray kromom

110

Tray chlowin

128

Tray kropoat

112

Tray chlowin bongkong

130

Tray lin170

Tray chlowin kaeo

130

Tray ondat chhkae khmau

154

Tray chongwa

92

Tray onding ton

118

Tray chongwa ch’nout

168

Tray ongkot krohom165

Tray chongwa moul91

Tray ongkot prak

167

Tray chongwa phnom

93

Tray ongkot prak stang

88

Tray chongwa pout toui(ch)93Tray paphak

169

Tray chongwa srae

61

Tray pawa mok pii

62

Tray chongwa sroloung

91

Tray phneik krohom

169

Tray chongwa sroloung ch’nout

90

Tray phting toi(ch)122Tray chongwaa ongkoo

123

Tray phtoah

151

71,78

Tray phtoung

121

Tray chongwaa phlieng (ch’nout)

425

Index to Khmer
R

Tray pra kondol

171

Tray praa

115

Rey

Tray praa thom

115

S

Tray pream sor

173

Som boh au mal

Tray promar

173

T

Tray riei(ch)113

Tak khmom

227

Tray riel (ompal)

66

Tok tol

191

Tray roh151

Tray romeas

174

Tray ronoung ch’nout164

Tray ruh cheik95

Tray rus kamplaok

97

Tray slaat

58

Tray smok

94

Tray sondai

112

Tray srok chan70

Tray ta aon

110

Tray ta nel

102

Tray temprak

77,84

Tray tilapia chhnout

135

Tray trosok

167

Trey kanchoh baai

105

Trey kanchoh stang

106

203
225

Snails and BivalvesC
Cha chraing

271

K
Kchau dong

267

Kchau k’hai

267

Kchau tnaot

267

Kchong dua

273

Kchong hein

261

Kchong hien

273

Kchong srae

264

Krom

275

L
Liah bang

278

InsectsA
Ang krong222

Au mal225

Other invertebrates
A
Aping krobai

C
Chang kom

219

Chongrat

192

Bon kong

252

Dong kam bot

239

Dong kau duong

203

Dong kau neang

250

Dounchy

184

287

K

D
Dok dua

293

B

Kdarm

289

Kdarm phnom289

Kdarm srae

289

Kompuh285

K
Kan tea

217

Kanh chae

237

Kanteatuk

212

A

Kantomroy

184

Ampl

339

Khnyong krohom

235

Angkanh338

Khonteh long

PlantsB

239,242

Kom phem

244

Bah

342

Kom poulaieh

231

Bai remeas365

Kom poung aeh

229

Banla saot

334

Kon dob kiew

198

Bay damnaeb

334

Bei sanlek

352

Kon dob krohom

197,198

Kon dob para

197

C

Kon dob smau

199

Cham bakKoun au mal

225

Chan

362

Chantol pnom

303

M

327

Me ambok

246

Chaplu306

Me pleing

220

Cheng koo

335

Meichah

184

Chi

376

Chi rona

377

Chi slak m'lu

307

P
Pong rout

227

426

Index to Khmer
Chi van soy

377

Lpeu

Chilong360

Lum dein proi

320

Chompa dok

340

Lumpuehs

327

Chor bai tea

310

Lvie dai

341

Chouk

325

M

Chrach308,317

Mak prang

347

Chroluf

368

Makak

347

Chunlueng360

Mamien357

Chuok sow

325

Marea

343

Chyeak323

Mem plong khtim

316

Mkak prei

348

D

342

Dak po

368

Mlu

376

Damloo chhvie prei

311

Mon pooh

341

Damloong chhie

373

Mon touch

341

Damloong chhiem moen

311

M'orm

367

Dang’khem

359

M'rom

357

Dangkiep k'dam

329

Mrua prau

367

Dehs prei

311

Mrum

357

Domlong

373

N

Dong veik

317

Ngup

330

Nho srok365

No noung moul

343

J
Jeik krium

370

K

O

Ka khop pray334

Ong kie dai

Kanh chaet

337

P

Kanthom thead337

Phlae treal

305

Kantot

329

Pika

369

Kantout pray

330

Plae oul

365

Kantroob samla

351

Pnou

349

Kantrook

351

Pongro353

Kaot prum

366

Poun

346

Kbet chun

359

Pounblay

348

Khaohs344

Pralit304

Khchiey

319

Preich

358

Khvat

350

Prolet dong

304

Kngaok barang

336

Proret romchang

304

Knyay

322

Pti

361

Pti leak361
348

Kom plau

316,317338

Komping pouy

345

Puen si phlae

Komplou

306

R

Kon deang

370

Reang kouk

364

Kon plaok

316

Romiet ou lmiet

319

Kong kep356

Rum deng

318

Kontorop

351

Russey314

Koor fii

354

S

Kou

354

Salien348

Krakhob

356

S'am

335

Krapen tuk

370

Samrang355

Krasang

350

Sannda326

Krasang tumhum

360

Sau mau pray332

Kro chap kdam

354

Sdau

348

Kro sauch349

Ser moen

353

Kroap chukrot

336

Skuey

315

Krochap

346

Slap changwa

311

Krosangteap

306

Smach

327

L

Snau

339

L’vearom

341

Sralot

366

Leap

340

Srama

345

Lngieng

328

Sraw ngai

315

Lngieng tuk

328

Sroum dau

369

427

Index to Khmer
Sunndang

333

Swaa

321

T
T'ngang

331

Tae

364

Tamoung333

Thama toeb

335

Thnong

366

Tien

370

T'naot
Toal

#####
309

Trab put lumnhong

372

Trachiek

376

Trakiet paong

308

Tranh

376

Trap khaa371

Trap lung371

Trap put raw nyong

371

Traup put raw nyong pray

372

Traw

309

Trouy reang

363

Trow kun sor

373

FungusP
Psat

386

Psat chhu

387

Psat chombaung

394

Psat chombo

397

Psat dambouk

392

Psat kanchoun

391

Psat kliem

389

Psat kompingdoung

393

Psat kumau

389

Psat mayura

386

Psat sway

387

Psat ta woa

387

Psat trouchea kondol

405,406

Psat trouchea kondol

406

428

Index to Thai
Reptiles and Amphibians
T
Tapab nam25

Pla khao kao

112

Pla khem

122

Pla kheng

138

Pla khi hea

107

Pla khorFreshwater FishP

100,151

Pla khui larm

163

Pla kin yoong

124

Pla kod102

Pla kra dee mor

142

Pla bai mai

144

Pla kra dee nang

144

Pla ben57

Pla kra jok

132

Pla boo137

Pla kra mang169

Pla buak113

Pla kra ting131

Pla cha on

110

Pla kra toong haew

121

Pla chado

150

Pla kraben

57

Pla chalet (salat)58

Pla krai60

Pla chaw pha

61

Pla krim see

145

Pla chon151

Pla kuang173

Pla dangnoi

161

Pla lai125

Pla dog jok

67

Pla lard

131

Pla doh150

Pla laung khon

163

Pla dood

94,120Pla lin maa

154

Pla dook na

118

Pla line kwai154

Pla dook oui

118

Pla lod128

Pla doom set

133

Pla lod kang lai

130

Pla dork gaew

61

Pla lod lai

130

Pla e jae

63

Pla lod saai

130

Pla e-jaun

147

Pla mak phang

Pla e-tuu

76,83

158,159

Pla maud

145

161

Pla melang pu

150

Pla haang deang

63

Pla mhen

174

Pla hang lueng

77,84

Pla moliluay

164
168

Pla haang dang

Pla hang pan

60

Pla moom

Pla ian125

Pla mor138

Pla ian hoo

158

Pla mor chang yead134

Pla id97

Pla mu98

Pla jalamet nam jeud101

Pla mu kao

98

Pla jard

166

Pla nai70

Pla jok68

Pla nam lang

Pla jork

68

Pla nam mueng

165

Pla ka76,83

Pla nam ngueng

109

Pla ka derd

142,144

Pla nam pueng

94

Pla ka song147

Pla neua on

110

Pla kad140

Pla nil135

Pla kae khom85

Pla pak

162,163

67,77,84

Pla kae yok

77,84

Pla pak na

64

Pla kamang

87

Pla pak nuad

162

Pla kang

148

Pla pak pao

155

Pla kang beung108

Pla pan132

Pla kao sarn

123

Pla pea76,83

63

Pla phor

Pla kapien tong

116

Pla kasoop

73,80

Pla kayao

166

Pla sa164

Pla kha134

Pla sa lid

144

Pla kha baeung phaeng mor

133

Pla sa wai noo

171

Pla kha yaeng

105

Pla sadet138

Pla kha yaeng bai kao

106

Pla sakang kreeb soong

87

Pla kha yaeng kang lai

104,106

Pla sauy115

Pla rak kuay

Pla khae117

Pla si kook

Pla khao88

Pla siew

429

95,97

169
92,160Index to Thai
Pla siew aow

92

K

Pla siew daok khao noi

93

Krachorn

Pla siew haang daeng

90,91

191

M

Pla siew haang daum92

Ma lang e

203

Pla siew hang daeng168

Ma lang kra sone

191

Pla siew kaew

61

Ma lang singh

208

Pla siew khang lai

93

Maeng da212

Pla siew khao

123

Maeng gi son

191

Pla siew kwai

91

Maeng krang206

Pla siew nuad yaw

71,78

Maeng song kan

221

Pla sob thaong noi

122

Malang chinoon

235

Pla soi

164

Malang da212

Pla soi kred tee

170

Malang da suan215

Pla soi nok khao

85

Malang kham

237

66

Malang kom tong

246

Pla song

75,82

Malang mao

220

Pla sood jaum

73,80

Malang neang

242

Pla suae

175

Malang tub

244

Pla sucker

120

Mang kheng206

Pla sue daam133

Mod daeng222

Pla swai

115

Mung lum yai

206

Pla ta dam

169

Mung mang pong nam

217

Pla ta pean

169

Mung mang pong num

219

Pla ta pien song jud

88

Mung nug kran209

Pla taeb kaew

165

N

Pla takak

67

None mai pai

Pla tapak163

P

Pla tapien khao

64

Pee seu cha ruad

Pla tapien sai

167

Phai pang

211

Pla tong

58

Pheung min

227

Pla tong grai

60

R

Pla tong lao

60

Rot duan

Pla tong prus

165

T

Pla took kae

117

Tak ka tan kha daeng198

Pla urn

167

Tak ka tan kheow

199

Pla wa na nor

62

Tak ka tan lai

197

Pla wien170

Tak ka tan pa tan ga

198

Pla yeesok

167

Tor hua suea

225

Pla yorn mauk

172

Tou on ma lang por bann184

Pla yorn taa po

171

Tou on ma lang por seau

184

Pla yorn thong172

Pla soi peek daeng

250

H

C
Chuchee bou255

Snails and Bivalves

Insects
Chi reed250

192
229,231D

Hoy chedi271

Hoy cherry264

Hoy duea273

Hoy khom

267

Doung creem

245

Hoy ma la you

261

Doung ding239

Hoy sai

278

Doung hnoud yao
Duang mai pai
Duang sakoo

245
247,250249

Duk dae mai

252

Duk dae mai pa

254

Other invertebrates
K

J
Ji pon192

Juk jan

203

430

Khung

285

Khung yai

287

Index to ThaiP

Kaseth nam

337

Poo

289

Kathin

337

Pu

289

Kha luang

318

PlantsA
Ang kial bo

370

B
Bai kari351

Bai pai

311

Bia yai

359

Boua bok

376

Boua kiepe

304

Boua louang

325

Bua khuak

308

Bua kin sai

304

Bua loi

308

Buap hom

343

Buap klom

343

335

Cha phlu

306Champada

340

Champedak

340

Chan

362

Chang

313

Chi

377

Chi doi377

Chi farang

377

Chik na363

Choi nang

324
320

Dueai

315

F
342

Fak thong342

H
Haeo chin

316

Hang nok yung farang336

Hom khaek351

Hom noi377

Hom pom377

Hom pom kula377

Hoump hep

311
367

Ka phrao yai

367

Ka thok rok

332

Kachieng dang

320

Kadao

348

Kaki

370

Kam phaeng chet chan326

Kan tong

330

Kasalong kham

370

368

Khaep

342

Khai nae

310

Khai nam

310

Kham

339

Khamin319
319
315,344
367

Kheng

371

Kheua kheun

371

Khi lek

338

Khing

322

Kho

353

Kho kam352

Kho lean353

Kho som

353

Khom khao

361

Khom si

361

Khrat

374

Khrat phawen

374

Khruea ma noi

324

Ko ton331

Kok khao348

Kok-mon

348

Koson

331

Kra chai319

Kra chet337

Kra don nam

363

Kra don tun

363
306,307327

Krachiap daeng354

Kradon364

Kradon kok

364

Kramop365

Krathin337

Kri krasom

331

Kuay

323

L
Limpi

303

Linmai369

Lum e book

309

M

K
Ka phrao

368

Khae pa

Krabok306

Fak khiao

338

Khae hang khang

Kra sangE
EilertKhae ban

Khayaeng

D
Dala

368

Khao

320

Cha om318

Khae

Khamin chanC
CarlarKha pa

Ma kae khom

431

372

Ma kham pom

330

Ma khon kom

357

Ma khuea phuang371

Ma khwaeng dam

372

Ma khwit

350

Ma kok348

Ma linmai

369

Ma ngaeng

346

Index to Thai
Ma ngaeo353

Phi phuan noi

305

Ma noi324

Phung thalai

355

Ma pring

347

Plang

360

Ma sang

350

Po phi370

Ma uek

372

Pro

321

Ma waeng

372

Puya

336

Ma wo

327

R

Ma yong chit

347

Rok

332

Maeng krang

305

Ruunong

337

Mahoi

343

S

Maikou

344

Sadao

348

Mak ka sang

350

Saiboua304

Mak oi

373

Saliam348

Makok farang

347

Salit

366

Makok waan

347

Salot pa

332

Makrut349

Samet chun

346

Man mue suea

311

Samo thai345

Man sampalang

331

Samrong355

Man sao

311

Sano

339

Man thet

373

Santawa

311

Mang kheng305

Si puk dong352

Mangmao

329

Sian

357

Mao-khaipla

329

Siao dok khao

335

Maothung

329

Som lom

366

Mara

343

Som op ep

326

Marum

357

Som poi

334

Matum

349

Som sandan

326

Mayom

329

Som siang

357

Mek

346

Sompordee

354

Miang

364

Sompormo

354

Mohng

333

T

Mon

341

Ta kaiMung lum yai

305

Ta khop farang

356

Ta khop pa

334
353

N

326

Nam puya336

Ta khroNaw mai

314

Talapat ruesi

308

Nok

376

Tamlueng

342

Nun

354

Tan

312

Tana tua mia

332

P
Pan rong

353

Tang luang

375

Parn dien

304

Tao kiat

308

Phaeng phuai nam

345

Thao

378

Phak bung373

Thao wan khieo

324

Phak e-heem

357

Thao yanang

324

Phak e-hum

357

Thian khao plueak

376

Phak hin nam

317

Thian ta takkataen

376

Phak hom nam

361

Thopthaep

327

Phak kai378

Tio khao

328

Phak khang kai

308

Tio kliang

328

Phak khiat

317

Tob chawa

316

Phak khom nam

361

Tob pong

316

Phak khuang

359

W

Phak nam

310

Waen

303

Phak phai

360

Waen kaeo

375

Phak top thai317

Wan ban330

Phak wan358

Wan dam

355

Phakhai343

Wan par355

Phakhoei343

Wan phra chim

311

Pham

310

Wengkork

376

Pheka

369

432

Index to ThaiYYo ban365

Z
Zakhan307

FungusH
Hed hom sot

389

Hed horm

389

Het fang

394

Het hart403

Het hom

389

Het hou

396

Het hu390

Het hu nu

406

Het kai393

Het khon402

Het khon khao

387

Het kon392

Het kon392

Het kon392

Het kon392

Het kon392

Het kon392

Het lom

387,399

Het lom

399

Het nan fa

387

Het paohu

386

Het phaan

398

Het taan400

Het taitaodam

395

Het takai

399

Het toup407

433

Index to Thai

434

Index to Vietnamese
Reptiles and Amphibians
B
Ba ba

25
26

Chang hiu

38

Chang hiu dai bac

39

Chang hiu xanh

37

Chau chang38

Coc nha

32

Cocnuoc lima

42

Cua dinh25
44

Ech dong

34

Ech nui xanh41

Ech suoi39

Ech tron40

Enh uong

46

K
Ky da hoa

28

Ky da van28

Ky nhong

26

N
Nhai bau

48

Nhai ngoe

33

Nhong cat

27

27

Rua ba go

23

Rua dau to24

Rua dua

23

Rua nap23

Rua nui vien25

87,169Ca day147

Ca duoi57

Ca duong bay

67
63

Ca heo rau

97

Ca heo vach

98

Ca hu

116

Ca huong ven

175

Ca khoai song95

Ca lang102

Ca lanh canh xiem

165

Ca lau kinh120

Ca lia thia

140

Ca lim kim ao

122

Ca linh cam

170

Ca linh ray

163

Ca linh ria xiem

164

Ca loc bong150

Ca loc den

151

Ca loc dong151

Ca long tong

91,92,93,168
90
71,78
154
85

Ca me trang

75,82

Ca ngua nam

C91

Ca me lui soc
Ca me vinh

Freshwater Fish

76,83

Ca he vang

Ca luoi meo2368

Ca danh

Ca long tong sat

T
Tua hop106

Ca long tong do duoi

29

Rong dat

Ca chot vang

Ca long tong daR
Ran bong sung104

Ca et moiE
Ech cay mep trang105

Ca chot soc
Ca cocC
Cac keCa chot ngua

64
73,80

Ca ngua xam

170

Ca nhai121

Ca noc155

Ca phen song173

Ca ram167

Ca ro bien

134

Ca ro dong138

Ca ro phi van

135

Ca an muoi

124

Ca sac buom142

Ca bai trau

145

Ca sac diep144

Ca bam da94

Ca sac ran

144

Ca bong dieu

174

Ca soc123

Ca bong tuong137

Ca son xiem

132

Ca chach bong131

Ca suu173

Ca chach com

130

Ca tai tuong

174

Ca chach lau

131

Ca that lat

58

Ca chach ran

130

Ca that lat com

60

Ca chach xiem

128

Ca tra115

Ca chanh duc

148

Ca tra chuot

171

Ca chay nam

159

Ca tra dau

113

Ca chien

117

Ca tra soc

167

Ca chim

101

Ca trao61

Ca chinh hoa

158

Ca tre vang

118

Ca chot

106

Ca tren bau

110

Ca chot bong107

Ca tren rang

108

435

Index to VietnameseN

Ca trich xiem

158

Ca vay xuoc

77,84

Ca xac bau

171

O

Ce leo

112

Oc

261

Oc buou vang264

Oc dang267

Oc len

271

Oc mo

273

Ngao

L
Luon dong

125

275

Insects
B
Bo hung

Other invertebrates

229,231

Bo ray235

B

Bo xit hoi

208

Ba khia

Bo xit nau

209C

Bo xit nhan

206

Cua dong

Bu cap nuoc

217

N

Bu nieng

239

Nhen

C

289
289
293

T

Ca cuong212

Tep rong285

Ca cuong nho

215

Tom cang xanh287

Cao cao198

Cao cao vo

197

Cao cao xanh

199

Cau cau xah
Chau chau

246

Plants

197,199

Chom chom nuoc

219

Chuon chuon trau

184

A
Au nuocD
De com192

De nhui

191

Dien dien

242

Duong dua

249

Duong tre

247

Bau nauK
Kien vang

222

Kien vuong237

Kim quit

244

M
Moi

220

N
Nhong tam252

O
Ong mat

227

Ong vo ve

225
235
195

Ve sau203

X
Xen toc

245

Snails and Bivalves
H
Hen

310

Bi do

342

Bi ro

342

Bo chet337

Bo ngot330

Bo qua305

Bo qua hoe

305

Bobo nep315

Bong gon354

Bu ngot

330

Bua nha333

Bua nui333

Bup giam

354

Ca An

V
Vat sanh349

Beo phanC

R
Ray me

346

B

278

436

372

Ca dai hoa trang371

Ca lich345

Ca nut ao371

Ca phao372

Ca trai vang

371

Cai-soong356

Cam dia ta

319

Can thang

350

Chan

332

Chanh oc

332

Chanh sac

349

Chiec

363

Chieu lieu xanh

345

Choc gai

310

Choi moi

329

Index to Vietnamese
Chom chom trang duoi

353

L

Chop mau trung quoc

326

La cari

Chua moi

329

La nuoc370

Chum ngay357

Lac tien

332

Chum ruot329

Loc vung

363

Chum ruot nui

330

Lop bop

327

Chuoi

323

Lot

306

Co luoi vit

317

Lua gao315

Co tong

331

Lua nuoc

315

Coc

347

Luc binh316

Coc rung

348

Luoi uoi

355

Cu neo308

M

Cuc ao374

Ma de nuoc

311

Mangmang trang

357

D

351

Da loc320

Mat cat

313

Danh danh la ta

365

Mat sam356

Dau dau353

May dan313

Dau tam

341

May manh

313

Day bat

342

Me

339

Day dang366

Me rung

330

Day du de305

Mit to nu

340

Day la giang366

Moc meo336

Day nhat354

Mon nuoc309

Day sam

324

Mong bo soc

335

Day xanh

324

Mong toi

360

De

344

Mop

310

Den canh

361

Muong den338

Den gai

361

Muong xiem

338

Den hoang

361

Muop dang343

Den tia361

Muop huong343

Den xanh

361

NDien dien

339

Nang ngot

316

Diep ca

307

Nghe

319

Diep tay336

Ngo gai

377

Diep trinh nu

336

Ngo om

367

Dinh

368

Ngo ri377

Do ngon328

Ngo ta377

Du du rung375

Ngo tay377

Nhan long

332

G
Gac

344

Nhao

365

Gung

322

Nhat phien

375

H

Nhau

365

Ho dang mui giao

326

Nua chuong

309

Hoang moc352

Nuc nac369

Hong quan an

334

P

Huong nhu

367

Phi tao giap

334

Phuong vi

336

K
Keo Binh linh

337

Q

Keo dep

334

Quach

350

Keo giau

337

Quanch349

Keo kerr

335

R

Keo neo308

Ra det lua

370

Kha thu344

Ran sang

358

Kho qua343

Rau bo303

Khoai lang373

Rau cang cua

306

Khoai mi331

Rau dang dat

359

Khoai ngot

311

Rau deu rang

303

Khuc te374

Rau dua nuoc

345

Khuc vang374

Rau giap ca

307

Ko-nia327

Rau lang

373

437

Index to Vietnamese
Rau ma376

FungusRau ma la sen

375

M

Rau ma nhat

375

Mot dang nam doc

Rau mac bao

317

N

Rau mac thon

317

Nam dui ga

391

Rau mui377

Nam huong389

Rau muong373

Nam meo405,406

Rau nhuc337

Nam meo406

Rau om367

Nam moi392

Rau ram360

Nam rom394

Rau rut

337

Nam so386,387

Rau thi la376

Nam so387

Rieng nep

318

Rong mem

379

Rong nhot

378

S
Sam

359

Sam long

324

San

331

Sau dau

348

Sen

325

Sen thai

320

So dua338

Sung do304

Sung lam

304

Sung trang

304

T
Tai chua333

Tam ruot329

Tao xoan378

Thanh nganh dep

328

Thanh nganh nam

328

Thanh tra

347

Thi

362

Thia la376

Thien ly

366

Thieng lieng

321

Thiet dinh

368

Thoi hoang

375

Thot not312

Thuy leTieu

370
307,345

Tra

364

Tram

346

Tre

314

Truc

349

Trung ca

356

Truong duyen hai

352

Tu co tron

308

V
Va

341

Vung

364

Vung xoan

364

X
Xang

345

Xoai rung

347

Y
Ydi nep

315

438

393

Index to Japanese
Reptiles and Amphibians

InsectsA

A

Asia-jimuguri-gaeru

46

Asia-tsumugi-ari

Asia-midori-gaeru

37

F

Asia-uki-gaeru

42

Fuchitori-gengprou

B

222
239

G

Babatorafu-gaeru

34

Gideon-hime-kabuta

Bekkou-mutsuashi-game

25

H

H

237

Hanenaga-inago

199

Heriguro-hikigaeru

32

Hebitombo

221

Higashi-bengal-ootokage

28

Heri-kamemushi

209

I

K

Indo-China-water-dragon

27

Kabuto-emma-kogane

231

Irokae-Karotesu

26

Kaikoga252

Ishi-game23

Kamikirimushi

245

Kera

191

K
Kuhl-gaeru

40

MMaru-suppon

25

N

Kogata-gamushi

242

Kooimushi

215

Koorogi

192

Kumo-heri-kamemushi

208

29

Kurokogane

235

Nokoheri-marugame

23

M

Numa-gaeru

33

Madara-ashimizu-kamakiri

Nami-hebi

O

244
227

Ooatama-game24

Mitsubachi

Oohime-amagaeru

48

O

R
Riki-game

Oo-osazoumushi
25

219

Midori-futo-tamamushi

247

S

S

Seaka-namban-daikoku-kogane

229

Shina-mizuhebi

29

Semi

203

Shiroago-gaeru

44

Shiroari

220

Suppon25

Suzumega

255

Y
Yubinaga-tonosama-gaeru

T
38

Freshwater Fish
B
Betta

140

H
Hakulen75,82
124

Kinoboriuo

138

Koi

70
120

Mekon-oo-namazu

113
58

Nile-tilapia

135

212

Taiwan-taikouchi

217

Taiwan-tsuchi-inago

198

Taketsutoga

250

Tombo

184

Tsuchi-inago

197

Tsumaguro-suzumebachi

225
211

Yago (larva)

184

Yamamayu

254

Yashi-oo-osazoumushi

249

Z
ZoumushiT
Taunagi

Taiwan-tagame

YN
Naginata-namazu

198

Waraji-kaigaramushi

M
Madara-loricaria

195

Taiwan-oo-batta

W

K
Kadayashi

Taiwan-kutsuwa-mushi

246

Snails and Bivalves

125

I
Ishi-gai

275

N
Neptune-oomaimai

439

273

Index to JapaneseS

Houou-boku

Shizimi-gai

278

I

Sukumi-ringogai

264

Indo-lukamu

T

336
334

Indo-sendang

348

Tanishi

267

Ine

315

Tougata-kawanina

271

Inondo376

Ishigaki-koshou

306

YYama-tanishi

K

261

Other invertebrates
K
Kani

289

O
Oni-tenaga-ebi

287

Oo-tsuchi-gumo

293

T
Tarantula

293

Tenaga-Ebi and its allies

285

PlantsA

Kalee-no-ki

351

Kami-mebouk

367

Kamoji-shiogusa

379

Ke-mizu-kinbai

345

Ke-nasu

372

Kibana-omodaka

308

Kingin-nasubi

371

Kobu-mikan

349

Koendoro

377

Kohaku-monbing

348

Koliandaa

377

Ko-nagi

317

Koparamitsu

340

Kousau377

Kuleson356

Kurachai

319

Kurokiibo

332

Kuroton331

Akabana-suilen

304

Kusa-tokeisou

332

Amameshiba

330

Kuu-shin-sai

373

Ama-yani-lingo

347

Kyassaba

331

Amedama-no-ki

329

M

Anmala330

Malakkanoki

Aomidoro

378

Mijinko-ukikusa

310

Mirobalan-no-ki

345
337

B

330

Banana323

Mizu-ojigisou

Ban-ukon321

Mizu-Oobako

311

Belu-no-ki

349

Mizu-yatsude

310

C

Mukagoimo

311

Myoga-modoki

318

Cha-no-ki

364

Chaom

335

N

Coconijya

372

Namban-karasu-uriD

344

Nangoku-denjisou

303
318

Dokudami

307

Nankyou

Dyl376

Nanyo-sansho

351

Nanyou-yatsude

375

F
Fuchoso

357

Nanyou-zakura

356

Funemi-no-ki

355

Nigauri

343

Futago-no-ki

352

O

G

Ohaguro-no-ki

328

Gingoukan

337

Okinawa-nemu

334

Gin-nemu

337

Omodaka-modoki

308

H

Ooba-gekkitsu

351

Hahako-gusa

374

Ooba-Koendoro

377

Haigoshou306

Ooyamaimo

311

Hali-biyu

361

Oranda-galashi

356

Hasu

325

Ougi-yashi

312

Hato-mugi

315

P

Hechima

343

Panya-no-ki

354

Henyouboku

331

Phak-chi

377

Hiyu

361

Pulam-mangoo

347

Hotei-aoi

316

440

Index to JapaneseR
Rozel-so

H
354

S

Hira-take

386

Houkitake404

Sato-imo309

I

Satsuma-imo

373

Iguchi

Seiron-hakobe

370

K

Seiyou-kabocha

342

Kegawa-take

387

Sennichi-modoki

374

Kikurage

406

Shii-no-mi

344

S

Shina-kuroguwai

316

Shii-take

Shiro-gochou

338

Shimeji

391

Shiso-kusa

367

Shiroari-take392

Shouga322

Shirohatsu

399

Sorizaya-no-ki

369

Suehiro-take390

Soshinka

335

T

Suberi-hiyu

359

Tamago-take393

Suzume-nasubi

371

Tsuchi-guri

407

Tsuchi-iguchi

397

T
Tagayasan

338

Y

Tahichi-monbing

347

Yamadori-takeTakenoko

314

Tamago-no-ki

347

Tamarindo339

Tenjiku-nasubi

372

Togeba-koliandaa

377

Togeimo

311

Torch-jinger

320

Tou-bishi

346

Tsubokusa

376

Tsulu-murasaki

360

U
Uchiwa-zenikusa

375

Ukon

320

Unnan-sansho

352

Usubana-sunakoshou

306

W
Wasabi-no-ki

357

Wood-Apple350

Y
Yaeyama-aoki

365

Yalaikou

366

Yani-lingo

348

Yasai-kalasu-uri

342

Ymama-guwa

341

You-sai

373

Yozaki-suilen

304

Yukan

330

FungusA
Amiashi-iguchi

396

Arage-kikurage

405

B
Benitake

400

C
Chichitake

403

F
Fukuro-take

394

441

398

389

395