DA NANG (VNS)—The Viet Nam Association for the Conservation of Nature and the Environment (VACNE) has recognised an ancient banyan tree on Son Tra Mountain as the first official Heritage Tree in the central city.

The banyan tree, which started growing in the mountainous area 1,000 years ago, is 26m high and 10m in diameter.

The tree shadows an area of over 100sqm, and is home to langurs and a rich ecosystem of primary flora and fauna.

The tree is also a stop-off point for adventurers in the tropical forests, which is part of the city's Nature Conservation Zone.

The tree's recognition aims to raise awareness about the value of protecting nature in the local community.

However, rapid construction of roads, resorts and tourism services are major threats to the tree and the rare langurs that live in it.

A Heritage Tree must satisfy the following criteria: the tree is over 200 years old, endemic, valuable and rare, of cultural and historical value and part of a beautiful natural landscape. The tree must be at least 25m high and 15m in diameter.. — VNS