In Lao PDR, fisheries provide the bulk of animal protein for the people and they are an increasingly important source of income. Most of the fish come from capture fisheries along the Mekong River and its tributaries, over about 2000 km of waterways within the country. Until now there has been little investigation of biological and socioeconomic aspects of this vital resource. ACIAR-funded scientists will work alongside those involved in a project funded by the Canadian International Development Research Centre. Together they will gather information from two key target areas, each ideally containing a full range of fisheries environments - mainstream, tributary, small stream, backswamp, pond and ricefield. The project will build up the capacity of the Lao Department of Livestock and Fisheries to undertake further research. Other benefits will arise from enhanced extension activity to assist fishing communities.