THE World Wide Fund for Nature has called on the Government to protect the Shalotung valley against development, including a proposed golf course and housing project.
The WWF has submitted a proposal to the Secretary for Planning, Environment and Lands that Shalotung, along with Three Fathoms Cove at Sai Kung, be declared a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Conservation officer Mr Billy Hau Chi-hang said yesterday development would threaten rare species of animals and plants - including newly-discovered varieties.
''While it's difficult to assess the impact on flora and fauna, at least some of the wetland habitat will be reclaimed and developed under the golf course. We're losing more and more wetland all the time in the New Territories,'' he said.
The area contains 20 species of wild orchids, three of which are endangered in Southeast Asia, and Mr Hau said orchid experts thought it unlikely the orchids would survive if the area became heavily-populated.
The SSSI proposals are being considered by the Agriculture and Fisheries Department in an initial assessment to determine whether they are justified and meet the necessary requirements. It would then be considered by the Planning, Environment and Lands Branch.
An environmental impact assessment being conducted by the designers of the golf course, Axis Environmental Consultants - due this month but not expected to be completed for eight weeks - will form part of the Government's considerations.