Bisu
[aka Mbisu, Misu, Mibisu]Classification: Sino-Tibetan
·threatened
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Threatened
20 percent certain, based on the evidence available
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<2,740
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In China, spoken in one village of 240 people. In Burma, spoken by 2,000 in two or three villages. In Thailand, spoken by some members in two villages with a population of 500.
Ethnic group is unclassified in China, but called Laopin locally. Classified as the Hpyin ethnic group in Burma. Usually included in the Lawa or Lua hill tribe category in Thailand.
- MORE ON VITALITY
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Thailand: in Phadaeng village, the language is moribund, and in Takaw, recently extinct.
- OTHER LANGUAGES USED BY THE COMMUNITY
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Lahu
- LANGUAGE CONTEXT COMMENTS
Maintenance efforts underway; contact has recently been reestablished between the Bisu in these three areas.
- PLACES
- China, Burma, Thailand
- LOCATION DESCRIPTION
China: spoken in Laopingzhai, which is in Manghong Village Cluster, Mengszhe Township, Menghai County. Burma: 2 or three villages. Thailand: spoken in Doi Chomphu and Pui Kham.