Alternate Names: Bunao, Po-Nau, Punu
Dialects: Bunuo (Pu No), Cingsui Longlin, Dongnu (Bunu, Punu, Tung Nu), Hontou Longlin, Naogelao (Baonuo, Nao Khalo, Nao Klao, Nau Klau, Pounou), Numao (Hong Yao, Nu Mhou), Nunu. The dialects listed may be at least 5 languages (Strecker 1987), communication is difficult (McConnell 1995).
Status Notes: Language of recognized nationality: Yao.
Genealogy:
Demographics: 258,000 (McConnell 1995). 97,000 monolinguals. Ethnic population: 439,000 (1982 census). 100,000 ethnic Bunu speak Central Hongshuihe Zhuang , as L1.
Language Use: Vigorous. All domains. All ages. Positive attitudes. Also use Chinese [cmn]. Mandarin Chinese used in schools. Also use Bouyei [pcc].
Language Development: Dictionary.
Typology: SVO; modifiers follow heads; up to 11 affixes; complex set of initials including prenasalized stops; relatively simple rhymes; tonal, most dialects have 8 tones.
Writing System: Latin
Nation of Origin: China
Other Comments: Daoist, traditional religion.