In Gaodong Village of Guangdong Province, there are two Chinese swamp cypresses that have thrived for nearly 500 years. Their foliage intertwines as if they were an affectionate fairy tale couple. Eighty-year-old Wen Yanbao diligently guards these ancient trees, recognizing their priceless value. He cleans the pond regularly, which makes him immensely proud. The Chinese swamp cypress survived in specific areas in southern and southeastern China as the sole living species of the genus Glyptostrobus. It is listed as a plant under first-class state protection, and deemed a precious "living fossil."

About 'Journeys in Nature: Guangdong Maoming Series'

Maoming City is a biodiversity hub in south China's Guangdong Province. Leaning against the Yunkai Mountains, one of the largest mountain ranges in Guangdong, and facing the South China Sea, the city is endowed with a wet tropical climate, which has attracted numerous wild animal and plant species. CGTN Nature's film crew traveled to Maoming to offer viewers a glimpse into the wild world of the city. Stay tuned! 

For more: Guangdong Maoming Series Ep. 5: The dainty flower 'guarded' by 'tiger's paws'

(Cover image a video screenshot; video by the CGTN Nature film crew.)

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