China
2024.10.11 16:01 GMT+8

Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park, a treasure of biodiversity

Updated 2024.10.11 16:01 GMT+8
CGTN

A view of the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park at dusk on March 23, 2022 /CFP

Located in the heart of Hainan Island, the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park is an ecological marvel, boasting the most extensive, well-preserved, and diverse tropical rainforest on any continental island in China. This lush expanse of green covers roughly one-eighth of Hainan, providing a sanctuary for rare and endangered species.

A file photo of a male Hainan gibbon in the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park /CFP

The park is the last refuge for the critically endangered Hainan gibbon, which is often considered the rarest primate on Earth. With fewer than 40 individuals remaining, this elusive species represents both the ecological richness of Hainan and the urgent need for conservation.

A file photo of a lizard (Acanthosaura lepidogaster) in the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park /CFP

Beyond the gibbons, the rainforest teems with tropical flora and fauna, making it a vital hotspot for biodiversity. Towering trees, dense undergrowth, and a thriving network of rivers and streams make this area play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting water cycles, and mitigating climate change. Recognizing its significance, the Chinese government has made Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park one of the country's top priorities for ecological conservation.

A file photo of the main peak of Wuzhi Mountain in the Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park /CFP

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