【中国新闻网】探访中国高黎贡山/独龙江站：全球生物多样性三个热点交汇区

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Gaoligong Mountain/Independent River Station aims to enhance ecological protection and scientific research in the Gaoligong Mountain region, which is a biodiversity hotspot and a critical ecological barrier in Southwest China [5][6][11]. Group 1: Importance of Gaoligong Mountain - Gaoligong Mountain covers only 0.36% of China's land area but is home to approximately 17% of China's higher plants and 26% of vertebrates, highlighting its significant biodiversity [5]. - The region serves as a natural geographical barrier between China and Myanmar and is crucial for ecological security in Southwest China, spanning over 600 kilometers [6]. - The area is characterized by a vertical elevation difference of over 4000 meters, with diverse climatic features influenced by the Indian Ocean's warm and humid air currents [7]. Group 2: Research and Development at the Station - The Gaoligong Mountain/Independent River Station focuses on long-term field observations and data integration to support cross-border ecological security, biodiversity protection, and sustainable resource utilization [7][10]. - Research areas include the long-term changes in forest ecosystem structure and function, biodiversity's role in ecosystem services, and the health assessment of regional ecosystems [10][12]. - The station has already made significant progress, including the discovery of over 1500 species of fungi and several new plant species, contributing to the understanding of biodiversity in the region [12][13]. Group 3: Biodiversity and Species Richness - Gaoligong Mountain is home to 4936 species of seed plants, accounting for about 30% of Yunnan's seed plants, and serves as a refuge for many rare and endangered species [8]. - The region hosts 1255 species of vertebrates, including 197 mammals and 780 birds, making it one of the most diverse areas in terms of species richness in a single natural geographical unit [8]. - The area is also a critical migratory pathway for birds, with 247 out of 780 recorded bird species being migratory [8]. Group 4: Future Prospects and Goals - The station is expected to become a national-level field station, contributing to the establishment of Gaoligong Mountain National Park and enhancing international scientific collaboration [11]. - The research conducted at the station aims to produce significant scientific outcomes that can inform ecological management and conservation strategies in the region and beyond [11].