十年“数”遍神州树，“拼”出森林全景图（自然之子）

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the groundbreaking work of a research team led by Guo Qinghua at Peking University, which has developed China's first "Tree Density Map" that estimates the number of trees in the country, revealing significant insights into forest resources and distribution [3][5]. Group 1: Tree Density Map - The "Tree Density Map" indicates that as of 2020, China has approximately 142.6 billion trees, with an average tree density of about 689 trees per hectare, equating to roughly 100 trees per person [3]. - The map shows that the southwestern region has the highest number of trees, approximately 36 billion, while the Yangtze River basin leads with about 49.6 billion trees [3][4]. Group 2: Research Methodology - The research team utilized drones equipped with LiDAR sensors to scan forests, employing AI algorithms to analyze data and satellite remote sensing to create a comprehensive forest panorama [4][6]. - Over a decade, the team collected data from over 70,000 sample plots, resulting in more than 400 terabytes of data, equivalent to over 80 million photos [4][5]. Group 3: Technological Advancements - The use of LiDAR technology has enabled the team to gather detailed three-dimensional information about trees, including height, diameter, and crown size, which traditional methods could not efficiently capture [6][7]. - The team has developed an integrated remote sensing platform that includes various laser radar systems, enhancing data collection capabilities in challenging terrains [7]. Group 4: Future Research and Conservation - The ongoing research aims to understand the optimal types and quantities of trees to plant in various regions, aligning with China's "dual carbon" goals for better ecological benefits [5][9]. - The discovery of exceptionally tall trees, such as a 102.3-meter high Tibetan cypress, highlights the importance of continued exploration and the need to foster a greater appreciation for nature [9][10].