Core Viewpoint - The last baobab tree in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, is at risk of being cut down due to land development, prompting environmentalists to take action to protect it [1][3]. Group 1: Environmental Significance - The baobab tree, known as the "Tree of Life," holds significant cultural importance in the region and is referred to as the "African treasure tree" due to its robust trunk and edible fruits and leaves [1][3]. - The tree is approximately 100 years old and is located near the old city center ferry terminal, making it a symbol of the city [3]. Group 2: Development Threat - The land on which the baobab tree stands is owned by a state-owned enterprise, and it is set to be sold to a private developer in 2024, leading to concerns about the tree's fate as construction is imminent [3]. - Local merchants currently sell fabrics on this land, indicating economic activity that may conflict with conservation efforts [3]. Group 3: Conservation Efforts - Environmentalist Mangali has established a plant protection organization to lead efforts in saving the baobab tree [3]. - The director of the Congolese Tourism Board, Mukubu, has expressed support for the conservation efforts, emphasizing the tree's representation of "the strength of Congolese culture" and its historical significance [3].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significance of the Chinese Water Leek as a critically endangered plant species, emphasizing its ecological importance and the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect it [2][4]. Group 1: Conservation Efforts - A research team from Wuhan University discovered the Chinese Water Leek over 30 years ago, leading to increased attention and conservation efforts [4]. - Since 2019, the Xin'anjiang Forest Farm has been responsible for the protection of the Chinese Water Leek, creating a 60 square meter nursery for its cultivation [4]. - In 2020, 993 plants were collected from their native habitat and relocated for protection and breeding, achieving a survival rate of over 95% in their new environment by 2022 [4][5]. Group 2: Habitat and Growth Conditions - The Chinese Water Leek thrives in a specific environment characterized by clean water sources, with the Xin'anjiang water maintaining a constant temperature of 17°C and meeting national drinking water standards [2][4]. - The plant reproduces through spores rather than seeds, relying on water flow and birds for its propagation, and is highly sensitive to environmental conditions [2][4]. Group 3: Future Research and Collaboration - The Xin'anjiang Forest Farm is now the only demonstration site for the relocation and protection of the Chinese Water Leek in Zhejiang Province [6]. - There is a need for further research on the plant's ecological relationships and conservation methods, with hopes to collaborate with more research teams to ensure the survival of this endangered species [6].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the conservation efforts for the critically endangered Baishanzu fir, emphasizing its ecological significance and the ongoing work to protect and cultivate this unique species in the Baishanzu National Park [1][2][3] Group 1: Conservation Efforts - The Baishanzu fir is a relic plant from the Quaternary glacial period and is listed as one of the 12 most endangered plants globally by the World Conservation Union [1] - Conservationists have been engaged in long-term protection and cultivation efforts since the species was first discovered in 1963, including techniques like grafting and artificial pollination [1] - Over 5,000 Baishanzu fir seedlings have been successfully cultivated and returned to the wild, showcasing the success of these conservation initiatives [3] Group 2: Ecological Importance - The Baishanzu National Park hosts a well-preserved subtropical forest ecosystem, serving as a habitat for numerous rare and endangered species [2] - The park is recognized as one of the richest areas in China for wild large fungi genetic resources, highlighting its biodiversity [2] - A comprehensive monitoring and protection system has been established in the park, utilizing advanced technology to safeguard ecological and species resources [2]