Core Points - The Henan Danjiang Wetland National Nature Reserve has been successfully included as a member of the "China Biosphere Reserve Network," recognizing its ecological value and the achievements of Xichuan County in ecological protection and green development [1][2] - The China Biosphere Reserve Network, part of UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme, aims to promote global biodiversity conservation, ecosystem research, and sustainable development [1] - The reserve covers an area of approximately 64,111 hectares and is rich in biodiversity, serving as an important part of the Danjiangkou Reservoir, which is a key water source for the South-to-North Water Diversion Project [1] Summary by Sections Ecological Achievements - Xichuan County has implemented measures such as water system connectivity, habitat creation, ecological buffer zone construction, and vegetation restoration, completing over 20,000 acres of wetland restoration [2] - A high-standard ecological restoration demonstration area of over 7,000 acres has been established, transforming the wetland from a "single green" to a "colorful beauty" [2] - The reserve has recorded over 2,200 species of vascular plants and more than 500 species of vertebrates, forming a complete wetland ecological chain [2] Bird Species Monitoring - Recent monitoring data over the past three years indicate a continuous increase in bird species within the reserve, including 19 species of national first-class protected birds such as the black stork and the Chinese merganser, as well as over 70 species of second-class protected birds like the gray crane and the bee-eater [2] Future Development Opportunities - Joining the China Biosphere Reserve Network will bring new development opportunities for the Henan Danjiang Wetland National Nature Reserve, allowing Xichuan County to enhance communication and cooperation with domestic and international reserves [2] - The county aims to learn from advanced experiences to continuously improve protection management levels and contribute to national ecological security [2]

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the ecological significance and economic potential of the Zhanjiang mangrove ecosystem, emphasizing its role in biodiversity conservation, climate regulation, and sustainable development through innovative practices like mangrove aquaculture [8][18][60]. Group 1: Ecological Importance - Zhanjiang Mangrove National Nature Reserve is the largest mangrove reserve in China, covering over 20,000 hectares, which accounts for one-fifth of the national mangrove area [17][18]. - The reserve is home to the critically endangered spoon-billed sandpiper, which is one of the largest wintering grounds for this species [18][19]. - Mangroves serve as natural barriers against natural disasters, purifying seawater and regulating climate by absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide [25][30]. Group 2: Biodiversity and Conservation Efforts - The reserve has recorded 314 bird species, including rare waterfowl, indicating a rich biodiversity supported by the mangrove ecosystem [39][88]. - Since 2019, the reserve has created 5,900 acres of new mangrove forests and has implemented various ecological restoration measures [82][90]. - Zhanjiang has established a four-tier protection system for mangroves, including local regulations and a comprehensive restoration plan for 2021-2025 [90][91]. Group 3: Economic Development and Innovation - The integration of mangrove restoration with aquaculture has led to the development of a new economic model, enhancing local livelihoods while preserving the ecosystem [51][60]. - A pilot project in Zhanjiang has successfully combined mangrove planting with aquaculture over an area of approximately 180 acres, achieving a survival rate of 95% for the planted mangroves [55][56]. - The region has seen a rise in eco-tourism, with over 1 million visitors annually, contributing to local economic growth and promoting awareness of mangrove conservation [99][101]. Group 4: Future Prospects - By 2026, Guangdong aims to establish a monitoring system covering key mangrove areas to enhance protection efforts and promote the province as a leader in mangrove conservation [110][108]. - The establishment of the International Mangrove Center in Shenzhen and various carbon trading initiatives reflect a growing commitment to sustainable mangrove management [106][108].