China fruitful in protecting wetlands
( 2001-08-22 08:34 ) (8 )

China, with the largest area of wetlands in Asia, has been successful in protecting wetlands and its more than 20 research results have been included in the world wetlands research database.

China joined the Convention on Wetlands in 1992 and Secretary General Delmar Blasco, in his recent article commemorating the 30th anniversary of the founding of the convention, described China as a respectable member of the convention.

During a symposium on waterfowl recently held here in Tianjin, participating experts all expressed appreciation for China's efforts after visiting a dozen wetlands under protection.

After careful examination, scientists found that China has 15. 94 million hectares of wetlands, the most in Asia and the fourth largest amount worldwide. Meanwhile the number of wetland plant, animal and fish species are estimated at 5,000, 3,200 and 770 respectively.

Research results show that the number of birds migrating via China has increased over the past five consecutive years and the period that east Asia bird species stay in China has extended to as long as half a year.

Certain unique wetland animal, plant or fish species like the giant panda, golden monkey, dawn redwood and Chinese alligator have also received scientific protection.