China launches first national mangrove germplasm resource bank in Beihai

(ECNS) -- Construction has begun on China’s first national mangrove germplasm resource bank in Beihai City, located in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, according to a local forestry announcement on Thursday.

 Golden Bay Mangrove Ecotourism Area in Beihai City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (Courtesy of the Administration Office of Beihai Binhai National Wetland Park)

The project, part of a national ecological conservation and restoration program, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

It will include three key zones: an in-situ germplasm conservation area, a germplasm propagation trial area, and a research and experimental area.

As the country’s first national repository for mangrove germplasm, the bank plays a critical role in preserving genetic resources, supporting biodiversity, advancing the screening, cultivation, and promotion of mangrove species.

Beihai has prioritized mangrove conservation in recent years through targeted protection and restoration initiative. Efforts include grid-based and digital monitoring systems, along with public awareness campaigns, which have helped expand the local mangrove ecosystem.

The total mangrove area in Beihai now spans 4,636 hectares, making it the second-largest in China.