Ancient dove trees discovered in Dalaoling reserve
2024-05-14 17:05:56
Translator and English Editor: Chen Zai
Chinese Editor: Zhang Fan
Correspondent: Tian Fenglei, Tan Yan
Chinese Editor: Zhang Fan
Correspondent: Tian Fenglei, Tan Yan
Workers at the Dalaoling National Nature Reserve recently found 30 ancient dove trees (davidia involucrate) during a forest patrol. Twenty of these trees have a diameter of over 30 centimeters at breast height, with the largest one measuring more than 50 cm.
Some of the dove trees discovered this time.
The dove tree, a relic from the Quaternary glaciation, has survived to the present day. It is renowned as a "living fossil" in the plant world and is classified as a National Class 1 Protected wild plant in China.
As shown in the picture, the dark spherical part is the flower of the dove tree, and the two white petal-like structures are the bracts.
Yichang's pivotal role in the discovery and distribution of dove trees began in 1900. British botanist Ernest Henry Wilson identified a community of dove trees in Yichang's Leyuan Village. He then introduced the species to Britain, making Yichang the origin of dove trees in Europe and America.
The Daolaoling National Nature Reserve, located in Yiling District of Yichang City, has an area of 14,225 hectares, with 98 percent of the area covered by forest. This reserve serves as a sanctuary for rare and endangered flora and fauna. The reserve will focus on systematic research and preservation of these ancient trees in the upcoming phase.
Vista of the Dalaoling National Nature Reserve in Yiling District of Yichang City.
