Wilderness Explorations, Ep.2: Yangtze River

In Yichang, enchanting landscapes meet vibrant urban life. Rivers and mountains intertwine, breathing life into a city with a long history. People have lived here for generations, nurturing the ecological wonder.

The video series "Wilderness Exploration” offers a glimpse into how this city fosters a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

As one of the world's largest rivers, the Yangtze River's ecological protection has garnered international attention. In Episode 2, the team visits the Yangtze River Rare Fish Breeding Base to learn about the Chinese sturgeon.

As one of Earth's oldest vertebrates, the Chinese sturgeon has existed for over 100 million years. Classified as a first-class protected wildlife species in China and a symbol for the conservation of rare fish unique to the Yangtze River, it is often referred to as "the panda of the water."

The Chinese sturgeon is not only the largest freshwater fish but also has one of the longest lifespans, with some individuals growing to weigh over 500 kilograms. Despite their size, they are known for their gentle nature.

However, natural populations of Chinese sturgeon began declining significantly in the late 20th century. In 2010, it was classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. To restore wild populations, artificial breed and release programs have been organized. Over several years, China Three Gorges Corporation, which runs the rare fish breeding base, has released over six million sturgeons back into their natural habitat.