Publications
Camellia shangshii (Theaceae), a new species endemic to danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China
Researchers have identified Camellia shangshii, a new species of tea plant endemic to the danxia landscapes of Danxiashan Mountain, Guangdong Province, China. This discovery was confirmed through morphological analysis and phylogenetic studies using chloroplast genomes, revealing that C. shangshii is closely related to C. grijsii but distinguished by unique traits such as connate petals at the base, smaller leaves, and fewer bracteoles and sepals. The study integrates both genetic and physical characteristics to validate its recognition as a new species within the Camellia sect. Paracamellia. This finding contributes to the understanding of biodiversity in UNESCO-listed danxia landscapes and highlights the importance of these unique geological formations as hotspots for plant endemism.
Responses of soil labile organic carbon stocks and the carbon pool management index to different vegetation restoration types in the Danxia landform region of southwest China
Vegetation restoration significantly enhances soil organic carbon (SOC) and its labile fractions, with bamboo forest (BF) and evergreen broad-leaved forest (EBF) showing the highest carbon sequestration potential in the Danxia landform region of southwest China. These vegetation types exhibited higher total SOC stocks (92.75 t ha⁻¹ for BF and 60.13 t ha⁻¹ for EBF) compared to other restoration types, along with elevated dissolved organic carbon (DOC), microbial biomass organic carbon (MBC), and easily oxidizable organic carbon (EOC). The study also found that the carbon pool management index (CPMI) increased by 49.7% in BF and 32.9% in EBF compared to shrub (SH), indicating superior carbon storage efficiency. SOC and its fractions were closely linked to soil physicochemical properties, with total nitrogen, phosphorus, and moisture playing a crucial role. These findings underscore the importance of selecting appropriate vegetation types for ecological restoration to maximize carbon sequestration and improve soil quality.
Camellia zijinica (Theaceae), a new species endemic to Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China
Researchers have identified Camellia zijinica, a new species of the genus Camellia endemic to the Danxia landscape in Guangdong Province, China. This discovery was supported by both morphological and molecular analyses, including phylogenetic analysis based on chloroplast genomes. While closely related to species like C. drupifera, C. oleifera, and C. fluviatilis, Camellia zijinica exhibits distinct characteristics such as glabrous young branchlets, fewer bracteoles and sepals, diverse leaf shape, and a midvein that is slightly raised with sparse or no pubescence. These traits set it apart from its closest relative, C. microphylla, which typically features densely pubescent branchlets and leaves. The study highlights the biodiversity of the Danxia landscape and contributes to the understanding of the genus Camellia, particularly within the section Paracamellia.
Description of a new species of freshwater shrimp (Decapoda: Caridea: Atyidae) from Mount Danxia, Guangdong, China, based on morphological and molecular evidence
Researchers have identified a new species of freshwater shrimp, Caridina danxiaensis, from the UNESCO-listed Danxia Mountain National Nature Reserve in Guangdong, China. This discovery was supported by both morphological and molecular evidence, distinguishing it from other known Caridina species through unique characteristics such as its rostrum, stylocerite, and uropodal diaeresis. Genetic analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed a sequence divergence of 5.7% between C. danxiaensis and its closest relative, C. clinata, further confirming its distinctiveness.
Didymocarpus pingyuanensis (Gesneriaceae), a new species endemic to Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China, and two new combinations in Didymocarpus
Researchers have identified Didymocarpus pingyuanensis, a new species of flowering plant endemic to the Danxia landscape in Pingyuan County, Guangdong Province, China. This discovery was supported by phylogenetic analysis using nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences and morphological evidence. The study also proposes two new combinations, elevating D. yinzhengii and D. gamosepalus from varieties to species status within the Didymocarpus genus. The new species is distinguished by its deeply 5-lobed calyx, which reaches about three quarters of its length, a trait not seen in other members of Didymocarpus sect. Heteroboea.
Formation mechanisms of Qiaoba-Zhongdu Danxia landforms in southwestern Sichuan Province, China
Qiaoba-Zhongdu Danxia landforms, located in southwestern Sichuan Province, China, have been identified as being in the mature stage of their evolutionary process. This study reveals that their formation involves a complex interplay of sedimentation, paleo-environmental conditions, tectonic activity, geomorphological agents, and human activities. Researchers employed a multidisciplinary approach, integrating sedimentology, paleo-climatology, tectono-dynamics, and surface process dynamics, alongside advanced techniques such as remote-sensing imagery interpretation, rock and ore identification, geochemical analysis, and seismic profile interpretation. These methods collectively provided a comprehensive understanding of the landforms' development stages and the dynamic factors shaping their unique characteristics.
Gap analysis of Firmiana danxiaensis, a rare tree species endemic to southern China
A gap analysis reveals that over 78% of the potential habitat for Firmiana danxiaensis, a rare tree species endemic to southern China's Mount Danxia, lacks conservation protection. Using Biomod2 and Maxent models, researchers estimated its habitat at 6,255.28 km² and 4,114.19 km² respectively, with key climatic preferences including high temperature seasonality (6000–7000) and warmest-month maxima of 36–37°C. Alarming anthropogenic disturbances affect over 40% of its habitat, particularly in unprotected areas like Yingde and Shixing. The study urges adjustments to existing reserves and expansion of protected zones to safeguard this vulnerable species.
Landform and lithospheric development contribute to the assembly of mountain floras in China
Mountain floras in China exhibit distinct assembly patterns influenced by geological processes. Research reveals that igneous bedrock, such as granitic and karst-granitic landforms, fosters higher species richness and phylogenetic overdispersion, while sedimentary bedrock, including karst, Danxia, and desert landforms, promotes phylogenetic clustering. The study, based on a dataset of 17,576 angiosperm species across 140 Chinese mountain floras, demonstrates that landform type is the primary determinant for older species, whereas climate plays a greater role in younger species. This finding challenges traditional views and introduces the 'floristic geo-lithology hypothesis,' which emphasizes the critical role of bedrock and landform processes in shaping montane biodiversity. The research provides new insights into speciation, migration, and biodiversity dynamics in mountainous regions.
Lysimachia danxiashanensis, a new species of Primulaceae from Guangdong, China
A new species of Primulaceae, Lysimachia danxiashanensis, has been discovered in the unique Danxia landscape of Guangdong Province, China. This endemic plant is morphologically distinct from its closest relatives, characterized by purplish-red plants, wingless petioles, an orange glandular calyx, and a serrated corolla margin with orange-red glandular punctates. Phylogenetic analysis using ITS and rbcL sequences confirmed its status as a distinct clade within Lysimachia subgen. Lysimachia sect. Nummularia. The species is classified as Endangered (EN) under the IUCN Red List, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts in its native habitat.
Oxalis xishuiensis (Oxalidaceae), a new species from Danxia landforms in Guizhou, China
Researchers have identified Oxalis xishuiensis, a new species of Oxalidaceae, from the Danxia landforms in Xishui County, Guizhou, China. This discovery is notable for its distinct morphological traits compared to its closest relative, O. wulingensis, including nearly square-shaped lateral leaflets, shorter peduncles, elongated capsules (1.2–1.5 cm), and alveolate seeds. The study highlights the botanical diversity of Danxia landforms, which are renowned for their colorful rock formations and unique ecosystems. The identification was based on detailed morphological comparisons, emphasizing the importance of field surveys in uncovering new species within protected natural sites like UNESCO World Heritage areas.
Sustainability Assessment of Geotourism Consumption Based on Energy–Water–Waste–Economic Nexus: Evidence from Zhangye Danxia National Geopark
A novel sustainability assessment model reveals that geotourism at Zhangye Danxia National Geopark, part of China's UNESCO-listed Danxia Landforms, can enhance economic and social benefits while managing environmental impacts. The study finds that elderly tourists, children, and high-income visitors contribute more to sustainable geotourism, with longer stays and higher energy consumption initially negatively affecting sustainability but diminishing in impact as tourism consumption levels improve. Positive drivers include tourism expenditure, travel mode, and ecological awareness, while new energy technologies are highlighted for promoting green development. This research provides a framework for assessing geoheritage sustainability and informs policy recommendations for balanced growth.
The complete chloroplast genome of Semiaquilegia danxiashanensis (Ranunculaceae), a rare species endemic to Danxia landform in Guangdong, China
Researchers have sequenced the complete chloroplast genome of Semiaquilegia danxiashanensis, a rare plant endemic to China's Danxia landform, revealing its genetic structure and evolutionary relationships. The 160,548 bp genome exhibits a typical quadripartite organization with distinct large single-copy (LSC), small single-copy (SSC), and inverted repeat (IR) regions, containing 133 genes. Phylogenetic analysis positioned S. danxiashanensis as sister to S. adoxoides, while confirming its close affinity with Urophysa and Aquilegia within the Ranunculaceae family. This study provides foundational data for understanding the evolutionary history of Semiaquilegia and offers insights into the genetic adaptation of species endemic to the unique Danxia landform.
A new species of Sedum (Crassulaceae) from Mount Danxia in Guangdong, China
Scientists have identified Sedum jinglanii, a new species of Crassulaceae native to Mount Danxia, Guangdong, China. Phylogenetic analysis using the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nuclear ribosomal DNA places this species within S. sect. Sedum and reveals it as sister to a clade comprising S. alfredi and S. emarginatum with strong statistical support. Morphologically, S. jinglanii differs from its closest relatives by distinct traits such as opposite leaves, shorter petals, nectar scales, carpels, and styles, as well as a short, erect or ascending rhizome. These findings expand the taxonomic knowledge of Sedum species in the region and highlight the biodiversity significance of Mount Danxia.
Color Origin of Red Beds within the Danxia Basin, Southern China
Research reveals that the striking color variations in China's Danxia Basin—ranging from reddish-brown to reddish-purple—are not linked to paleoclimate records but instead stem from differences in sediment sources during diagenesis. The study, using advanced techniques like electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, identified fine hematite as the primary reddening agent, with goethite present only in reddish-brown layers. Vertical color shifts result from the alteration of iron-bearing detrital grains rather than environmental changes. This finding challenges the use of sedimentary facies color as a paleoclimate indicator and offers new insights into the formation of thick continental red beds globally.
Commelina danxiaensis (Commelinaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China
A new species of Commelina, named Commelina danxiaensis, has been discovered on Mount Danxia in Guangdong Province, China. This plant stands out due to its nearly erect stems, larger flowers, and distinct petal coloration compared to the similar C. communis. The discovery was documented through detailed morphological analysis and illustrated descriptions, providing a significant addition to the region's flora. The research highlights the biodiversity of Mount Danxia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique geological formations and diverse ecosystems.
Ilex danxiaensis (Aquifoliaceae), a Distinct New Tree Species Endemic to Danxia Mountain in Guangdong Province, China, Based on Molecular and Morphological Evidence
Researchers have identified Ilex danxiaensis, a distinct new tree species within the holly family (Aquifoliaceae), endemic to Danxia Mountain in Guangdong Province, China. This discovery was made during biodiversity investigations of the UNESCO-listed Danxia landform. The study employed molecular and morphological analyses, including sequences from nuclear markers (ITS, ETS, nepGS) and examination of floral traits, revealing that I. danxiaensis is closely related to species in the Ilex sect. Lioprinos clade but distinguishable by unique characteristics such as puberulent branchlets, 1–3-flowered male cymes, and distinct pyrene morphology. The findings contribute to understanding holly diversity in subtropical ecosystems.
Petrocodon wui (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Guizhou, China
Scientists have identified Petrocodon wui, a new species of Gesneriaceae plant endemic to the Danxia landscapes of northwestern Guizhou, China. This lithophyte, characterized by its elongated rhizome and distinct morphological traits—such as elongated peduncle indumentum, unique calyx lobe shape, stamen placement within the corolla tube, and stigma features—differs significantly from its sister species, P. chishuiensis. Molecular evidence supports this classification, distinguishing it from other morphologically similar Petrocodon species. The discovery contributes to the understanding of biodiversity in UNESCO-listed Danxia sites, with detailed taxonomic notes, images, and comparisons provided for scientific reference.
The origin and dispersal of Firmiana danxiaensis among isolated specific landscapes
Research reveals that Firmiana danxiaensis, a tree species endemic to China's Danxia and Karst landscapes, originated from Mount Danxia and the Nanxiong Basin before dispersing to nearby Karst sites and returning to its origin. This cyclical pattern, supported by plastid genome analysis and RAD-seq data, suggests limited seed and pollen dispersal capabilities, contributing to strong population structure within these isolated landscapes. Ecological niche modeling indicates that the species once thrived across southeastern China during the last glacial period but retreated to cliffs due to rising temperatures and competition. Declining effective population size postglacial hints at the impact of global warming, agriculture, and industrialization on its survival, underscoring the need for conservation measures.
Vegetation restoration of abandoned cropland improves soil ecosystem multifunctionality through alleviating nitrogen-limitation in the China Danxia
Vegetation restoration of abandoned cropland (AC) in the China Danxia World Heritage Site alleviates nitrogen limitation, enhancing soil ecosystem multifunctionality. The study found that both naturally restored secondary forests (NF) and artificially planted forests (AF) exhibited higher carbon (C) and phosphorus (P) acquiring enzyme activities compared to AC, indicating rapid C and P turnover rates post-restoration. However, the restoration also increased microbial demand for C, shifting microorganisms from nitrogen-limited (< 45°) to phosphorus-limited (> 45°) conditions, with NF exacerbating this shift more than AF. The variation in soil extracellular enzyme stoichiometry (EES) was primarily driven by interactions among pH, soil nutrients, and microbial biomass, suggesting a complex regulation of microbial nutrient limitation. These findings highlight the potential for vegetation restoration to improve soil ecosystem health through nutrient management strategies.
Asplenium danxiaense sp. nov. (Aspleniaceae, Aspleniineae), a new tetraploid fern species from Guangdong, China, based on morphological and molecular data
Researchers have identified a new tetraploid fern species, Asplenium danxiaense, within the A. coenobiale complex from the Danxia landform in Guangdong, China. This discovery was supported by detailed morphological and molecular analyses, including sequencing of five chloroplast markers and one nuclear marker. The new species is distinguished by its narrowly triangular to lanceolate scales, fertile segments that are scarce, and spores exceeding 50 µm in length. It also exhibits significant molecular differences from other species in the complex. The study combines cytological and phylogenetic data to confirm this novel taxonomic entity, contributing to our understanding of fern diversity in the region.
Effects of Forest Vegetation Restoration on Soil Organic Carbon and Its Labile Fractions in the Danxia Landform of China
Bamboo forests (BF) exhibit the strongest carbon storage capacity among vegetation types in China's Danxia landform, outperforming Chinese fir forests (CFF), evergreen broad-leaved forests (EBF), mixed conifer–broadleaf forests (MCBF), and shrublands (SH). This finding is based on a study analyzing soil organic carbon (SOC) and its labile fractions—dissolved organic carbon (DOC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and easily oxidized organic carbon (EOC)—across five vegetation restoration types. Researchers found that BF and CFF had higher SOC and EOC concentrations, while BF also led in DOC content. MBC was significantly greater in BF and EBF. Soil total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and invertase activity emerged as key drivers of carbon accumulation, with SOC and its fractions positively correlated with these factors but negatively affected by soil pH and bulk density (BD) in most cases. The study provides critical insights for ecosystem management and restoration strategies in Danxia regions.
Geodiversity characterization of the Danxiashan UNESCO Global Geopark of China
Danxiashan, a UNESCO Global Geopark in South China, stands out for its exceptional geodiversity and distinctive danxia landscape, characterized by red beds of Late Cretaceous origin. These sedimentary layers, deposited in alluvial fan and desert environments within a faulted continental basin, were uplifted during the Himalayan orogenic cycle, creating prominent escarpments, mesas, peaks, cliffs, canyons, rock walls, and pillars. The study employed field investigations and literature reviews to document this geodiversity, revealing the complex interplay of tectonic forces, weathering, water erosion, and rockfalls that shaped the landscape. Recognized as part of the World Heritage 'China Danxia' sites, Danxiashan serves as a model for geotourism and geoeducation strategies, offering valuable insights into the geodynamics of South China during the late Mesozoic era.
Pilea danxiaensis (Urticaceae), a new species in the Danxia landform from Guangdong, China including a description of the entire chloroplast genome
Researchers have identified and described Pilea danxiaensis, a new species of Urticaceae native to the Danxia landform in Guangdong, China. Phylogenetic analysis using three DNA regions (ITS, trnL-F, and rbcL) confirms its placement within P. sect. Pilea, with morphological similarities to P. sinocrassifolia and P. peploides. The study also presents a detailed annotation of the species' chloroplast genome, which spans 151,857 base pairs and includes 113 functional genes. Conservation assessment classifies P. danxiaensis as Least Concern (LC), highlighting its stability in the wild.
Soil Organic Nitrogen Components and N−Cycling Enzyme Activities Following Vegetation Restoration of Cropland in Danxia Degraded Region
Vegetation restoration significantly improves soil organic nitrogen (SON) components and enhances N-cycling enzyme activities in the ecologically fragile Danxia degraded region (DDR), offering a promising strategy for soil quality recovery. The study found that restoring cropland to grassland, shrubland, or arbor forest increased amino sugar N and amino acid N while reducing non-hydrolyzable N, with grassland restoration proving most effective for boosting SON levels and N-fixation capacity. Restoration also elevated key enzyme activities such as nitrate reductase, denitrifying enzymes, protease, and β-1,4-N-acetylglucosaminidase, alongside microbial biomass, indicating an enhanced intrinsic soil nitrogen cycle. These changes were linked to the mineralization and fixation of organic matter via amorphous iron and proteases, ultimately improving available soil nitrogen. The findings provide a scientific foundation for optimizing vegetation restoration practices in degraded regions like China Danxia.
Study on the Characteristics and Utilization of the Danxia Geoheritage in Northwest China: Implication on Popularly Scientific Education and Undergraduate Teaching
Human activities are significantly impacting the geoheritage of Tianfusha Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in China Danxia, despite its primarily natural evolutionary origins. The study reveals that environmental factors have historically shaped this site, but recent human interventions are altering its geological characteristics. It highlights the site's high scientific research value, tourism potential, and educational significance, emphasizing the need for government-led conservation efforts and public education initiatives to balance geotourism development with geoconservation. A theoretical framework is proposed to integrate geoheritage into undergraduate geological teaching, combining theoretical studies with practical applications to enhance learning outcomes. This approach can guide future conservation programs and maximize societal value.
Wikstroemia fragrans (Thymelaeaceae, Daphneae), a new species from Mount Danxia, China based on morphological and molecular evidence
Scientists have identified Wikstroemia fragrans, a new species of plant endemic to the UNESCO-listed Danxiashan National Park, China. This discovery, confirmed through morphological and molecular analysis—including nuclear DNA ITS sequencing—reveals it as closely related to Wikstroemia capitata within the Wikstroemia clade. Distinctive features such as its shorter racemose inflorescences, yellowish-green calyx tube, and strigose-pubescent ovary set it apart from sympatric and allopatric relatives like W. trichotoma and W. fargesii. The species is provisionally classified as Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List), marking the first Wikstroemia species confirmed to be endemic to China's Danxia landform, a globally significant geological formation.
Internal Cause Analysis of Damage of Wooden Components in Danxia Temple Ancient Architectures: Tree Species
A study of degraded wooden components from Danxia Temple's ancient architectures reveals that four tree species—Quercus, Ulmus, Salix, and Populus—were primarily damaged by fungal decay. Quercus spp. suffered severe cellulose loss due to brown rot fungi, while Ulmus spp. experienced degradation of both cellulose and lignin by white rot fungi. All four species were also highly susceptible to insect attacks. The research used bright field microscopy along with polarized and fluorescence light observations to analyze cell wall compositions, providing insights into the internal causes of wood damage in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Strong Genetic Structure Observed in Primulina danxiaensis, a Small Herb Endemic to Mount Danxia With Extremely Small Populations
A study on Primulina danxiaensis, a rare herb endemic to China's Mount Danxiareveals strong genetic structure and limited gene flow among its 12 populations. Using restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq), researchers detected low genetic diversity with expected heterozygosity ranging from 0.017 to 0.139, indicating potential bottleneck effects. Phylogenetic analysis further divided the populations into four distinct gene pools, correlating closely with geographic distances. Notably, one positively selected locus linked to tRNAGlu may contribute to the species' adaptation to shaded environments. These findings underscore the importance of geographic isolation in shaping genetic diversity and highlight the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this threatened endemic species.
A new species of Primulina (Gesneriaceae) from Danxia landform in Jiangxi, China
Researchers have identified and described a new species of Primulina (Gesneriaceae), named P. inflata, from the Danxia landform in Jiangxi, China. This discovery was made through detailed morphological observations and comparisons with existing species, particularly P. xiuningensis. The new species is distinguished by its white corolla adorned with purple-red stripes, an inflated tubular corolla tube, and straight filaments. These characteristics set it apart from related species, contributing valuable insights to the botanical diversity of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique geological formations.
The Spatial Patterns of Red Beds and Danxia Landforms: Implication for the formation factors–China
A clustered distribution pattern of Danxia landforms, concentrated primarily in Southeast China, the Sichuan Basin, and the Qilian-Liupan regions, was identified through spatial analysis. The study, which analyzed 1,100 Danxia sites and their relationship with red beds across China, revealed that these landforms cover approximately 9.5% of the country's land area. Using geological and tectonic maps alongside ArcGIS software, researchers performed adjacent index calculations and Thiessen polygon analyses to map the spatial patterns and assess the influence of tectonics on Danxia formation. The findings highlight the significant role of geological elements in shaping these distinctive landscapes.
Stone pillar rockfall in Danxia landform area, Mt. Langshan, Hunan Province, China
A significant rockfall event at the UNESCO World Heritage site of China Danxia, specifically at Mt. Langshan, was triggered by the rapid weathering and retreat of soft, intercalated rock layers within the Lanlong Formation. This process altered the stress state within the rock body, leading to compressive or tensile stresses exceeding the rock's strength limits, resulting in partial or complete collapse. The study analyzed 44 sandstone and conglomerate cores from the formation, assessing their mechanical properties, resistance to sulfuric acid, and freezing-thawing effects, while also examining rock slices under a polarizing microscope. A 3D finite-element model was used to reconstruct the pre-collapse geometry and restraint conditions of the stone pillar, providing insights into the stress dynamics that led to its failure.
Morphometric Analyses of Danxia Landforms in Relation to Bedrock Geology: A Case of Mt. Danxia, Guangdong Province, China
A study of Mt. Danxia, Guangdong Province, China, reveals that the morphometric characteristics of Danxia landforms—marked by red-colored sandstones and steep cliffs—are significantly influenced by lithology and fault systems. Using GIS-based geomorphometric analyses of 42 watersheds, researchers found that hypsometric integrals (HI) reflect lithological differences between eastern and western parts of the area, while stream length gradients and Hack profiles indicate strong fault control over stream direction. This work provides a detailed quantitative assessment of Danxia landforms, offering insights into their erosional evolution and geological controls.
You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > China Danxia