Imagine stepping into a living green ocean, where towering trees and vibrant lifeforms stretch as far as your eyes can see. On Hainan Island, China’s southern paradise, lies a treasure trove of biodiversity that feels straight out of a fantasy game. 🌿🦋
Earlier this year in May 2025, Hainan Province, designated as China’s National Ecological Civilization Pilot Zone, unveiled an amazing haul of discoveries: two species entirely new to science, 35 species recorded in China for the first time, and 71 species documented on the island for the first time ever. Talk about leveling up the island’s life catalog!
At the heart of this adventure is Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park—the largest, best-preserved tropical rainforest on any continental island in China. Spanning nearly one-eighth of Hainan’s land area, the park is a real-life Hogwarts of the wild. Among its superstar residents is the sinuous chanterelle (Craterellus sinuosus), a fungus species recorded for the first time in the world.
Whether you’re a student mapping the next biodiversity hotspot, a professional seeking eco-innovation insights, or an explorer planning your next journey, Hainan’s rainforests are calling. Pack your bags and your curiosity—this island adventure promises discoveries around every mossy turn! 🌏✈️
Reference(s):
Rainforest travelogue: Inside Hainan's incredible biodiversity
cgtn.com
