Ecological Environment of Moshan​

Mo Hill, part of Wuhan’s East Lake Ecological Tourism Zone, is renowned as a “green lung” of the city, characterized by dense forests, wetland ecosystems, and rich biodiversity.

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1. Natural Ecological Composition

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• Forest Ecosystem: Over 90% of Mo Hill is covered by vegetation, dominated by evergreen broad-leaved and mixed forests, including native species like camphor trees, sweetgum, and masson pine.

• Wetland Ecosystem: The hillside wetlands connect to East Lake, forming reeds, lotus ponds, and mudflats that serve as habitats for migratory birds and amphibians.

• Ecological Restoration: Since the 1950s, scientific reforestation and land rehabilitation have repaired vegetation damaged by historical quarrying.

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2. Biodiversity

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• Flora: Mo Hill hosts over 2,000 plant species, including signature varieties like cherry blossoms (33 types), plum blossoms (100+ types), and lotuses (traditional “June Flower Goddess” of East Lake). Protected species like dove trees and metasequoia are conserved in designated areas.

• Fauna:

  • Birds: Over 80 species, including egrets, night herons, and mandarin ducks; migratory birds like tundra swans arrive in winter.

  • Insects: Diverse butterflies, including endangered Chinese tiger swallowtails.

  • Aquatic Life: East Lake’s endemic Wuchang bream, turtles, and softshell turtles.

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3. Conservation Efforts

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• Development Restrictions: Commercial construction is banned in core zones; only eco-trails and viewing platforms are permitted.

• Scientific Monitoring: Bird observatories and water quality stations track ecological health.

• Public Engagement: Programs like “East Lake Nature Classes” involve visitors in tree planting and invasive species removal (e.g., apple snails).

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4. Ecological Significance

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• Climate Regulation: Mo Hill’s forests absorb approximately 12,000 tons of CO₂ annually, mitigating urban heat islands.

• Water Conservation: Vegetation reduces siltation in East Lake and enhances water purification.

• Genetic Reservoir: A refuge for endangered species in Central China; metasequoia conservation aids global climate research.

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5. Fun Facts

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1. “Living Fossil”: A 600-year-old ancient plum tree in Mo Hill’s Plum Garden is dubbed “The First Plum of Southern China.”

2. Bird Cafeteria: Staff provide winter grain supplements at feeding stations to support migratory birds.

3. Twin Lotus Rarity: In 2022, a naturally occurring “twin lotus” (one stem, two flowers) bloomed in the Lotus Garden—a 1-in-100,000 phenomenon!

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6. Future Prospects

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• Ecological Corridors: Future plans include wildlife corridors connecting Mo Hill to other East Lake hills to reduce habitat fragmentation.

• Smart Conservation: AI systems will monitor species populations and disease risks.

• Global Recognition: Aiming for UN “Biodiversity 100+ Case” certification to share urban conservation strategies worldwide.

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Eco-Tourism Tips

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• Best Birdwatching: November to March (migratory bird season).

• Eco-Rules: No plant picking or wildlife feeding; biodegradable trash bags recommended.