Introduction to the Yangtze River
The Yangtze River, also known as Chang Jiang in Chinese, is the longest river in Asia and the third-longest in the world, with a length of 6,380 km. It flows from the Tibetan Plateau through eleven provinces and cities in China, and finally empties into the East China Sea. The Yangtze River is not only an important source of drinking water, transportation, and electricity for millions of people, but it is also a unique ecosystem that supports a rich diversity of plant and animal life.
Overview of the animals in the Yangtze River
The Yangtze River is home to more than 400 species of fish, 1500 species of plants, and over 350 species of vertebrates, making it one of the most biologically diverse river systems in the world. Many of the animals in the Yangtze River are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else on earth. Unfortunately, many of these species are also endangered, with some facing extinction.
The critically endangered Yangtze Finless Porpoise
The Yangtze Finless Porpoise, also known as the "river pig" or "smiling face of the Yangtze," is one of the most threatened mammals in the world. It is found only in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and its tributaries. The population of Yangtze Finless Porpoise has declined by more than 80% in the last few decades due to habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing.
The Chinese paddlefish: extinct species
The Chinese Paddlefish, also known as the "Giant Panda of the Yangtze," was once one of the largest freshwater fish in the world. However, it was declared extinct in 2020 after no sightings for more than a decade. The decline of the Chinese Paddlefish was due to overfishing, habitat loss, and dam construction.
The Chinese sturgeon: another endangered species
The Chinese Sturgeon, also known as the "King of the Yangtze," is one of the world’s largest and longest-living freshwater fish. It is also one of the most endangered fish in the world, with a population decline of more than 90% in the last few decades. The decline of the Chinese Sturgeon is due to overfishing, habitat loss, pollution, and dam construction.
The Yangtze alligator: a fascinating reptile
The Yangtze Alligator, also known as the "Yangtze Crocodile," is the only species of alligator found outside of the Americas. It is found only in a few areas of the Yangtze River and its tributaries. The Yangtze Alligator is an endangered species, with a population decline of more than 90% in the last few decades due to habitat loss, pollution, and overhunting.
The Chinese softshell turtle: a unique species
The Chinese Softshell Turtle, also known as the "Leatherback Turtle," is a unique species of turtle found only in the Yangtze River basin. It is an important food source for local communities, but its population has declined due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution.
The Chinese water deer: a rare sight in the river
The Chinese Water Deer, also known as the "Venison of the Yangtze," is a rare mammal found only in a few areas of the Yangtze River and its tributaries. It is a shy and elusive animal, and is rarely seen in the wild.
The Yangtze giant softshell turtle: a rare species
The Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle, also known as the "Red River Turtle," is one of the largest freshwater turtles in the world. It is found only in a few areas of the Yangtze River and its tributaries, and is critically endangered due to habitat loss and overhunting.
The Chinese river dolphin: extinct species
The Chinese River Dolphin, also known as the "Baiji," was one of the most endangered mammals in the world. It was found only in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, but was declared extinct in 2006 due to habitat loss, pollution, and overfishing.
The Yangtze carp: the most important fish species
The Yangtze Carp, also known as the "Chinese River Carp," is the most important fish species in the Yangtze River. It is an important source of food for local communities, and is also farmed commercially.
The diversity of fish species in the Yangtze River
The Yangtze River is home to more than 400 fish species, including the Chinese Paddlefish, Chinese Sturgeon, and Yangtze Carp. Other fish species found in the river include the Chinese Catfish, Yellow Catfish, and Chinese Mitten Crab. Unfortunately, many of these fish species are endangered due to overfishing, habitat loss, and pollution. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these species and their habitats.
