Hundreds of “Living Fossil” Dove Trees Discovered in Fengdu, Chongqing

A recent field survey conducted by Southwest University and the Qiyue Mountain Forest Farm in Fengdu County uncovered multiple wild populations of the rare Dove Tree, marking the first recorded discovery of this species in the region.

Wild Dove Trees

Blooming Dove Tree Flowers

Wild Dove Tree Population

During the blooming season, clusters of Dove Trees stood tall, their white flower bracts fluttering like doves among the verdant mountains and forests. Experts from Southwest University conducted on-site evaluations and estimated the population consists of several hundred trees. This discovery holds substantial scientific value for research on biological evolution and regional ecological succession.

A representative from the Fengdu County Forestry Department stated that the county will deepen cooperation with academic institutions to systematically survey the distribution and conservation status of Dove Tree populations. Meanwhile, plans are underway to apply for the establishment of a protected area. Measures such as setting up monitoring stations and implementing ecological restoration efforts will be taken to create a robust ecological protection system for this rare species.