China - Fujian Minjiang River Estuary: The ecotone between marine and terrestrial biogeographical regions

"As the largest independent water system in Fujian Province, Minjiang River is also a relatively large independent water system along the southeast coast of China. Most of the tributaries in the upper reaches of Minjiang River originate from Wuyi Mountains. The middle reaches flow through a large area of red sandstone and granite denudation area. The river finally flows into the East China Sea in the northeast of Changle District, Fuzhou. Minjiang River Basin has outstanding universal value in terms of natural beauty, geological landform, biological and ecological processes, as well as biodiversity, which have been recognized internationally. Wuyishan World Cultural and Natural Heritage and Fujian Taining Area of China Danxia World Natural Heritage are located in the Minjiang River Basin. Moreover, Minjiang River Estuary lies at a special position in biogeographic division. Wetlands and the surrounding offshore waters at Minjiang River Estuary provide key habitats for a variety of globally endangered species, especially migratory birds. Under the joint action of natural forces and human activities in recent millennia, the wetlands and offshore areas here still accommodate rich and unique biodiversity, and have become the foundation for the survival of various migratory birds in the EAAF, various large marine animals migrating offshore in the northwest Pacific and the fishery-agricultural traditional communities living in coastal areas. The wetlands and sea at Minjiang River Estuary comprise a special place, where a great river with rich outstanding universal value flows into the Pacific Ocean, and also connects two terrestrial and two marine ecoregions. More importantly, it is a place which can not only allow the people to catch a glimpse of the active natural evolution process in the eastern coast of China, but also make it possible for people to explore the ways to achieve coexistence with the terrestrial and marine ecosystems and realize sustainable development."

Source: UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List