New Additions to the Global Geological Heritage List
Nanjing, September 6, 2024 — In a significant development for global geological science, the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) has recently listed three remarkable geological sites in China as Geological Heritage Sites. This prestigious recognition highlights the extraordinary scientific and historical value of these sites, which include the Permian vegetation fossils of the Wuda Fossil Site, the Dashanpu Middle Jurassic Dinosaur Fossils Site, and the Guilin Karst formations.
A Deep Dive into the Geological Treasures of China
The three newly designated sites are celebrated for their unparalleled contribution to the understanding of Earth’s geological history. These additions bring the total number of Chinese geological heritage sites to ten, underscoring China’s rich geological legacy.
The Wuda Fossil Site: A Window into Ancient Vegetation
Permian Vegetation Preserved in Volcanic Ash
The Wuda Fossil Site, often referred to as the “Vegetational Pompeii,” is an exceptional example of ancient tropical rainforest preservation. Located in Inner Mongolia, this site boasts a remarkable collection of Permian vegetation, dating back approximately 298 million years.
According to Zhang Jianping, vice-chair of the IUGS International Commission on Geoheritage, the Wuda site is renowned for its incredibly detailed preservation of a prehistoric forest community. The site was formed when a tropical rainforest was buried by volcanic ash, creating a unique tuff bed that showcases the intricate details of ancient plant life.
The fossilized remains of plants at Wuda offer critical insights into the flora that contributed to coal formation and provide a rare glimpse into past ecological communities. Since its discovery in 1998, the site has been the focus of international research, involving experts from the United Kingdom, the United States, the Czech Republic, Germany, and China.
Insights from International Research
An international team of about 30 scientists has published over 60 research papers on the Wuda Fossil Site. These studies have provided invaluable information about the ancient rainforest’s plant species and their role in the coal-forming process. The Wuda site stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and studying geological heritages to enhance our understanding of Earth’s historical ecology.
Dashanpu Dinosaur Fossils: Unearthing the Jurassic Era
A Jurassic Park of Fossil Discoveries
In the southwestern province of Sichuan, the Dashanpu Middle Jurassic Dinosaur Fossils Site has been hailed as a “Jurassic park” due to its extraordinary fossil finds. This site is home to over 200 dinosaur specimens representing 29 species across 26 genera, including sauropods, theropods, and stegosaurs.
Zeng Xiaoyun, curator of the Zigong Dinosaur Museum, describes the site as a “dinosaur quarry and a world wonder.” The fossils found here not only demonstrate a high concentration of Middle Jurassic dinosaurs but also reveal unique bone structures that are crucial for understanding dinosaur behavior and evolution.
Historical and Scientific Significance
Discovered in 1972, the Dashanpu site spans approximately 70,000 square meters and has been the focus of extensive scientific research. The site provides valuable samples for studying dinosaur evolution and their interactions with other vertebrates. Its rich fossil record contributes significantly to the field of paleontology, offering insights into the diverse life forms that inhabited Earth during the Jurassic period.
Guilin Karst: An Artistic and Scientific Gem
A Unique Karst Landscape
The Guilin Karst, located in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is renowned for its striking continental tower and cone karst formations. Shaped by Paleozoic tectonic movements, this site features a unique geomorphological setting that includes extensive karst phenomena, enriched by thick carbonate deposits and a warm, humid climate.
Chen Weihai, deputy chief engineer of the Institute of Karst Geology of the China Geological Survey, highlights the Guilin Karst’s exceptional scientific relevance. The region’s slow tectonic uplift and stable geological conditions provide a valuable opportunity to study karst processes and their environmental impacts.
Cultural and Historical Impact
Research on the Guilin Karst dates back to the 17th century, when the Chinese traveler Xu Xiake explored its numerous caves. Contemporary studies focus on karst dynamics and evolution models, as well as the aesthetic influence of Guilin’s landscapes on Chinese art and literature. The Guilin Karst’s blend of scientific and artistic significance makes it a remarkable site for both geological research and cultural appreciation.
Conclusion
The inclusion of these three Chinese sites in the IUGS Geological Heritage list represents a significant milestone in the global recognition of Earth’s geological history. From the ancient rainforest of Wuda to the dinosaur-rich deposits of Dashanpu and the visually stunning Guilin Karst, these sites offer invaluable insights into our planet’s past and highlight the importance of preserving such geological treasures for future generations.