Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG) of CAS – 西双版纳热带林植物园 was founded in 1959 in Menglun, Xishuangbanna. It is a comprehensive research institution dedicated to scientific research, species preservation, science communication, and technology development. XTBG is also a renowned scenic destination.
With Yunnan Province as its primary focus, XTBG investigates the impacts of human activities and climate change on ecosystem structures and services, as well as the mechanisms behind species endangerment. Its main objectives are effective conservation, sustainable development, and the utilization of biological resources. The garden’s scientific research emphasizes forest ecosystem ecology, conservation biology, and resource plant development, supported by 33 research groups working in these areas.
XTBG covers an area of 1,125 hectares, including 250 hectares of well-preserved primary tropical rainforest. It houses over 13,000 plant species across 38 living collections, earning it a reputation as one of the world’s most diverse outdoor botanical gardens.
XTBG is home to several key facilities, including:
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Plant Resources and Sustainable Use
- Center for Integrative Conservation
- Two national field research stations (Xishuangbanna Tropical Rainforest Ecosystem Station and Ailaoshan Station for Forest Ecosystem Studies)
- Yuanjiang Hot and Dry Valley Observation Station
- Public Technology Service Center
- Germplasm Bank for Rare and Endangered Plants
- Tropical Plant Herbarium
It also includes the Department of Gardening and Horticulture, Department of Tourism Management, Department of Science Communication and Training, and Jingdong Subtropical Botanical Garden.
XTBG has a staff of approximately 400, including about 40 professional researchers, with around 100 serving as research professors or associate professors. By 2020, XTBG aimed to become a world-class botanical garden. The institution prioritizes the integration of research and education, as well as interdisciplinary collaboration.
More information: http://english.xtbg.cas.cn/au/bi/.
