Ancient Chinese Poetry Aids Study on Endangered Yangtze Porpoise

Quick Summary

• ancient Chinese poetry has helped researchers uncover historical distribution patterns of the critically endangered yangtze finless porpoise.
• This freshwater porpoise is found exclusively in China’s Yangtze River, with an estimated wild population of 1,250 individuals.
• Researchers analyzed 724 poems spanning over 1,400 years to understand habitat reduction and threats to the species.
• The study showed a 65% decline in the porpoises’ range over centuries; tributary and lake habitats reduced by 91%.
• Poems revealed detailed behavioral observations like “blowing waves” and “bowing to the wind,” aiding ecological insights.
• Scientists aim to use these texts further to interpret historical river features, group sizes, and behaviors before their numbers declined drastically.

!dynastywoodblockprintillustratedpoemsancaituhui.jpg?m=1746454613.156&w=452″>Ming Dynasty illustration depicting Yangtze finless porpoise