China now hosts 25 GIAHS sites
Three sites in China were recognized as Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization on May 19, following a comprehensive expert review. With these latest additions, China now hosts 25 GIAHS sites, maintaining its position as the country with the highest number of recognized systems worldwide.
The newly designated systems include the Gaolan Shichuan Ancient Pear Orchard System in Gansu Province, the Deqing Freshwater Pearl Mussels Composite Fishery System in Zhejiang Province, and the Fuding White Tea Culture System in Fujian Province.
Gaolan Shichuan Ancient Pear Orchard System in Gansu Province
Located in Shichuan Township, Gaolan County, Gansu Province, this orchard system has been cultivated and refined over centuries. It features the unique use of long scaling ladders, known as “Tianbashi”, and bamboo poles, enabling farmers to manage unusually tall pear trees for tasks such as pruning, pollination, fruit thinning, harvesting, and pest control. Eco-friendly pest control methods, such as applying tobacco fermentation broth or mud to tree trunks, are widely used. The system also incorporates courtyard farming integrating pomiculture, crop production, and livestock, supported by a combined organic fertilization and irrigation practice. Additionally, the use of underground cellars for pear storage highlights its adaptability.
Deqing Freshwater Pearl Mussels Composite Fishery System in Zhejiang Province
Situated in Deqing County, Zhejiang Province, this composite fishery system is based on the symbiotic relationship between fish and mussels. Centered on a locally developed technique for pearl cultivation, in which pearls are grown within mussel shells, the system has evolved into a complex aquaculture ecosystem comprising mussels, fish, plankton, benthic fauna, and aquatic plants.
Fuding White Tea Culture System in Fujian Province
Located in Fuding City, Fujian Province, the white tea culture system is shaped by the region’s distinctive climate, terrain, and centuries-old tea traditions, and is characterized by unique tea varieties, processing techniques, and a profound tea culture. The system cultivates a rich diversity of tea cultivars, including nationally recognized superior varieties such as Fuding Dabai and Fuding Dahao, while preserving traditional seed-based propagation methods. Its ecology-centered tea farming practices and terraced landscape management enhance both the comprehensive utilization of resources and the efficiency of pest control.
