Qigu Mangrove Forest Conservation Area Introduction
The resilient mangrove stands, showcasing vitality! The name "mangrove" originates from the now-extinct Avicennia marina, and today it generally refers to the woody plant communities growing in the intertidal zones along the coast. Due to the unique ecological environment of estuaries, mangroves develop at the river mouths, enduring the harsh challenge of rising and falling tides daily. The changes in the environment's humidity and dryness are quite severe, making it rare for other plants to thrive here, thus mangroves are also known as "tidal forests." The mouths of the Cigu River and the Jiangjun River both feature natural ecosystems of mangroves. Over three hundred years ago, the mangroves in this area were already flourishing, and the Ouhuang Creek was referred to as "Green Valley" by the Dutch. The Cigu River primarily features Avicennia marina, while the Jiangjun River has a prevalence of Kandelia obovata. The Cigu Mangrove Conservation Area is located near the mouth of the Cigu River, where an abundance of humus and nutrients accumulate upstream, making the soil richer than that of general coastlines. This provides a good ecological diversity for species such as fiddler crabs, various fish, shrimp, mollusks, and numerous bird species, thereby constructing a complete food chain. The residents of Cigu mainly rely on aquaculture for their livelihood, and this mangrove forest attracts a large number of egrets, which primarily feed on fish. Along the Cigu Mangrove Conservation Area, there is a three-story bird-watching pavilion with excellent views to observe the flights of seabirds and egrets, as well as many unique fishing scenes of local residents. Recommended viewing point: Mangrove Birdwatching Pavilion.
