Xingkai Lake Biosphere Reserve

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, inscribed 2007, in China. The reserve is located in the Xingkai Lake basin on the Sanjiang Plain, bordering the Russian Federation along the Songacha River in the east and Daxingkai Lake in the south. Wetland and forest ecosystems are the main habitats and function like a vast reservoir, providing 16 billion cubic metres of water. The reserve holds a leading position in species diversity and abundance, and supports rare, endangered and relict species. It is known for its agricultural and industrial output. Ecotourism has been supported and promoted in recent years.