Chengjiang Fossil Site in China

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Protectedplanet.net

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2012
Size of heritage: 512 ha
- Buffer zone: 220 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 102,977°
Latitude: 24,669°

Summary

A hilly 512 ha site in Yunnan province, Chengjiang’s fossils present the most complete record of an early Cambrian marine community with exceptionally preserved biota, displaying the anatomy of hard and soft tissues in a very wide variety of organisms, invertebrate and vertebrate. They record the early establishment of a complex marine ecosystem. The site documents at least sixteen phyla and a variety of enigmatic groups as well as about 196 species, presenting exceptional testimony to the rapid diversification of life on Earth 530 million years ago, when almost all of today’s major animal groups emerged. It opens a palaeobiological window of great significance to scholarship.

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Chengjiang Fossil Site: A Window into Ancient Life

The Chengjiang Fossil Site, located in Yunnan Province, China, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a remarkable glimpse into the evolution of life on Earth. With its rich collection of exceptionally preserved fossils, this site has become a treasure trove for paleontologists and a source of fascination for visitors from around the world.

History

The history of the Chengjiang Fossil Site dates back over 500 million years. The site was discovered in 1984 during the construction of a phosphate mine, when workers stumbled upon a layer of black shale containing an abundance of exquisitely preserved fossils. Recognizing the significance of this find, scientists began extensive excavations, unearthing a wealth of ancient life forms.

Since its discovery, the Chengjiang Fossil Site has yielded an astonishing array of fossils, including soft-bodied organisms, algae, and various marine creatures. These fossils provide invaluable insights into the early stages of animal evolution, shedding light on the origins of complex life forms.

Current State

Today, the Chengjiang Fossil Site is carefully managed and protected to ensure the preservation of its unique paleontological heritage. The site covers an area of approximately 512 hectares, encompassing both the fossil-bearing strata and the surrounding landscape.

Visitors to the Chengjiang Fossil Site can explore the area through guided tours and educational programs. The site features a museum that showcases a selection of the most significant fossils discovered, allowing visitors to marvel at the intricate details of these ancient organisms. The museum also provides informative displays and interactive exhibits, offering a deeper understanding of the site's scientific importance.

Efforts have been made to promote sustainable tourism at the Chengjiang Fossil Site, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the site while minimizing any negative impact on the delicate ecosystem. Strict regulations are in place to protect the fossils from damage or theft, and visitors are encouraged to follow designated paths and respect the site's rules and regulations.

Scientific research at the Chengjiang Fossil Site continues to uncover new and exciting discoveries. Paleontologists from around the world visit the site to study its fossils, contributing to our understanding of early life on Earth. The site's exceptional preservation has allowed scientists to identify numerous new species and gain insights into the ecological relationships that existed during the Cambrian period.

The Chengjiang Fossil Site stands as a testament to the incredible diversity and complexity of life that existed millions of years ago. Its UNESCO World Heritage status ensures that this invaluable scientific resource will be protected and celebrated for generations to come, allowing us to unravel the mysteries of our planet's ancient past.