The ancient looking-glass mangrove cluster in Baguang, Dapeng New District has been selected as one of the "100 Most Beautiful Ancient Tree Clusters" in China, making it the only mangrove cluster to be included on the national list, Shenzhen Economic Daily reported.

This accolade follows earlier recognition of the Baguang cluster as one of the "Top 10 Most Beautiful Ancient Tree Clusters in Guangdong Province" by the Guangdong Provincial Forestry Administration in 2022, further underscoring its significance in the realm of conservation.

Located next to Yanzao Ancient Village in Baguang Community, Kuichong Subdistrict, the ancient tree cluster is the most intact and oldest natural looking-glass tree cluster in China and the world. It boasts 33 registered ancient trees with an average age of over 200 years old; the oldest tree is over 500 years old.

A view of Baguang ancient looking-glass mangrove cluster. File photos 

The extraordinary species, also known as the silver-leaf tree, is characterized by its large size, wing-shaped nuts, and leaves adorned by distinctive silvery scales reminiscent of a mirror. Remarkably rare, this species can be found in China, Southeast Asia, and India.

Overseeing this botanical treasure trove, the Shenzhen Municipal Planning and Natural Resources Bureau conducts comprehensive and detailed verification of all ancient trees in Shenzhen by continually updating individual growth attribute data and establishing graphic and electronic databases.

To engage the public and foster vigilance over these living botanical relics, each tree is accurately mapped using GPS technology. A dedicated protection plaque, complete with a unique identification code, has been affixed to every tree. The codes serve as a convenient way for the public to access information about a tree's species, age, and other details.

An ancient looking-glass mangrove tree. 

Responsibility for the daily maintenance of each ancient tree has been clearly defined, and maintenance responsibility agreements have been signed to guarantee the faithful execution of these duties. Furthermore, a patrol system has been implemented to monitor the well-being of these ancient trees.

The bureau has gone the extra mile by installing video surveillance for 14 first-grade ancient trees and four famous trees in the city, thereby ensuring round-the-clock monitoring and protection.

The ancient tree selection was guided by the National Afforestation Committee, organized by Xinhuanet.com, and undertaken by the Industrial Development Planning Institute of the National Forestry and Grassland Administration. 

An ancient tree in Dapeng.