Changjiang

Changjiang, also known as the Yangtze River, is the longest river in Asia and the third-longest in the world. It flows entirely within China, originating in the Tanggula Mountains on the Tibetan Plateau and emptying into the East China Sea near Shanghai. The river's drainage basin covers a significant portion of central and eastern China, supporting a vast population and diverse ecosystems.

Historically, the Changjiang has been a vital artery for transportation, trade, and communication, playing a crucial role in the development of Chinese civilization. Its fertile floodplains have been a major agricultural region for millennia, supporting rice cultivation and other crops. The river is also a source of hydroelectric power, with the Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest power station, located on its course.

The Changjiang supports a rich biodiversity, though it faces significant environmental challenges. Pollution from industrial and agricultural sources, overfishing, and habitat destruction have impacted its aquatic life. Efforts are underway to mitigate these environmental issues and protect the river's ecological health. The river's course is marked by dramatic landscapes, from the steep gorges of the upper reaches to the broad plains of its lower delta.