Lush forests blanket Guiyang, reflecting its thriving ecological environment. [Photo/Guiyang news network]

Cradled by mountains and rivers, Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province, tells a compelling story of harmony between people and nature.

Between 2021 and 2023, a citywide biodiversity survey uncovered several fungi species susceptible to environmental conditions, such as Cordyceps militaris, Cordyceps chanhua, and Ophiocordyceps nutans, marking their first recorded appearances in Guiyang. With over 55 percent forest coverage and 99.5 percent of days with excellent air quality, the city provides an ideal environment for these rare fungi to thrive.

Researchers trekked through deep forests, valleys, and wetlands, capturing more than 30,000 photos and collecting over 10,000 carefully preserved specimens. A preliminary data platform was also established to help manage and integrate this valuable information.

So far, the survey has identified 7,691 species. Among these, 361 species of macrofungi and 299 spider species were newly recorded in Guiyang, with 111 spiders also new to Guizhou province. Eight mammal and eight fish species were found for the first time in the city, along with 27 newly recorded species of seed plants.