AbstractThe relationship between traditional culture of Yi minority and biodiversity in Zixishan Mountain area , central Yunnan , SW China , was investigated through the approaches of ethnobiology and cultural anthropology. Rich biodiversity in Zixishan Mountain area is benefited from traditional Yi culture. Totem culture of Yi minority has contributed significantly to the success of biodiversity conservation at ecosystem , species and genetic levels. It is suggested that the traditional culture and indigenous knowledge of the Yi ethnic culture be conserved and extensively studied for biodiversity conservation.