Abstract:

Aims: The ancient tree biocultural micro-conservation site (ATBMS) represents an innovative conservation pathway designed to synergistically protect the biological and cultural elements of ancient trees. This paper systematically elucidates its conceptual connotation and characteristics. It clarifies its unique position and value within the global protected area system. 

Methods: Through a comprehensive review of the development history of natural protected areas, a comparative analysis of related models such as other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs), plant micro-reserves, and small-scale natural conservation areas, and case studies. 

Results: This research delineates the composite features of ATBMS, which centers on individual or small clusters of ancient trees while integrating their micro-habitats and cultural spaces. The core innovation of ATBMS lies in achieving fine-scale, synergistic conservation across both ecological and cultural dimensions. It addresses the gaps in OECMs regarding “cultural and fine-scale protection,” overcomes the “ecological-cultural divide” inherent in traditional small-scale protected areas, and complements small-scale natural conservation areas. Based on this, the study proposes differentiated conservation strategies tailored to various types of ancient trees (e.g., individual/clustered, natural/cultivated, urban/rural). 

Conclusion: ATBMS can provide critical habitats for local biodiversity while preserving traditional knowledge and cultural memory. It serves as an effective complement to OECMs and offers an innovative paradigm of “precise and micro-scale guardianship” for global biocultural diversity conservation. Future efforts should focus on developing robust assessment indicator systems, promoting interdisciplinary research, and improving community co-management mechanisms to establish a scientifically sound ATBMS conservation framework.

Key words: ancient tree biocultural micro-conservation site, biocultural diversity, other effective area-based conservation measures, microhabitat, community participation