Zhangjiagang in Suzhou, Jiangsu province takes a series of measures to protect its environment. [Photo/zjgonline.com.cn]

Zhangjiagang, a county-level city in Suzhou, East China's Jiangsu province, has made notable progress in improving its biodiversity.

The city's bureau of ecology and environment found 802 varieties of vascular plants, 125 varieties of phytoplankton, 99 species of birds, 73 species of fish, 81 species of zooplankton, and three species of wild mammals during a survey that started in October 2021.

Several kinds of rare animals, including scaly-sided mergansers and finless porpoises, have also been spotted in the city.

Zhangjiagang has been making continuous efforts to conserve nature over the years. In 2019, it invested 3.76 billion yuan ($563.13 million) to relocate industrial companies along its section of the Yangtze River and improve the environment near the riverbanks.

The city has also closed 78 chemical companies and tackled pollution emitted from its 116 chemical manufacturers and two chemical industrial parks.

In addition, Zhangjiagang has planted 6,094 mu (406.27 hectares) of trees in the rural area and another 2911.8 mu along the Yangtze River to provide natural habitats for animals and plants.

The city will further improve biodiversity-related policies and establish a monitoring system in the near future.