China's State Forestry Administration says there has been a significant increase in the animal and plant populations of the country's endangered species, thanks to the establishment of the natural reserves.

The country has selected fifteen major species, including the tiger and the orchid, to be put under the protection of state level projects. Hundreds of other species have also been picked locally for preservation.

So far, China has set up over 250 bases to help protect endangered animals and over 400 centers to help preserve endangered plants.

(Xinhua News Agency August 4, 2005)