East China's Wuyishan National Park has identified 17 new insect species, as the area’s three-year biological survey has just been completed, enhancing the understanding of this vital biodiversity hotspot.
Wuyishan National Park, known for its comprehensive forest ecosystem representative of the mid-subtropical zone, is often termed the "World of Insects." This unique habitat fosters a diverse array of insect species, making it an important area for biological research.
Since the biological survey began in April 2021, researchers have documented 34 new species so far, including 17 previously unidentified insects. Among these discoveries are five new species from the genus Elaphropeza.
Experts emphasized that the new discovery is not only essential for further understandings of the Elaphropeza genus but also crucial for effective biological pest control.
According to official data, Wuyishan National Park now boasts 7,925 recorded insect species with seven classified as national key protected wildlife, including the first-class protected Teinopalpus aureus.
17 new insect species discovered in east China's Wuyishan National Park
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Australia rang in the year of 2026 with spectacular light and fireworks displays at their landmarks, igniting the night sky at the stroke of midnight on Jan 1.
Amidst the countdown and cheers from the crowd, the iconic 828-meter-high Burj Khalifa in Dubai, UAE illuminated the skyline with "Happy New Year" in Arabic, English, and Chinese on the tower's LED screens.
The eight-minute visually stunning show at the world's tallest skyscraper also featured drone performances and 3D projection mapping, vividly showcasing Dubai's cultural heritage and cutting-edge technology.
The New Year celebrations in downtown Dubai will be extended to eight days for the first time, running from December 31, 2025, to January 7, 2026, according to local authorities.
Australia also welcomed the New Year with dazzling fireworks in Sydney, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world to gather by the seaside to share the festive joy.
The Sydney celebration featured two separate fireworks displays – an 8-minute show at 21:00 and a 12-minute one at the midnight. Fireworks were launched from water, land, and aerial platforms at landmarks including the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, spanning seven kilometers along the harbor and showcasing 40,000 different pyrotechnic effects.
This annual event in the Southern Hemisphere city is one of the world's most spectacular New Year celebrations, drawing millions of spectators every year. On Wednesday, people from across the globe arrived early at viewing locations to share this special moment with families and friends.
"We spend the time together with friends because everybody is away from their families, otherwise maybe you'll get a little bit homesick," said Hendrik, an Estonian working in Australia.
"My New Year's wish for my wife is to become healthy after I am pretty much healthy again," said Atthians, a German tourist.
UAE, Australia ring in New Year with spectacular fireworks
