Abstract
The Mai Po Nature Reserve in the border area between Hong Kong and Mainland China is the
most important in Hong Kong and a significant one on the national level. It is however under
threat due to the increasing openness of this border. In view of this, any efforts to reassure the
position of nature conservation need to be based on systematic surveys and assessments of
the habitats under consideration. In this study, the habitat types of the reserve are described
and assessed with regard to nature conservation and future development. Vegetation
structure, plant species composition as well as land-use types and management practices are
taken into consideration. Thus, six habitat types, i.e. brackish and fresh water habitats,
mangroves, reeds, grass, and tree dominated habitats are distinguished. It is revealed, that
natural as well as anthropogenic habitats contribute to the diversity of the Mai Po Nature
Reserve. On the basis of this survey, a habitat map is worked out, which is a necessary tool
for practical purposes (e.g. management plan). From the assessment of the habitats'
naturalness, diversity, and peculiarity the value of the Mai Po Nature Reserve with regard to
nature conservation and cultural history is pointed out and suggestions are made for a
comprehensive conservation policy.