KUNMING, Oct. 23 (Xinhua) -- Southwest China's Yunnan Province has launched a scientific investigation on Potatso National Park, known for its natural beauty and well-preserved ecology, local authorities said Wednesday.

(File photo: Xinhua)

Experts and scholars from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Southwest Forestry University and other research institutes are conducting a comprehensive study on the flora and fauna and geological environment of the national park and its adjacent areas, according to the Yunnan provincial forestry and grassland bureau.

The bureau said the investigation would help improve the scientific monitoring of the park's ecosystem and strengthen its protection and management system.

Gong Hede, an expert from Southwest Forestry University, said the investigation will cover an area of more than 600 square km.

With an average altitude of about 3,500 meters, Potatso National Park in northwest Yunnan boasts unique natural sceneries such as lakes, wetlands and mountains and is home to many rare plants and animals.