An expert with the Chinese Academy of Sciences suggested a gene bank of rare animal species be built in Tibet.

 

"Their genes should be collected for molecular biological studies," he said.

 

Tibet is home to many drought-resistant and cold-resistant plants and animals.

 

Zhang Xinshi said ecotourism in Tibet should be given national priority as the region is home to many species like the Tibetan antelope which lives at an elevation of 5,000 meters.

 

He also wants outdated and labor-intensive agriculture production stopped, stressing "we should rationally develop ecological, mineral and tourist resources in Tibet." He added that "this place has huge potential to develop ecotourism."

 

"Rational development of ecotourism can both protect wildlife there and increase revenue for the local people," he said.

 

(Xinhua News Agency December 26, 2005)