Ep 2. The Yangtze

As the second episode of the first season of Jeremy Wade's Mighty Rivers, “The Yangtze” is a captivating look at one of the world's most important waterways. The episode boasts stunning footage that is sure to captivate viewers, and Jeremy Wade himself is an expert guide to this fascinating part of the world.

The Yangtze River is 4,000 miles long and is the longest river in Asia. It flows through China and is a lifeline for millions of people who live along its banks. This episode of Mighty Rivers takes viewers along the river, examining its unique ecosystems and the challenges that face them. From the bustling cities and farms along the river to the remote mountain communities, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the incredible diversity of life along the Yangtze.

Jeremy Wade travels to China to explore the river, speak with locals, and investigate the various species that call the Yangtze home. Along the way, he meets with experts in conservation efforts, interviews fishermen, and observes wildlife in their natural habitats. Through it all, Jeremy provides an insightful commentary on the region's ecology and the threats that it faces.

As Jeremy moves along the river, he encounters many species of fish and other aquatic life. One of the most fascinating moments in the episode comes when Jeremy meets with a young woman named Tang Chuan in Yibin. Chuan is one of the few people who have seen the legendary Chinese paddlefish, which is believed to be extinct. She describes the fish's smooth skin, long nose, and massive size. The Chinese paddlefish was once a staple of the Yangtze, growing to up to seven meters in length and weighing as much as 450 pounds. However, overfishing and habitat disruption have led to its extinction.

Jeremy also observes the efforts of conservationists to return fish to the river. The episode highlights the Five-Colored Fish, a small fish that was once so common in the Yangtze that it was used as a food source by poor villagers. However, the construction of dams and pollution have led to its decline. Conserving the Five-Colored Fish has become a priority for Chinese conservationists, and Jeremy meets with scientists who are working to protect it.

Aside from aquatic life, “The Yangtze” also examines the challenges that people face living along the river. The massive increase in populations in China has led to the diversion of water, which has had devastating consequences for communities that rely on the river for survival. The episode delves into the efforts of local farmers to mitigate the impact of drought and climate change on their crops.

Overall, “The Yangtze” is a stunning and informative episode of Jeremy Wade's Mighty Rivers. The episode highlights both the biodiversity of the region and the threats that face it. Through Jeremy's expert guidance, viewers are left with a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Yangtze and a sense of urgency to protect it.