One of the most important tropical habitats for young fish is mangrove swamps.In the last 40 years, 80% of China's mangroves have been destroyed.But at the Dongzhaigang Mangrove Reserve in Hainan, a remarkable conservation initiative is bringing young Chinese volunteers togetherto plant mangrove saplings in the glutinous mud.For many of these city-born students,such unglamorous work demonstrates their commitment to their country's environment.Like other heavily populated countries, China today is faced with a challenge.How best to protect nature in an increasingly crowded space?