The Yangtze River is the longest river in Asia and the third longest river in the world. The river runs through a wide variety of ecosystems and is a habitat for numerous endangered species. It is used to irrigate one-fifth of the land in China. The Yangtze River basin is inhabited by one-third of the nation\'s population. The river is quite crucial to Chinese history, culture and economy. The Yangtze River delta generates as much as 20% of China\'s GNP. For thousands of years, the river has been utilized for water supply, transportation and industrial production. It is also home to the world\'s largest hydroelectric power station.