An over 100-day scientific expedition along the Qiantang River, a waterway in east China's Zhejiang province, which started last June, has uncovered how its striking "tidal trees" are formed. The latest findings were released on Oct 7, 2025.

Researchers found that extensive tidal flats serve as the foundation, while tidal forces act as the "brush," shaping patterns during ebb and flow. The team also performed a "CT scan" of ancient sea walls, detecting over 1,600 hidden risks through advanced technology and inspection robots. These findings provide crucial insights for protecting the Qiantang tidal bore and enhancing coastal construction.