Chinese scientists conduct fishery resources survey in waters east of Taiwan

Chinese marine scientists have completed a weeklong fishery resources survey in waters east of Taiwan, collecting biological and environmental data to support the conservation and sustainable management of fisheries in the region, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

The survey, conducted from Friday to Thursday, was carried out by the Lanhai 201 research vessel operated by the East China Sea Fisheries Research Institute at the Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, the ministry said on Thursday.

The waters east of Taiwan are rich in marine biodiversity and are an important spawning ground for commercially valuable species, including tuna.

Researchers applied a multidisciplinary approach during the expedition, collecting samples of fish, cephalopods and crustaceans, along with environmental DNA samples. They also gathered data on fisheries acoustics, hydrology and meteorological conditions.

The survey is expected to provide a more comprehensive understanding of fishery resources in the area and strengthen the scientific foundation for resource conservation and management, the ministry said.

The data will also support efforts to promote the sustainable development of China's marine fisheries through improved monitoring and resource protection, it added.