Mainland completes marine geophysical survey east of Taiwan Island

The Ministry of Natural Resources has conducted a comprehensive marine geophysical survey in waters under China's jurisdiction east of Taiwan Island to improve understanding of seabed geology and support marine management.

The survey was carried out by the ministry's Second Institute of Oceanography from Aug 10 to 31, according to the ministry.

Researchers used multiple survey techniques simultaneously, including multibeam sonar, multichannel seismic exploration, ocean-bottom seismometers, and gravity and magnetic measurements.

The survey collected basic environmental data on seabed topography, sedimentary layers, deep geological structures and geophysical fields, the ministry said.

The data will help researchers further examine the geological and geophysical characteristics of the seabed east of Taiwan Island, including seabed sediments, tectonic structures, deep crustal architecture and geological evolution.

The survey will also provide a scientific basis for the comprehensive management of waters under China's jurisdiction in the area, while contributing data to the development of a unified spatial planning database, the ministry said.