Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: People's Republic of China in Russian – People's Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People's Republic of China – State Council News
Beijing, February 19 (Xinhua) — A comprehensive 10-year fishing ban imposed in the Yangtze River basin has successfully reversed a 70-year decline in fish stocks and initiated ecological recovery, according to a study recently published in the journal Science.
To improve biodiversity in regions along the Yangtze River, China imposed a complete fishing ban in 332 protected areas in the river basin in January 2020. This protection was later expanded to a 10-year fishing moratorium along the river's main channels and major tributaries, which took effect on January 1, 2021.
A team of researchers from the Institute of Hydrobiology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, together with colleagues from China and abroad, assessed the initial results of the ban using systematic monitoring data collected from 2018 to 2023.
The study conducted a comprehensive analysis of dynamic changes in fish communities in the river's mainstem before and after the ban across several parameters, including species richness, biomass, abundance, evenness, and beta diversity. The researchers also quantified the ecological mechanisms through which multiple stressors, including water quality, hydrology, climate change, land use, shoreline development, shipping, and fishing, influence fish diversity.
The results showed significant improvements in key indicators, including fish biomass, fish condition index, species diversity, and the first signs of recovery in endangered species. According to the study, a significant increase in biomass was observed in large fish species, while condition indices improved in both large and small fish species.
Some species, such as the small-eyed flathead (Cynoglossus gracilis), a ray-finned flatfish, have seen population growth since the ban was introduced, with their range expanding upstream.
According to official data released in January 2026, the Yangtze finless porpoise population increased to 1,426 individuals, an increase of 177 individuals compared to 2022. The Yangtze finless porpoise is a first-category protected species in China, and its population status serves as a barometer of the ecological environment in the Yangtze River.
The researchers identified the fishing ban as the primary and direct factor influencing the initial recovery of fisheries resources and the Yangtze River ecosystem. Furthermore, mitigating shipping pressure, creating buffer zones of coastal vegetation, and improving water quality provided a synergistic effect.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.