Core Viewpoint - The report provides a comprehensive assessment of the coral reef ecosystems at Tiexian Reef and Niuhuo Reef, highlighting significant degradation in the Tiexian Reef's coral coverage while indicating that the ecosystem health of Niuhuo Reef remains relatively good. The report also refutes claims made by the Philippines regarding artificial land reclamation and coral debris dumping by China, stating these claims lack scientific basis [1][4][9]. Group 1: Ecosystem Assessment - The Tiexian Reef and Niuhuo Reef are part of China's Nansha Islands, with the Tiexian Reef's area measuring approximately 14 km in length and 7 km in width, while Niuhuo Reef measures about 7 km by 6 km [3]. - From 2016 to 2024, the coral coverage at Tiexian Reef decreased by approximately 68.9%, while Niuhuo Reef experienced a 12.2% decline in coral coverage during the same period [3][4]. - The investigation revealed a rich diversity of fish species, with Tiexian Reef hosting 144 species and Niuhuo Reef 133 species, representing 26.0% and 24.0% of the recorded coral reef fish species in the Nansha Islands, respectively [4]. Group 2: Human Impact and Environmental Factors - Illegal fishing activities by foreign vessels, particularly from the Philippines, and the presence of discarded materials were found to exert pressure on the coral reef ecosystems [9]. - The report highlights that ongoing construction activities on Zhongye Island by the Philippines have severely impacted China's territorial sovereignty and contributed to ecological degradation in the surrounding areas [9]. - The presence of natural sandbanks at both reefs, which are formed by coral debris, is confirmed to be a natural geographical phenomenon rather than a result of human activity [10]. Group 3: Causes of Coral Degradation - The primary cause of severe degradation in the Tiexian Reef's coral ecosystem is identified as outbreaks of the crown-of-thorns starfish, which preferentially feed on branching corals [12][14]. - Seasonal thermal stress and human activities, including construction and pollution, are also significant factors affecting the health of the coral ecosystems [15]. - The report emphasizes the need for ongoing research and protective measures to mitigate the impacts of human activities and environmental changes on coral reef ecosystems [15].
调查报告公布!菲方在铁线礁海域非法捕捞,现场发现菲方人为弃置物
新京报·2025-04-25 04:06