Core Points - The article emphasizes the importance of the Yangtze River's ten-year fishing ban, which aims to restore the river's ecological balance and biodiversity, marking a significant shift in the relationship between humans and nature [2][14][18] - The ban has led to a notable recovery of aquatic species, including an increase in the population of the Yangtze River dolphin and other native fish species, indicating positive ecological changes [3][4][11] - The article highlights the socioeconomic impact of the fishing ban on local fishermen, who have transitioned to alternative livelihoods, supported by government policies and training programs [7][9][10] Summary by Sections Ecological Recovery - The Yangtze River's biodiversity has improved significantly, with the population of the Yangtze dolphin increasing to 1,249 in 2022, up by 237 from 2017 [3] - Key species such as the Yangtze sturgeon and other native fish have shown signs of recovery, with the population of the Yangtze knife fish increasing to four times its pre-ban levels [4] - The aquatic biological integrity index has improved, with the Yangtze River and Poyang Lake moving up two levels from the "no fish" status [4] Habitat Restoration - Efforts to restore aquatic habitats have included the removal of 342 small hydropower stations on the Chishui River, enhancing water connectivity [5] - The introduction of natural restoration concepts aims to create diverse habitats for various fish species, improving their breeding conditions [5] Species Protection - The article discusses the ongoing efforts to protect endangered species through artificial breeding and release programs, with over 1 million Chinese sturgeons released in recent years [6] - The focus on full lifecycle protection of species is crucial for restoring aquatic ecosystems [6] Socioeconomic Transition - The fishing ban has affected 231,000 fishermen, prompting government initiatives to ensure their transition to new livelihoods, such as eco-tourism and aquaculture [7][9] - Training programs and financial support have been implemented to assist fishermen in adapting to new economic activities, with some achieving significant income from crab farming [9][10] Policy and Enforcement - The article highlights the need for strict enforcement against illegal fishing activities, as the ban's success faces challenges from poaching [12][13] - Future policies will focus on enhancing biodiversity monitoring and implementing targeted ecological management strategies [14][18]

Core Viewpoint - The research team from the Yangtze River Water Resources Commission has discovered a variety of unique fish species in the source of the Yangtze River, highlighting the ecological significance and potential economic value of these species in extreme high-altitude environments [1][2][4]. Group 1: Fish Species and Their Significance - The primary fish species identified in the Yangtze River source include six types, with two being from the carp family and four from the loach family, showcasing the biodiversity in this extreme habitat [2][4]. - The small-headed naked carp, found at altitudes between 4,400 meters and 5,200 meters, is noted as the highest distributed cyprinid fish globally and serves as an indicator of the health of the Yangtze River ecosystem, possessing high scientific, ecological, and potential economic value [2][4]. Group 2: Research and Conservation Efforts - The research team has focused on identifying critical habitats for fish, particularly spawning grounds, which are essential for the conservation of these unique species. The precise location of spawning grounds was only discovered in 2021, marking a significant breakthrough in conservation efforts [2][4]. - The study of spawning grounds has revealed that the small-headed naked carp buries its eggs in riverbed gravel to protect them from harsh UV radiation, indicating a unique adaptation to the extreme environment [4]. - The findings from this research not only support the protection of fish habitats but also provide insights into the impacts of climate change on the water ecosystem of the Yangtze River source [4].