Core Viewpoint - The article pays tribute to the contributions of Cao Wenxuan, a prominent ichthyologist, highlighting his lifelong dedication to fish research and conservation efforts in China, particularly in the Yangtze River [4][20]. Group 1: Personal Background and Achievements - Cao Wenxuan, born in 1934 in Sichuan, has dedicated over 70 years to fish research, significantly impacting the understanding of aquatic biodiversity in China [4][22]. - He has been instrumental in promoting the artificial breeding of the Wuchang fish, which has become a staple in Chinese households [12][13]. - His research has led to the discovery of 22 new fish species and has provided evidence for geological changes in the Tibetan Plateau through the study of fish evolution [17][14]. Group 2: Conservation Efforts - Since 2006, Cao has advocated for a ten-year fishing ban in the Yangtze River to restore fish populations, which has seen positive results in recent years [20][19]. - The decline in fish populations, particularly the "Four Major Fish" species, has been alarming, with spawning numbers dropping from billions in the 1960s to less than 70 million [19][20]. - The comprehensive fishing ban initiated in 2021 has already shown signs of ecological recovery, with increased sightings of previously rare species like the Yangtze River dolphin [20][22].