Huangyan Dao survey shows resilient ecosystems despite human, climate pressures

A scientific survey of Huangyan Dao in the South China Sea has revealed a healthy and recovering coral reef ecosystem, with local seagrass beds now covering an average of 19 percent of the area - the highest recorded level.

The findings were detailed in a survey report on the coral reef ecosystem of Huangyan Dao in Sansha City, the southernmost city in Hainan Province.

"Overall, this survey surpasses previous expeditions at China's Huangyan Dao in scale, scope, and methods. It found the coral reef ecosystem to be in good condition, with high-quality habitats and rich biodiversity," said Lyu Yihua, senior engineer of the South China Sea Ecological Center under the Ministry of Natural Resources.

A key indicator of recovery is the expansion of seagrass. Since 2010, coverage in the atoll's northern lagoon has grown steadily from 0.6 square kilometers to 1.8 square kilometers, transforming from scattered patches into a more continuous ecosystem.

Researchers attribute this positive trend to reduced human disturbance.

"This positive transformation is the result of the China Coast Guard's regular law enforcement patrols, effective management measures and reductions in disruptions from vessel traffic and human activities," said Xiong Xiaofei, senior engineer of the South China Sea Ecological Center under the Ministry of Natural Resources.

The report also highlights ongoing environmental pressures, including rising sea temperatures from climate change, tropical cyclones, and the risk of Acanthaster solaris outbreaks, all of which threaten reef health.

To strengthen conservation, China established the Huangyan Dao National Nature Reserve in September 2025, focusing on protecting coral reefs and other key marine ecosystems.

"Following the establishment of the Huangyan Dao National Nature Reserve, we will implement more scientific and proactive conservation measures to better maintain and enhance the diversity, stability, and sustainability of the coral reef ecosystem in this area," said Huang Huamei, senior engineer of the South China Sea Ecological Center under the Ministry of Natural Resources.

The report was released Monday by the South China Sea Ecological Center of the Ministry of Natural Resources, together with other relevant units and scientific innovation platforms.

Huangyan Dao survey shows resilient ecosystems despite human, climate pressures

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday urged solid steps in the coming year to promote high-quality development, further deepen reform and opening up across the board, deliver prosperity for all, and write a new chapter in the story of China's miracle when delivering his New Year message.

Delivering the the message through China Media Group and the Internet, Xi extended his best wishes for the coming year to the people.

Noting that 2025 marks the completion of China's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for economic and social development, Xi hailed the country's achievements in various sectors in the past five years, and expressed his gratitude to the people for their "exceptional diligence and invaluable contributions".

Recalling the "indelible memories" of the past 12 months, Xi spoke highly of the progress made in various sectors such as technological innovation, cultural development, people's livelihood and China's opening-up to the world.

Noting that the year 2026 marks the beginning of the 15th Five-Year Plan, Xi said a successful venture should start with a good plan and with clear goals set, urging efforts to focus on goals and tasks, boost confidence, and build momentum to press ahead.

Solid steps should be taken to promote high-quality development, further deepen reform and opening up across the board, deliver prosperity for all, and write a new chapter in the story of China's miracle, he empathized.

"The dream lofty, the journey long—bold strides will get us there. Let us charge ahead like horses with courage, vitality, and energy, fight for our dreams and our happiness, and turn our great vision into beautiful realities," said the president.

Xi concluded his speech with best wishes for the country and the people.

"The sun of the new year will soon rise. May our great motherland stand in magnificence! May the fields across the country deliver good harvest! May our nation bathe in the morning glory! May you all enjoy life to the full, and achieve every success! May all your dreams come true!" he said.

Xi urges promoting high-quality development to write new chapter in China's miracle in 2026