The Chinese mainland has unveiled its first scientific assessment of coral reef ecosystems in the contested South China Sea, revealing stark differences between two key sites. A report by the South China Sea Development Research Institute under the Ministry of Natural Resources details the rapid degradation of Tiexian Jiao's reefs and the thriving biodiversity of Niu'e Jiao's marine environment.
Satellite data and field surveys show Tiexian Jiao's reef-building coral coverage plummeted 68.9% between 2016-2024, with three critical findings:
Limited coral species diversity threatening ecosystem resilience
Unauthorized activities by foreign vessels in adjacent waters
Illegal construction materials linked to Philippine origins near Zhongye Dao
In contrast, Niu'e Jiao maintains a 37.7% coral coverage rate—considered healthy by marine biologists. Researchers emphasize the findings reinforce the need for coordinated conservation efforts and responsible regional stewardship.
