The Yangtze River's ecological restoration efforts have achieved a significant milestone, with the critically endangered finless porpoise population rising to 1,426 individuals as of January 2026, according to official data released Friday. This marks a 14% increase from the 2022 survey, demonstrating the early success of China's decade-long fishing ban implemented in 2021.
Conservationists attribute this recovery to strict enforcement of the fishing moratorium and habitat restoration programs along Asia's longest river. 'The return of fish stocks has created a sustainable food chain,' explained Dr. Li Wei, a senior researcher at the Yangtze River Ecological Research Institute. 'Local communities have transitioned to eco-friendly aquaculture and river patrol roles, creating new economic opportunities.'
While celebrating progress, authorities emphasize that five years remain in the conservation initiative. Recent measures include expanded water quality monitoring and the establishment of new protected zones near major tributaries. The program's success is being studied as a potential model for other major river systems in Asia.
