China, Vietnam Boost Fish Stocks in Beibu Gulf

China and Vietnam have successfully conducted another joint marine stock enhancement operation in the Beibu Gulf, releasing approximately 272 million juvenile fish and shrimp. This collaborative effort aims to combat the declining fishery resources in the biodiverse marine area. Fishery resource density in the eastern Beibu Gulf saw a sharp decline, falling from 1,161 kg per square kilometer in 2006 to 317 kg in 2019.

Since 2017, nine such operations have replenished the waters with about 770 million aquatic seedlings. These programs are proving effective, with a recapture rate above 5 percent for released species and a more than 10 percent year-on-year increase in catches of key species. Coastal fishermen report visible improvements in fish stocks and have seen their incomes rise by over 20 percent.

The program emphasizes scientific management, with researchers carefully assessing ecological carrying capacity, food availability, and water quality. Hatcheries ensure released juveniles possess reliable genetics, suitable size, and strong vitality, while transport protocols are meticulously controlled to enhance post-release survival rates and adapt them to marine conditions.