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Yangtze River Biodiversity Roars Back to Life
2 Apr
Summary
- Native fish species increased by 43 since 2021.
- Aquatic resources in the main stream doubled post-ban.
- Illegal fishing cases dropped nearly 40% year-on-year.
Aquatic biodiversity in China's Yangtze River is experiencing a notable recovery, according to recent monitoring data. Between 2021 and 2025, the number of native fish species recorded in the Yangtze basin rose to 351, an increase of 43 species compared to the pre-ban period. The monitored stock level in the river's main stream has doubled since the implementation of the 10-year fishing ban in 2021.
Law enforcement efforts have been intensified, resulting in a nearly 40 percent year-on-year decrease in criminal cases related to fisheries in 2025. Administrative cases of illegal fishing also fell by 65 percent compared to 2021. To mitigate the impact on local communities, over 141,000 fishermen have found alternative employment, and 220,000 are covered by pension insurance.
A new action plan for 2026 outlines 60 measures to bolster conservation, including habitat restoration for species like the Yangtze finless porpoise and Chinese sturgeon. Efforts will focus on expanding conservation waters, restoring spawning grounds, and increasing artificial breeding and release programs. Recently, approximately 550,000 juvenile Chinese sturgeon were released into the river.
