Ten-year fishing ban drives aquatic recovery in Yangtze River

The population of the Yangtze finless porpoise has increased to 1,426, an increase of 177 compared to the 2022 survey, thanks to a 10-year fishing ban for the Yangtze River that started from January 1, 2021, according to a press conference on Friday.

The Yangtze finless porpoise is a national first-class protected wild animal, and its population status serves as a "barometer" of the Yangtze River's ecological environment.

Over the five years since the launch of the fishing ban, positive results have been achieved under coordinated efforts, Zhang Zhili, vice minister of agriculture and rural affairs, told the press conference.

From 2021 to 2025, 351 fish species were monitored in the Yangtze River basin, an increase of 43 species compared with the period before the fishing ban, official data showed.

The overall aquatic biological integrity of the Yangtze River has also improved markedly, indicating a broader recovery of the river's ecosystem.

Meanwhile, the annual number of artificially bred Chinese sturgeon released into the Yangtze River has exceeded one million for two consecutive years. The natural population of the species in the Yangtze plummeted in the late 20th century due to intrusive human activities.

Recent monitoring has also recorded progress in natural spawning trials of the Yangtze sturgeon, a key step toward rebuilding its wild population.

The 10-year fishing ban, which covers the Yangtze River's main stream, major tributaries and connected lakes, was launched in 2021 to protect aquatic biological resources and restore the river's ecological environment, and is regarded as a strategic measure to support high-quality development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt.

"While progress has been made, we also recognize that the restoration of aquatic biodiversity in the Yangtze River is a long and gradual process, and the protection efforts still face many challenges," said Zhang.

Efforts will remain focused on the 10-year fishing ban target, enhancing protection and restoration capabilities, and implementing resettlement and support policies for fishermen who cease fishing, he said.

Authorities have strengthened law enforcement through multi-agency operations to curb illegal fishing, while ensuring employment assistance and social security coverage for former fishermen, as part of broader efforts to balance ecological protection with sustainable development.

For more: China's iconic Yangtze River basin sees improving aquatic biodiversity

(With input from Xinhua)

(Cover: Yangtze finless porpoises are seen in Yichang, Hubei Province, central China, April 8, 2025. /VCG)