Environmental monitoring authorities in east China's Jiangsu Province have recorded a record number of Yangtze finless porpoises during the second-quarter population survey along the Jiangsu section of the Yangtze River.

The survey lasted 12 days, with seven days of effective observation due to weather conditions. During the survey, researchers recorded 37 groups of Yangtze finless porpoises, totaling more than 130 sightings. The largest group consisted of 12 individuals. Both figures exceeded those recorded during the same period last year and marked a record high for the monitoring program.

Survey results showed that signs of finless porpoise activity were detected across most sections of the river in Jiangsu, indicating a continued expansion of the species' habitat range. The Nanjing section recorded the highest encounter rate, with more than 70 porpoise sightings.

Known as the "barometer" of the Yangtze River's ecological health, the Yangtze finless porpoise is a key indicator species. The widespread presence of the animals suggests continued improvements in water quality and a steadily improving habitat for aquatic life in the Jiangsu section of the river.