Restoration boosts coral survival rate in Sanya

The sustained coral restoration efforts around Wuzhizhou Island in Sanya, China's southernmost Hainan province have reportedly yielded tremendous results.

According to the latest data, the program has transplanted more than 68,000 coral specimens, cultivated about 10 selected species, and achieved a coral survival rate of over 70 percent.

On June 8, Hainan province launched a series of event in Sanya to mark the 2026 World Oceans Day as well as the upcoming National Maritime Day, which is celebrated in China on July 11, shining a light on its achievements in marine ecological protection and restoration.

Highlights included the restoration successes at the Xincun and Li'an port seagrass special protection areas in Lingshui Li autonomous county as well as the ongoing coral restoration on Wuzhizhou Island.

Hainan's overarching approach to marine ecological restoration now features a comprehensive and well-coordinated strategy that extends across various sites.

Coral reefs and seagrass beds now serve as core ecological shields for coastal balance and maritime safety, making their restoration and protection an absolute priority in Hainan's marine ecological management.

The coral restoration initiative around Wuzhizhou Island has been progressing for a decade now. The island has embraced innovative restoration techniques to systematically enhance the seabed ecosystem.

As the marine environment improves, sightings of rare marine creatures — like dolphins, hawksbill turtles and leaf sheep sea slugs — have become more frequent, reflecting a steady rise in its marine biodiversity.