In 2012, the Marine National Park Headquarters (hereinafter referred to as the Headquarters) continued conducting ecological and strategic analysis research in Dongsha Atoll National Park and the Penghu South Four Islands. Research in Dongsha focused primarily on coral reef ecology, while studies in the Penghu South Four Islands emphasized the relationship between national park development and local socio-economic systems. To share these research findings with the public, the Headquarters will hold a research results presentation event on Friday, May 3, 2013, at Kaohsiung Metropolitan Park.
Since its establishment in 2007, the Headquarters has carried out annual marine and terrestrial ecological research at Dongsha Atoll. Marine studies have centered on coral reef ecosystems, including research on corals, fishes, crustaceans, mollusks, algae, and seagrasses. Terrestrial research has focused on the flora, insects, and birds of Dongsha Island. In addition to Dongsha Atoll, the Headquarters has also explored other areas around Taiwan with potential to become marine protected areas, including the Penghu South Four Islands (Dongyuping Islet, Xiyuping Islet, Dongji Islet, and Xiji Islet), the Northern Three Islets (Pengjia Islet, Mianhua Islet, and Huaping Islet), and Lanyu (Orchid Island).
Over the past year, the Headquarters implemented a range of research projects, including: “Assessment of Natural Resources and Management Strategies of Dongsha Atoll National Park,” “Socio-economic Impact and Development Strategy Analysis of the Penghu South Four Islands,” “Biodiversity and Habitat Composition Survey of the Northern Reef Flat of Dongsha Atoll,” “Survey of Mollusk Resources from the Intertidal Zone to Terrestrial Areas of Dongsha Island,” “Survey of Crabs and Hermit Crabs from the Intertidal Zone to Terrestrial Areas of Dongsha Island,” and “Current Status and Trend Assessment of Insect Fauna on Dongsha Island,” among others. If you are interested in this year’s presentation topics, please download the registration form and submit your application via email or fax. For further inquiries, please contact Ms. Chen of the Conservation and Research Division at 07-3601886.