Jun 26, 2026

China has discovered a globally rare coral reef growth structure-type marine blue hole at Huangyan Dao, marking the first coral reef blue hole explored and verified in the country, according to a report released by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment on Thursday. Preliminary geochronological analyses, including radiocarbon dating, suggest that the blue hole dates back at least 3,200 years and supports rich biodiversity in its surrounding waters. 

Titled "2025 Survey Report on Huangyan Dao Blue Hole," the report was released in both Chinese and English versions. It consists of four parts, providing a comprehensive introduction to the blue hole ecosystem, the overview and genesis of the Huangyan Dao Blue Hole, the biodiversity within and around the blue hole, and prospects for research, survey and conservation.

The surveys are the latest studies of the ecological environment in the waters around China's Huangyan Dao in the South China Sea since China's State Council approved the establishment of the Huangyan Dao National Nature Reserve in September 2025 to protect the island's coral reef ecosystem. Administered by the city of Sansha in South China's Hainan Province, the reserve covers 3,523.67 hectares, according to the Xinhua News Agency. 

Read more:

https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202606/1364489.shtml