TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Starting July 1, Taiwan's Xiaoliuqiu Island will implement new marine conservation measures aimed at protecting its intertidal ecosystems from tourism pressures and climate change.
The island, located 14 km off the southwest coast of Taiwan, has been grappling with declining marine biomass and fishery resources. Pingtung County Government said the measures aim to promote sustainable resource management and raise public awareness of ecological conservation, according to CNA.
Among the key changes is the introduction of a NT$60 (US$2) fee for visitors entering the Gebanwan intertidal zone. Located on the island’s western coast, Gebanwan is known for its white sandy beaches and clear waters, making it ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring intertidal zone activities.
The area, previously open to the public free of charge, saw a significant rise in foot traffic after entry fees were introduced at three other intertidal sites last July. Between July and November 2024, Gebanwan recorded 28,123 visitors — over four times the total number recorded across the three fee-based zones.
As part of its expanded conservation efforts, the county is designating a portion of the Lobster Cave area northeast of Xiaoliuqiu as a protected zone, limiting access to residents and authorized researchers. Lobster Cave is a natural coral reef formation that used to be a favored spot for lobster fishing.
Additionally, sea urchins within a conservation area will be classified as protected species to prevent accidental harvesting and habitat disruption. Authorities said that if ecological balance requires population control, removal of sea urchins must be conducted through government projects and authorized in advance.
Breaking the rules may result in fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$150,000 under the Fisheries Act.
The intertidal zone is the area between the high and low tide marks, where tidal movements cause it to be covered by water during high tide and exposed to the air during low tide. Generally, intertidal zones can be classified into two types based on their substrate: soft-bottom zones, such as sandy or muddy beaches, and hard-bottom zones, including rocky reefs and gravel beds, according to the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology.
