In March 2003 Kenting National Park Headquarters established the “Sea Urchin Reserve” in Houbihu lagoon to allow the population of coral reef-dwelling sea urchins (Tripneustes gratilla Linnaeus白棘三列海膽 ) to recover. Then, in March 2005, “Houbihu model marine reserve area” was established. After several years of protection, the number of sea urchins in the reserve is growing steadily.

Dr. Chao Shi-min, who is responsible for monitoring sea urchin numbers, said that the population is comparable to 20 years ago, but more effort is required to recover to the level of 25 years ago.

Because the people of Taiwan and the Japanese love to eat sea urchins. The sea around Taiwan were almost completely stripped of Tripneustes gratilla Linnaeus with the result that, with its natural enemy removed from the ecosystem, algae was able to grow excessively, affecting the normal growth of coral. This was the main reason that the national park established a “sea urchin reserve”.

After the establishment of “Houbihu model marine reserve area” the national park HQ has continued with efforts to establish other reserves and has also established “Tiaoshi model marine reserve area”. If reckless harvesting is avoided it can be expected that Kenting’s underwater scenery and species will become richer.

Translated by：Kevin Lax
Source：Kenting National Park Headquarters