Community-based marine biodiversity conservation

The community group formulated an initiative called “Send Horseshoe Crabs Home”. Six members rescue horseshoe crabs that have been accidentally caught in fishing nets and record their size and numbers daily.  Data obtained were provided to the Guangxi Key Laboratory of Beibu Gulf Marine Biodiversity Conservation to study the landing pathways of the horseshoe crabs. From 2021 to the present, they have released over ten thousand horseshoe crabs back into the ocean.

At Sanniang Bay Primary School, we use methods such as eco-friendly vegetable gardens and horseshoe crab art exhibitions to inspire children to understand the ocean and the importance of conservation. We also supported the formation of a “Sea Song Squad”, with children collecting local fishing songs, stories, and folklore. Simultaneously, we promote horseshoe crab science education at school to increase community participation.

Many tourists visit Sanniang Bay to see the Chinese white dolphins, without paying much attention to the fishers’ lifestyle and village culture. We believe that the initial development of ecotourism must incorporate knowledge on local ecological resources and respect for nature’s fragile equilibrium. We aim to motivate villagers to learn more about the history and biocultural values of their village.