Yangtze River ecosystem shows marked recovery after years of restoration efforts

Scientists from Tsinghua University and the Chinese Academy of Ecological Design evaluated changes in the Yangtze River basin from 2022 to 2024, documenting a rise in native fish species from 193 to 230 and an increase in bottom-dwelling species to 107 by 2024. Notable recoveries included the reappearance of Coilia ectenes after three decades and Anguilla japonica after more than twenty years in the Chishui tributary. The finless dolphin population, estimated at 1,012 individuals in 2017, reached 1,426 by 2025.

Restoration actions involved shutting down 342 small hydropower stations and dismantling 300 obstructive structures, improving river flow for migratory fish. Wetland regeneration in the Dongting area and expanded aquatic vegetation in Taihu also contributed to the ecosystem’s revival. Lead researchers Jianfeng Peng and Dong Wang argue that these outcomes underscore the need for holistic water-conservation policies.