Taoyuan Guan-Xin Algal Reefs Ecosystem Wildlife Refuge

Information

Date of foundation	July, 07, 2014
Area( hectare )	315
Primary Object for Protection	Mixed marine and river mouth ecosystems
Scope of Administration	This refuge is situated in Baosheng Village of Guanyin Township and Yonghsin and Yongan Villages of Hsinwu Township, Taoyuan County. The total area is 315 hectares. It is divided into the core zone, buffer zone, and sustainable use zone.
Authority in-charge-of	Taoyuan County Government

In a sunny July day, when the tide is low, ligiidae, eriphioidea and sebastiscus marmoratus can be seen in the algae reefs, which are 6000 to 7000 years old. While coral reefs are formed from animals, algae reefs are made from plants—when algae capable of calcification accumulate on a hard substance. Algae reefs can adapt to inferior environments, such as deep waters, intertidal zones and salinity variations. In Taoyuan, they are advantageous in the coastal ecosystem. In addition to its extremely slow growth and rarity, algae reefs also play an important role in the ecosystem. Their porous structure provides a good environment for a variety of fish, shrimps and shellfish to live. So far, 10 large algae and 129 animal species have been discovered here. In recent years, algae reefs have been faced with survival threats. This is why algae reef protection zones have been established to preserve such unique ecosystems.