5 million fry released into Xiangxi River
2026-07-18 19:07:38
By Zhou Chunyi
Approximately 5 million fry of Chinese carp were released into the Xiangxi River on July 14 as part of a fish stocking initiative to improve water quality through the natural control of algae.
Approximately 5 million fry of Chinese carp were released into the Xiangxi River on July 14 as part of a fish stocking initiative to improve water quality through the natural control of algae.
A staff member shows fish fry before they are released into the Xiangxi River in Yichang. Photo by Tian Tian and Wan Chenqi.
The four released carp species - Silver Carp, Bighead Carp, Grass Carp, and Blunt-snout Bream - were selected to ensure compatibility with the local ecosystem. These fish feed on algae to control its growth and restore ecological balance.
Fish fry in the Xiangxi River. Photo by Tian Tian and Wan Chenqi.
The Xiangxi River, a 97.3 km first-level tributary of the Yangtze River in Yichang, has long been a focus of local ecological restoration efforts. The fish stocking is part of broader conservation measures under the Yangtze River protection strategy and the decade-long fishing ban, combining routine releases, river patrols, and habitat restoration to reinforce the upper Yangtze ecological barrier.
Fishery patrol officers participate in the fish release and river patrol. Photo by Tian Tian and Wan Chenqi.
Zhou Chongyu, Tian Tian and Wan Chenqi also contributed to this story.
