SEOUL, April 23 (AJP) - Expectations are rising for new discoveries in this year’s regular catch season along the Han River, following last year’s rare find of a protected species that underscored improving ecological conditions in the capital’s main waterway.
The Seoul Metropolitan Government on Thursday conducted a fish species survey near Bamseom Island beneath Seogang Bridge in Yeongdeungpo-gu, western Seoul, as part of its semiannual monitoring program.
Last year’s survey yielded a notable discovery — the endangered golden mandarin fish, designated as a natural monument, was found south of the Jamsil submerged weir. Researchers also identified multiple endemic species native to the Han River, including chamjunggogi, gashinapjiri and kkeokji, pointing to gradual improvements in the river’s waterfront ecosystem.
The latest survey aims to assess water quality gains and gauge the extent of ecological restoration. Officials conducted on-site inspections by boat, examining fish distribution and population density across key habitats.
The Han River fish survey is carried out twice a year — in the first and second halves — at eight monitoring points across six sections of the river’s main stream. The findings provide granular data on environmental changes and serve as a baseline for a five-year ecosystem research initiative.
City officials said the results will support continuous monitoring of the river’s ecological health and help guide policy efforts to restore the natural environment of urban waterways.
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