Editorial | Harbour life reflects the tide of progress
- Study of magnificent Hong Kong landmark finds surprising number of corals and other marine species, thanks to cleaner water
Flanked by iconic skyscrapers and landmarks, Victoria Harbour has long been the symbol of Hong Kong’s prosperity and vitality.
But little did we know that the once heavily polluted sea has gradually evolved into a vibrant habitat for corals and other marine life, apparently thanks to prolonged government efforts in cleaning up the water.
According to an underwater survey by City University, the harbour is home to 35 coral species, including black coral, stony coral and octocoral species identified in five areas. Other marine life found includes scallops, festive sea slugs and double-ended pipefish.
The findings come as a pleasant surprise to many who often associate the harbour with being nothing more than a magnificent city backdrop.
The research team is to be commended for its efforts in charting the unknown waters so to speak. For all its fame and beauty, the harbour has never been surveyed for coral growth.
The project involved scuba-diving in seven natural coastlines and five artificial breakwaters along two sides of the harbour. After two years of study, corals were identified in five sites, including Cape Collinson Lighthouse in Chai Wan, Green Island off the coast of Kennedy Town, Fat Tong Chau in Tseung Kwan O and Devil’s Peak in Yau Tong.