The annual fishing moratorium in South China Sea waters has comprehensively protected marine resources, yielding both ecological and economic benefits.

South China Sea waters north of the 12th parallel north on Saturday concluded a three-and-a-half-month annual fishing moratorium, which started at noon on May 1 this year.

Tan Xiangning, director of the Fisheries Resources Protection Department under the Yangjiang Agriculture and Rural Bureau, explained that the timing of the fishing ban is closely tied to the marine environment and the growth cycle of fish. Starting in May, as the Northern Hemisphere enters summer, rising water temperatures and ample sunlight foster the abundant proliferation of algae and plankton, providing ample food for juvenile fish.

"This period is when fish grow vigorously. Taking a fishing moratorium during this time can avoid capturing large numbers of spawning parent fish and rapidly growing juveniles. After the fishing moratorium, the number of economically valuable fish has significantly increased," said Tan.

Relevant data indicate that the fishing moratorium prevents overfishing-induced declines in fish populations and aids in the recovery of fish numbers. In the long run, the seasonal fishing ban system ensures the sustainable utilization of fishery resources and upholds marine ecological balance.