There’s a unique algal reef ecosystem in Northwestern Taiwan, Datan algal reef. The Datan algal reef has been designated as a Mission Blue Hope Spot in Feb. 2019 and deemed as an important ocean site and ecosystem.

The Datan algal reef is a unique biotic reef with more than 7,500 years of history, mainly constructed by crustose coralline algae (CCA). It has a rich biodiversity, the porous reef body gives living space to an abundance of marine creatures, including many endangered species.

A recent study by Academia Sinica of Taiwan recorded: 22 families and 34 species of fish; 14 families and 52 species of crabs. 8 phyla, 44 families, and over 50 macroinvertebrates species, and 49 macroalgae species, 80% of the crustose coralline algae species were previously unknown.

Nevertheless, this amazing algal reef ecosystem is under deadly threat due to a liquefied natural gas (LNG) receiving port project.