South Penghu Marine National Park, Marine national park in Penghu Archipelago, Taiwan
South Penghu Marine National Park is a protected marine area covering several islands in the Penghu Archipelago in Taiwan. The reserve includes coral reefs, sandy beaches, shallow lagoons, and different underwater habitats spread across the island surfaces.
The government formally established the protected waters in 2014 to preserve the region's coastal and underwater environments. This decision followed years of discussions about fishing practices and reef conservation in the area.
Residents from nearby villages gather seaweed and oysters in the shallow coastal zones using methods passed down through families. This work follows the tide cycles and shapes daily life in the communities around the park.
Park authorities organize snorkeling and diving trips between April and October when sea conditions are usually safe. Visitors should check with local offices about weather patterns and wave forecasts before any trip.
Along the coastline lie volcanic rock formations from the Miocene epoch, including hexagonal basalt columns and caves carved by the sea. These geological features formed roughly 18 million years ago and are visible from land in some spots.
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