ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF THE FIRST DAM ON YANGTZE MAIN STREAM AND FUTURE CONSERVATION RECOMMENDATIONS: A REVIEW OF THE PAST 60 YEARS

Abstract

The Gezhouba Dam was the first and lowermost dam on the major stem of the Yangtze River. Up to now, the dam has been operating for more than 35 years. The time period was a fast economic development stage in the Yangtze basin. Therefore, the entire Yangtze aquatic ecosystem has been highly affected by various anthropogenic activities. Especially, the fish population and distribution in the Yangtze River have been largely altered. This study reviews the ecological effects of the Gezhouba Dam to the Yangtze aquatic biodiversity for the past 60 years based on literatures. It was concluded that the pre-assessment of the Gezhouba Dam on Yangtze fishes in 1970s was appropriate. Blocking the migration of migratory fishes, such as Chinese sturgeon Acipenser sinensis, and the four major Chinese carps, was a critical adverse effect. Currently, the Yangtze aquatic biodiversity is facing further problems not only the existence of the Gezhouba Dam but also anthropogenic activities. Effective and practical protected measures are recommended and should be conducted urgently to rescue the Yangtze aquatic biodiversity.