China will establish a monitoring database of cay ecology according to international standards.
China's first oceanic ecology station was built in Beihai city in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region over the weekend by the State Oceanic Administration.
Cay, known as the "ocean tropical rain forest", is one of the most important habitats for marine life. It is considered the most diversified eco-system in the world.
Coral reefs are of great value in safeguarding marine eco-balance, protecting seacoasts and islands as well as developing tourism and oceanic fisheries.
Scientists have found nearly 30 kinds of cay in the Beibu Gulf,in south China. The oceanic ecology station's task will be to carry out a long-term survey on the cay's condition.
(Xinhua News Agency December 31, 2001)
