In Chinese customs the sea turtle is a symbol of longevity and, for that reason, often revered. At times the Commander of the marine navy base on Dongsha Tao gives direct orders to the marines there to protect the turtles. Nonetheless, the sea turtle population in the region is reported to be declining. Senior officers recalled densely populated nesting beaches on the Island 10 to 20 years ago. Liang et al.
Today there are very few turtles nesting on the island.
Fishing methods include the use of bottom trawls fitted with chain rollers, even though this has been outlawed. In addition, during a routine nearshore patrol last year, the Navy confiscated more than 200 kg of KCn solution which fishermen had been using for fish poisoning. These activities have had a devastating impact on local marine organisms and coral reefs. Internal political instability further complicates conservation measures. Just before our expedition left the island, the base Commander ordered the enforcement of beach barricades for security reasons.