The National Academy of Marine Research held the "Second NODASS Marine Big Data Competition " today (6th) in Kaohsiung. After intense preliminary and semi-final rounds, the finals took place in the morning, where participants presented their reports on-site. In the aftern oon, Huang Hsiang-wen, Deputy Minister of the Ocean Affairs Council, hosted the award ceremony, attended by Legislator Hsu Chih-chieh, Legislative Assistant Shunai Gulas from Legis lator Lin Dai-hua ''s office, Director Hong Ching-hong from the Kaohsiung City Government ''s Ocean Affairs Bureau, Principal Cheng Wen-yi from Kaohsiung Girls '' Senior High School, and Chen Jianhong, President of the National Academy of Marine Research. They encouraged young students to explore marine issues using big data and promote su stainable development of the ocean.In this final round, two outstanding teams were selected from both the high school and university categories. Among the high school teams, Tainan Girls '' Senior High School ''s team "Navy " presented their topic "Environmental Key to Chiayi Oysters: The Relationship Between Water Quality Factors and Yield Trends, " utilizing the NODASS database to analyze various marine data. They discovered that dissolved oxygen, nitrate nitrogen, silicate, and zinc significantly affect oyster yields along the western coast.Kaohsiung Girls '' Senior High School ''s team "Little Sea Lion – You You Yi Tiao Cup Fish Swallowed a Pumpkin-sized Zhen Zhu Ya! " explored "Changes in Chlorophyll-a Concentration in Southern Taiwan Waters During Typhoons. " Their research showed that chlorophyll-a concentration varied most significantly two to three days before and after the typhoon ''s center passed closest.In the university category, National Sun Yat-sen University ''s Department of Marine Science team "University Needs Four Years to Graduate " analyzed "Hydrological Field Analysis During Typhoon Haikui Events in Southeast Taiwan Waters. " They used data from Typhoon Haikui ''s path in September 2023 to analyze phenomena of "warm eddies " and "cold eddies " along the typhoon ''s path, clarifying how typhoons form in the Pacific and are influenced by ocean conditions. Finally, a joint team from the Naval Academy and National Defense University ’s College of Science and Technology called "Descendants of the Ocean " developed an "AI Unmanned Marine Vehicle Deployment Decision-Making and Risk Management System. " They utilized long-term and short-term memory deep learning models for sea condition forecasting, comparing buoy data with AI training results for simulated data optimization. Th is data is then applied to disaster warning systems to provide real-time notifications to the public and government agencies when ocean data shows anomalies, enabling timely disast er prevention measures.Additionally, in the NODASS graphic creation project, students combined their life experiences with the NODASS database to create interesting connections bet ween art and marine science. One outstanding high school team ''s artwork from Kaohsiung Girls '' Senior High School symbolized a typhoon, a disturbance, and changes in marine primary productivity! In one corner of the painting, a fading cyclone represents an approaching typh oon; the surging waves seem like cries from the ocean, depicting the turbulence and surges during a typhoon. The scattered points across the painting represent thriving plankton du e to nutrient salts, while the central waves resemble a rainbow.Deputy Minister Huang Hsiang-wen represented Chairperson Guan Biling to greet participants on-site, emphasizing that although she could not attend personally, she was following the competition via live stream. Huang noted that obtaining marine data used to be challenging; however, with the estab lishment of the National Ocean Database And Sharing System (NODASS) by the National Academy of Marine Research, rich data resources are now available. Each participating team demon strated exceptional analytical skills and innovative problem-solving abilities throughout the preliminary and semi-final rounds, showcasing limitless possibilities for the future o f our oceans. The ocean remains a key area for human development; big data will be an important tool for deciphering its mysteries. He encouraged participating students to contribu te their wisdom and strength towards sustainable development of marine resources.President Chen Jianhong stated that combining climate (Climate) with ocean (Ocean) provides context for our entire planet (Planet). With better data (Better data), we can make more accurate decisions (Better decisions) leading to better outcomes (Better outcomes). Our marine big data competition primarily focuses on data-driven exploration of various challenges facing our planet. The results created through your efforts can provide crucial foundations for current scientific research and assist decision-makers in formulating more precise and forward-looking strategies.The Kaohsiung City Government ''s Ocean Affairs Bureau expressed that this event holds multiple positive meanings; it will encourage students to become excellent marine citizens who can grow into technological m arine citizens in the future. By integrating marine issues with technology, they can actively respond to environmental challenges and work towards sustainable oceans.

Marking a significant step forward in advancing marine technology under the current Indo-Pacific strategy, the National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR) signed a Memorandum of Und erstanding (MOU) with the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) of India on November 20, 2024. The signing ceremony, held at India ''s Ministry of Earth Sciences, was witnessed by Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Hsiang-wen Huang, Deputy Minister of the Ocean Affairs Council (OA C), and Bor-huei Hsieh, Representative at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India.       Located in Chennai, South India, NIOT has been a cornerstone of India ''s marine technology development since its establishment 21 years ago in 1993 by the Ministry of Earth Sciences. Its primary mission is to develop reliable ocean technologies to ad dress challenges related to the exploration of non-living resources and the sustainable utilization of living resources within India ''s Exclusive Economic Zone, an area roughly two-thirds the size of India ''s landmass. During the meeting, Balaji Ramakrishnan, Director of NIOT, highlighted the institute ’s recent advancements in marine technology, including deep-sea vehicle development, temperature gradient and wave energy technologies, and marine radar-based meteorological observ ation systems. He expressed hope that the MOU would foster closer collaboration between Taiwan and India in technology exchange.       Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, shared progress on key research topics within the ministry, such as marine radar observation, climate change, un derwater observation technologies, the sustainable use of marine biological and non-biological resources, and marine energy development. He also emphasized the importance of fields like marine biology, marine microbiology, and biotechnology, identifying them as priorities in the future development of the blue economy. Ravichandran expressed optimism that thi s collaboration would significantly enhance both nations '' capacities in marine research.       Deputy Minister Hsiang-wen Huang of the OAC noted the historical connection between Taiwan and India, referencing OAC Minister Kuan Bi-ling ''s previous role as President of the Taiwan-India Parliamentary Friendship Association and her visit to India, which received positive feedback at the time. Deputy Minister Huang e mphasized that the inclusion of sustainable ocean-themed pens in the MOU signing ceremony symbolizes the shared commitment to ocean protection. She elaborated that since its incept ion, the OAC has been dedicated to positioning Taiwan as a globally oriented maritime nation while actively engaging in international ocean cooperation. With the NAMR serving as Ta iwan ''s marine think tank, the organization leverages its extensive expertise and experience to support the OAC in addressing critical ocean-related matters. Huang expressed hope that t his MOU will strengthen international collaboration in research, technology exchange, and talent development programs, driving innovation and advancement in marine technology. In a ddition to fostering Taiwan-India cooperation in marine observation and conservation research, she expressed optimism about expanding collaboration between the two nations in polar scientific research.       Representative Bor-huei Hsieh of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India   provided historical context about Taiwan and highlighted its global significance, framing the development of Taiwan-India relations. He referenced the Indian Ministry of External Affairs '' statements about the close cultural, educational, and trade-investment ties between the two nations. Hsieh also mentioned President Lai Ching-te ''s congratulatory message to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 5, 2024, following his re-election, expressing hope for continued prosperity under Modi ''s leadership and a deepening of Taiwan-India relations. Hsieh affirmed that the MOU would further enhance bilateral collaboration in marine research.       NAMR President Jiahn-horng Chen shared insights into NAMR ''s 2021 initiative to observe temperature, wave, and current characteristics in polar regions, contributing to a better understanding of polar research. He expressed hope for close r collaboration with India ''s NIOT under the Ministry of Earth Sciences to expand Taiwan-India exchanges and partnerships in the Indian Ocean and beyond. Under the leadership of former NAMR President Yung-fa ng Chiu and National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) Science and Technology Division Head Chin-tsan Wang, close cooperation between the two parties laid the groundwork for th e recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with India. Throughout the preparatory phase, the NSTC ''s Science and Technology Division in India facilitated numerous bilateral online meetings and made several visits to NIOT ''s director and researchers to discuss potential collaborations. To explore the feasibility of joint efforts in buoy observation and related technologies, the team also conducted m ultiple visits to Dr. M. Ravichandran, Secretary of the Ministry of Earth Sciences, to explore possible solutions for further collaboration. Despite challenges posed by the pandemi c and ongoing discussions to harmonize technical approaches, the continued efforts of the OAC and NAMR led to the formal signing of the MOU on November 20, 2024. NAMR is envisaged to collaborate with NIOT on a range of marine research projects, including the development and application of buoy observation technology, oceanic physical proce sses in the Indian Ocean, interactions between oceans and tropical cyclones, and advancements in ocean radar and satellite observation technologies. Through this MOU, the two insti tutions aim to jointly advance marine science research and environmental monitoring technologies in the Indo-Pacific region. This partnership seeks to foster closer collaboration, enhance technical capabilities, and drive innovation in marine research fields for both nations.

After a year of dedicated effort, the National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR), in collaboration with the Department of Oceanography at National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU) su ccessfully passed the review by Germany ''s Alfred Wegener Institute. In August this year (2024), NAMR represented Taiwan aboard the internationally renowned "RV Polarstern " icebreaker, embarking on a two-month marine science expedition to the Arctic Ocean north of 80 °N. Through hands-on participation in oceanographic surveys, the team obtained invaluable hydrographic data from the Arctic Ocean, marking a pioneering achievement for Taiwan ''s marine research institutions. NAMR President Jiahn-Horng Chen emphasized a significant milestone in Taiwan ''s polar research history: on June 25, 2022. NAMR, in collaboration with Central University and Nicolaus Copernicus University of Poland, established the Taiwan Polar Research Work station in Longyearbyen, Svalbard. Marked with a national flag and plaque, this station became Taiwan ''s first research outpost in the Arctic. Building on this achievement, the current opportunity for international collaboration in the Arctic Ocean further highlights the growing gl obal recognition of Taiwan ''s contributions to polar marine science and marks a new chapter in the nation ''s ocean research journey. Ke-hsien Fu , Research Associate at NAMR, participated in the Arctic science expedition ARCWATCH2 aboard the RV Polarstern. He shared that the mission was a multinational collabor ative effort involving 12 countries and 53 researchers. The primary objective was to continue long-term scientific investigations of the Arctic Ocean. Global climate change has sig nificantly impacted the Arctic Ocean, with the extent of sea ice coverage continuing to shrink. For example, satellite observations in early September this year revealed that the A rctic Ocean ''s summer sea ice coverage reached its ninth-lowest extent in the past 45 years, maintaining a negative annual trend of reduction in summer sea ice. Fu noted that the RV Polarstern expedition departed from Norway and ventured more than 12,000 kilometers north into the Arctic Ocean. Along the journey, the team conducted a serie s of marine and sea ice investigations, including monitoring changes in seawater temperature and ocean currents, collecting chemical samples, studying marine fishery resources, and examining the interactions between sea ice and the ocean. The primary aim was to better understand the dynamics and environmental changes in the Arctic Ocean under the influence o f global climate change. Taiwanese scientists aboard the RV Polarstern focused on observing and analyzing vertical profiles of temperature and salinity, as well as ocean currents, along the ship ''s route. The subsequent research and analyses will provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of global climate change, enhance predictive capabilities, and offer foundational data for Taiwan ''s academic and research community in Arctic studies. These findings will also serve as critical references for developing marine policies and advancing international ocean affairs . The expedition was also marked by several memorable moments. Early in the journey, a crew member fell ill and required an emergency return to seek medical support, disrupting the planned route and survey schedule. Despite this setback, the research team successfully completed all planned tasks. During the voyage, the team encountered a wild polar bear hunti ng on the ice. They also worked on sea ice in extremely heavy cold-weather gear, conducting research activities at the North Pole (90 °N), including hydrographic profile surveys. The expedition included taking helicopters from the research vessel to nearby ice sheets for additional hydrographic measurements. On t he return journey, the team experienced a strong geomagnetic storm, offering the rare opportunity to witness the northern lights. Assistant Professor Ying-chih Fang from the Department of Oceanography at National Sun Yat-sen University highlighted that Taiwan ''s participation in this multinational Arctic Ocean research collaboration demonstrates its proactive engagement with global issues and the changing polar marine environment. This endeavor not only underscores Taiwan ''s commitment to addressing global challenges but also lays the groundwork for fostering further international collaborations, marking a significant step forward in connecting Taiw an with Arctic Ocean scientific research.

A joint research team from the Marine Ecology and Conservation Research Center of the National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR) and the Institute of Marine Biology at National Tai wan Ocean University (NTU) has made a groundbreaking discovery in the waters around Taiping Island, the southernmost territory of Taiwan. During a survey of cryptobenthic fish spec ies, the team identified a new Gobiidae, or goby, species, which they have named "Fusigobius taipinensis " in honor of its discovery location. The species will soon be officially published in the international taxonomy journal Zootaxa, adding to Taiwan ''s already impressive tally of highly diverse fish species and underscoring the ongoing achievements of marine ecological research on Taiping Island.       Professor Yi-hsiung Chen from NTU ''s Institute of Marine Biology noted that gobies constitute the largest family of fish, with over 2,000 species globally and more than 260 species recorded in Taiwan. Spindle gobie s are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Indian and Western Pacific Oceans, inhabiting sandy areas near rocky and coral reefs as small to medium-sized botto m-dwelling fish. The newly named Fusigobius taipinensis is a cryptic species residing in coral reef zones, making it difficult to detect. After conducting detailed comparisons with existing fish taxonomic data from Taiwan and the South China Sea, the research team employed morphological and molecular evidence to distinguish this species from closely related spindle gobies, confirming its status as a new species.       The Fusigobius taipinensis is the sixth species of spindle goby identified in Taiwan ''s waters. It has been observed to inhabit coral reef zones at depths of 5 to 20 meters around Taiping Island, with rare occurrences recorded in the waters near Xiaoliuqiu off sout hwestern Taiwan. Adults are about 3 –6 cm in length, with a translucent body featuring numerous small yellow spots and two small deep black circular spots on their dorsal fin, distinct from the coloration of other sp indle goby species. Chih-wei Chang, Director of NAMR ''s Marine Ecology and Conservation Research Center, shared insights into the fascinating history of fish surveys around Taiping Island. He noted that NTU ''s team had conducted sporadic fish surveys in the area as early as 1994. During these surveys, they collected an unprecedented goby species living in a symbiotic relationship with snapping shrimp, which was later published in 2006 under the name "Amblyeleotris taipinensis. " Since 2022, NAMR has collaborated with NTU to conduct comprehensive fish surveys around Taiping Island, culminating in the identification and naming of another goby species uniqu e to the area this year. Both goby species rely on the coral reef habitats of Taiping Island, underscoring the need to prioritize ecological conservation in these waters to protect their critical habitats.        NAMR President Jiahn-horng Chen highlighted the significance of Taiping Island as Taiwan ''s southernmost territory and the largest natural island in the South China Sea, renowned for its rich biodiversity. However, due to its remote location over 1,600 kilometers from Taiwan, comprehensive ecological surveys and monitoring of its waters have historically been scarce. Thanks to funding from the Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) and unwavering logistica l support from the Coast Guard Administration (CGA), NAMR established the Nansha Marine Station in late 2020. Over the past three years, the research station has facilitated founda tional ecological surveys and active collaborations with academic institutions domestically and internationally. In 2021, NAMR partnered with the Biodiversity Research Center of Ac ademia Sinica to conduct coral reef ecological surveys around Taiping Island. These surveys revealed a significant outbreak of crown-of-thorns starfish, a threat to the coral ecosy stem. In response, the Ocean Conservation Administration (OCA) collaborated with Academia Sinica to remove the starfish and initiated two years of continuous marine ecological moni toring to prevent further outbreaks. This successful collaboration underscores the critical importance of conducting baseline ecological surveys across Taiwan ''s marine territories.

Typhoon Krathon, the most powerful storm to hit southern Taiwan in decades, has brought the region to a standstill. With work and classes suspended across southern counties, reside nts scrambled to prepare for the storm. Fishing boats sought refuge in harbors, and cargo ships rerouted to avoid the typhoon ''s path, leaving Taiwan ''s surrounding waters eerily empty. Yet, amidst this sense of desolation, ocean data buoys deployed by the National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR) and the Central Weather Admini stration continued their vigilant operations, monitoring the typhoon ''s dynamics and relaying real-time information to disaster response agencies to aid in decision-making for disaster prevention and evacuation.        Since 2020, NAMR has deployed ocean data buoys in Taiwan ''s adjacent waters to monitor waves, ocean currents, and strong winds. These buoys transmit real-time data to the National Ocean Database and Sharing System (NODASS), offering crit ical insights for disaster response and mitigation. Each ocean data buoy measures 2.5 meters in diameter and weighs 1,500 kilograms. They are one of the world ''s most crucial marine observation instruments. NAMR has localized and developed these tools, with buoy systems currently installed at Nanwan in Kenting, Dongjiyu in Penghu, Chaoji ng in Keelung, and Honeymoon Bay in Yilan. These buoys represent cutting-edge, locally developed marine monitoring technology. In addition to NAMR, agencies such as the Central Wea ther Administration, Water Resources Agency, and the Transportation Technology Research Center have also installed similar buoy stations tailored to their missions. Data from these stations is integrated into NODASS, where it is accessible to the public.        During typhoons, when ships are grounded, satellites are obscured by clouds, and drones cannot take flight, ocean data buoys are the sole reliable source of maritime information. Using 4G/5G or satellite communication systems, these buoys relay real-time conditions at sea, providing essential updates for disaster response teams to track the typhoon ''s progress. Even with advanced typhoon forecasting models, buoy data remains indispensable for calibration, ensuring accurate predictions.        Before Typhoon Krathon made landfall, the sea had already shown its immense power. The NAMR recorded wave heights exceeding 7 meters near Nanwan in Kenting, with offshore waves ap proaching 10 meters and surges peaking momentarily at over 15 meters. As the typhoon continues to approach, wave activity is expected to intensify further, potentially bringing unp recedented impacts to coastal areas. Residents living near the coast are strongly advised to remain vigilant and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

In recognition of Professor Kwang-tsao Shao ''s extraordinary contribution to marine science and his selfless donation of lifetime research data to the National Ocean Database and Sharing System (NODASS) for public access, th e National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR) presented him with the “Meritorious Contribution to the Ocean ” Award during the 2024 NODASS Application Workshop held today (Sep 26th). This gesture honors his unwavering dedication to ocean research and his exemplary role as a pioneer in ma rine biology.        Professor Shao is an authority in international fish diversity studies. After completing his studies in the United States, he returned to Taiwan with a vision to preserve and make academic research publicly accessible through databases, thereby supporting species conservation and sustainable use policies. In 1988, he established Taiwan ''s first biodiversity database, the “Fish Database of Taiwan, ” which includes information on fish species '' scientific names, distribution, morphology, and essential descriptions. Additionally, Professor Shao spearheaded the establishment of several national biodiversity databases and, in 2001, advocated for Taiwan ''s membership in the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). These efforts have brought international attention to Taiwan ''s rich biodiversity, ensuring its enduring global recognition.        Although Professor Shao retired in 2016, he remains passionately engaged in marine academia, education, policy-making, and public communication. His tireless efforts in marine bio logy research and conservation continue to earn him widespread acclaim as a trailblazer in Taiwan ''s marine biology community. Professor Shao has long supported the Ocean Basic Act directive to establish the National Ocean Database and Sharing System (NODASS) and proactively ap proached NAMR, offering to donate all his lifetime research data free of charge. His contributions have significantly enriched the database, making him the first marine scholar to contribute such valuable resources to NODASS. Minister Kuan Bi-ling of the Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) specifically directed NAMR to publicly recognize Professor Shao ''s passion for academia and public service as an exemplary role model for society.        NAMR further noted that NODASS, which opened to the public in May 2022, expanded its offerings in May 2023 to include diversified map data downloads and application services. By t his year, NODASS has aggregated 107 datasets from 29 domestic and international organizations. Monthly unique website visits have increased by approximately 27%, surpassing 130,000 visits, with 38 datasets now openly available for free public access. These datasets cover a wide range of marine information, including hydrology, ecology, seabed topography, and cultural data, with over 28,000 downloads recorded to date.       The NAMR hosted the "2024 National Ocean Database and Sharing System (NODASS) Application Workshop " today (26th) at the Ocean View Flagship Conference Hall, Building A, Kaohsiung Software Park. To honor Professor Shao ''s contributions, the workshop featured a special award presentation by Hsiang-wen Huang, Deputy Minister of the OAC. Deputy Minister Huang stated that "Data transparency is crucial for effective policy-making. The OAC will coordinate efforts across government agencies to enrich the shared pool of marine data. NODASS serves as a b ridge to the future, and we hope more people will join the mission to explore the ocean. "       In his acceptance speech, Professor Shao reflected, "Although we have achieved some progress, we are still in the stage of ‘the revolution is not yet complete; comrades, strive on! '' The construction and integration of foundational biodiversity surveys and databases remain areas where we must collectively strive forward. "       Chien-erh Weng, Vice President of NAMR, expressed gratitude for Professor Shao ''s contributions and expressed hope that his leadership would inspire other marine scholars to share their data and agree to include it in the NODASS platform. This would definitel y amplify the value of these precious marine resources. He further emphasized that NAMR is committed to continuously refining its efforts, gathering a wider range of marine data, a nd sharing it with the public to collectively lead Taiwan into a new era of the blue economy.

On August 5, the Coast Guard Administration of the Ocean Affairs Council recovered a yellow disc-shaped device marked with the GoOcean logo from a high coastal area in Wang ''an, Penghu. Upon notification, it was confirmed that this was a scientific drifting buoy deployed by the National Academy of Marine Research in July. The academy expressed surpris e upon receiving the report and confirming its location, as photos showed the buoy on high ground next to rocky shores —an area typically unreachable by seawater —estimated to be 6 meters above sea level and 50 meters horizontally from the shoreline. This 11-kilogram buoy was likely pushed ashore by storm surges and large waves during the t yphoon.During a typhoon, most people only experience strong winds and heavy rain on land. However, what do marine organisms face in both the surface and subsurface worlds during su ch storms? How do ocean currents move objects on the sea surface under typhoon conditions? The academy ''s scientific buoy experienced a three-day "adventure " during Typhoon Kimi, shedding light on some of the unexplored and intriguing "mysteries of the ocean under a typhoon. "By comparing the buoy ''s serial number and GPS track records, the academy confirmed that this buoy was indeed the "ocean wave and current observation buoy " that went missing during Typhoon Kimi ''s impact on Taiwan. It is speculated that strong winds, low pressure, and severe sea conditions during the typhoon caused "storm surges, " which led to abnormal water level rises near the coast. Coupled with waves taller than a story, these conditions effectively "threw " the buoy onto high ground.Assistant researcher Lu Yijie noted that analyzing the buoy ''s drift trajectory and observed wave changes revealed that since the Central Weather Bureau issued a marine typhoon warning on July 22, under the influence of peripheral circulati on from the typhoon, it rapidly drifted southward from offshore Xiyu in Penghu and circled around Wang ''an and Huayu areas for 175 kilometers within 60 hours. During this time, wave heights increased dramatically as Typhoon Kimi entered the Taiwan Strait —from less than 1 meter for small waves to 4.93 meters for large waves —resulting in wave energy at the buoy ''s location being one to two hundred times greater than normal sea conditions. The buoy ''s battered exterior suggests it endured significant torment near rocky shores close to Wang ''an Water An Port.The academy emphasized that based on the buoy ''s observational data and its condition upon recovery, its erratic path and recorded waves nearly two stories high indicate that had someone fallen into the sea during a typhoon wa rning, not only would it be difficult to determine where they would drift, but they could also be pulled by powerful forces with potentially catastrophic consequences. Therefore, t hey reiterated that one must never underestimate the power and threats posed by oceans during typhoons —whether onshore or offshore.Chen Jianhong, president of the National Academy of Marine Research, stated that under Chairperson Guan Biling ''s guidance to strengthen marine affairs responsibilities related to "three assurances and four seas, " the academy has deployed nine fixed buoys and 27 coastal marine radars to continuously monitor changes in marine environments 24/7. Through platforms like GoOcean for marine recr eational risk information and NODASS for national ocean data, they provide services for marine living, research, and operational needs. The academy is also actively seeking funding support for related projects to enhance Taiwan ''s capabilities in monitoring marine spatial environments and information services while continuously improving data accumulation and intelligent applications for marine safety, sc ientific research, and evidence-based governance.

The National Academy of Marine Research held the second "NODASS Marine Big Data Competition " workshop from July 17 to 19 at Kaohsiung Girls '' High School, with 15 teams from high schools and vocational schools and 11 teams from universities participating in the training. During the three-day workshop, teacher-student t eams learned to use big data analysis software to propose solutions to marine issues based on the National Ocean Database And Sharing System (NODASS). The workshop also collaborate d with CommonWealth Magazine to train students in data visualization and organized multiple marine science lectures to inspire students '' interest in scientific research and their potential for independent study, fostering their inquiry and practical skills.This year ''s competition introduced a new NODASS graphic creation category, where students combined their life experiences with the NODASS database to create many creative and touching works . One team drew inspiration from a suspended oyster farming scene, using each oyster as a data point, with the oyster lines representing the connecting lines in a data line chart, resulting in a complete data line graph. This illustration reflects that suspended farming should occur in areas with higher seawater levels; however, this particular site is shall ow, which, while allowing oysters to survive, can lead to the release of some toxic substances. The hope is to utilize the National Academy ''s data to discuss these issues and reduce threats and pollution to the marine ecosystem.Liu Guolie, Secretary-General of the Ocean Affairs Council, stated that the ocean currently faces many challenges. The Chairperson of the Ocean Affairs Council, Guan Biling, proposed strategies addressing three aspects: national security, public safety, and peace; and fo ur ocean-related areas: marine pollution prevention, marine waste management, marine ecological conservation, and marine industry development. In this preliminary proposal stage, w e see that team contents resonate with these strategies, such as water quality monitoring, sea turtles, ecosystems, blue carbon, fisheries (oysters, eel fry, black tuna, mackerel, etc.), ocean energy generation, artificial reefs, and sea temperature forecasting. These topics give us confidence in the future of our marine nation. Young students are an importa nt talent pool for the country; many high school participants from last year ''s first competition continued their studies in marine-related fields at university. Additionally, some high school teams used NODASS big data research to compete internationally. These are significant achievements of the Ocean Affairs Council in promoting youth participation in international marine affairs. It is hoped that every participating teacher and s tudent can showcase the characteristics of citizens of a marine nation and bring glory to Taiwan through marine science.Chen Jianhong, President of the National Academy of Marine R esearch, also mentioned that 93% of global warming is due to heat absorbed by the oceans; thus, oceans bear a significant burden. Understanding ocean phenomena through big data mon itoring and analysis is an essential part of our curriculum. In the preliminary competition, we saw much creativity and enthusiasm from students. Some students wanted to understand changes in ocean temperature, salinity, sea level height, and their impacts; others were curious about the reasons behind sea turtle strandings; while others focused on industry-r elated technologies and solutions. These questions and phenomena hope to be inferred through various possibilities by integrating other data with the NODASS system.After completing the workshop courses, participating teams must submit research proposals on topics related to marine ecology, marine culture, marine science, or marine energy for the competition. Eight teams each from high schools/vocational schools and universities will be selected for the final round in November. We look forward to students '' impressive performances and fruitful results. For detailed competition information, please refer to the NODASS Marine Big Data Competition website.

The National Academy of Marine Research held the "2024 National Marine Talent Development Forum - Taiwan Sea Grant Program Launch " today (17th), gathering experts and scholars from academia, government, industry, and marine research fields to discuss the Taiwan Sea Grant Program. The forum aims to call on th e public to take practical actions and coexist with the ocean.The "National Marine Talent Development Forum " is part of the National Ocean Day series of events. This year ''s theme, "Exploring the Ocean, Setting Sail Against the Wind, " continues to resonate with the United Nations World Oceans Day theme "Awaken New Depths. " It hopes for a deeper understanding, empathy, cooperation, and commitment towards the ocean. The forum also aims to establish a marine consciousness among the people and showcase a commitment to the ocean ''s depth while reflecting on Taiwan ''s glorious history and looking towards the future.At this Taiwan Sea Grant Program forum, Professor Yoo Seung-bum from Inha University in South Korea was invited to share practica l approaches and successful experiences from Korea, providing guidance for Taiwan ''s initial planning. The forum includes three sessions: "Innovation and Development in Marine Industry, " "Marine Ecological Conservation and Sustainability, " and "Citizen Participation and Impact in Marine Affairs. " Professors from 12 universities across Taiwan will share their insights on marine research, services, and education, discussing existing marine resources and future policy recomm endations. The relevant content presented at this forum will be compiled into a publication titled "Marine Affairs Special Publication 3 - Taiwan Sea Grant Program Launch. "Deputy Director Huang Hsiang-wen of the Ocean Affairs Council stated: "We hope to achieve the 2030 ocean decade goals through the participation of regional partners across Taiwan, realizing a vision for sustainable oceans and aligning with internatio nal standards to build a model marine nation. " National Academy of Marine Research President Chen Chien-hung also mentioned: "We are in the preliminary stages of seeking regional cooperation partners. We welcome advanced individuals as well as enterprises, legal entities, NGOs, and local organizations in terested in the Sea Grant Program to participate. We hope that 20 years from now, when we look back at the development of Sea Grant, everyone will feel proud.

The Ocean Science Sequence (OSS), developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in collaboration with over 70 scientists and educators since 2005, is the world ''s most comprehensive ocean literacy curriculum. It is based on the Seven Principles of Ocean Literacy, offering a systematic approach to marine science education. In 2023, the Oce an Affairs Council (OAC) obtained official authorization to translate and promote the OSS curriculum in Taiwan, targeting elementary and junior high school levels. This year, the O AC has further launched a national initiative to subsidize local education projects. Starting with five counties and cities across northern and southern Taiwan, the program aims to train seed teachers in ocean education, link international marine education standards, and develop Taiwan-specific ocean literacy teaching plans. Through the adoption of the OSS c urriculum, the program aspires to establish Taiwan as a global model for ocean literacy. In 2024, the OAC will begin subsidizing local governments to promote the OSS curriculum as a benchmark for ocean literacy education. From Keelung City in the north to Pingtung Cou nty in the south, the initiative will introduce OSS materials nationwide. The effort is supported by the National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR), which has assembled the Taiwan OSS Ocean Literacy Team, comprising experts from the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology, the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, and the Lawrence Hall of Science at the University of California, Berkeley. Today (May 30th), Minister Kuan Bi-ling of the OAC and NAMR President Chen Jiahn-horng visited Jian De Elementary School in Keelung City to observe a demonstration class featuring the OSS curriculum. Hosted by Keelung Deputy Mayor Chiu Pei-lin , the event provided a platform to discuss future collaboration between central and local governments to jointly pr omote a model framework for ocean literacy in Taiwan. Today, at Jian De Elementary School in Keelung, the OSS curriculum was conducted in bilingual teaching sessions, offering hands-on and exploratory learning experiences. Teacher Ye h Yun-ching led students in exploring the lesson "Light, Pressure, Temperature, and Salinity, " helping them understand the unique characteristics of different marine zones. Through experiments, students discovered how light, pressure, temperature, and salinity affect marin e environments. Teacher Lin Chan-kuan conducted a session on "Habitat Relationships, " teaching students how organisms adapt to diverse habitats. Students engaged in role-playing and simulation activities to experience the survival strategies of various marine crea tures. Meanwhile, Teacher Li Ming-hsia delivered a lesson on "The Relationship Between Humans and the Ocean, " guiding students to explore the interconnections between human activities and marine ecosystems. Through discussions and group collaboration, students gained a deeper understandi ng of the impact of human behavior on the ocean and the importance of marine conservation. The event was attended by Minister Kuan Bi-ling of the OAC, Keelung Deputy Mayor Chiu Pei-lin, NAMR President Chen Jiahn-horng , and National Museum of Marine Science and Technolo gy Director Chen Su-fen. They participated in a workshop and held discussions with community teachers. Minister Kuan expressed her joy, stating that during her year as head of the Ocean Affairs Council, today marked one of her happiest and most youthful experiences as she joined fifth-grade students in ocean literacy classes. She commended the efforts of all partners dedicated to establishing Taiwan as a global leader in ocean literacy and praised Keelung for its role as a model city in this endeavor. Minister Kuan emphasized the impo rtance of ocean literacy in Taiwan, underscoring the OAC ''s responsibility to establish Taiwan as a benchmark for ocean education. She expressed hope that Taiwan will continue advancing ocean literacy to become a true maritime nation. The OSS curriculum, departing from traditional lecture-based teaching methods, adopts an inquiry-driven exploration model that sparks students '' interest in the ocean. This innovative approach is considered the curriculum ''s most significant value, as it fosters curiosity and a deeper connection to marine science. The integration of the OSS curriculum into bilingual teaching by Keelung ''s teachers was remarkable, showcasing a seamless blend of international educational standards and local creativity. Students fully immersed themselves in exploring ocean science, exemplifying the OAC ''s vision of adopting the OSS curriculum to connect with global initiatives and establish Taiwan as a leading nation in ocean literacy. The collaboration between central and local governments will continue to drive this initiative forward, promoting ocean literacy education. Through engaging and enjoyable courses, children can deepen their understanding of m arine knowledge and develop a heightened awareness of ocean-related issues. Minister Kuan further emphasized that the OSS curriculum is being implemented simultaneously in the United States, South Korea, and Taiwan. Establishing Taiwan as a model nation f or ocean literacy has become a key policy of the OAC. Next year (2025), the "Subsidy Program for Promoting Ocean Affairs in Local Governments " will prioritize the introduction of the OSS curriculum. This includes training seed teachers and enhancing the ocean literacy of students as the first focus area for funding in d eveloping region-specific ocean education programs.

This April, the National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR) hosted the inaugural Vision Marine Conference, bringing together participants from 10 countries to explore global challen ges and solutions in marine science. Among the highlights was a keynote presentation by Song Taeyoon, CEO of South Korea ''s HAEBOM, who discussed the "Application and Advancement of Marine Big Data in South Korea. " His talk emphasized the critical role of marine big data in modern ocean science and management and its significance in fostering sustainable ocean development.         Building on the enthusiasm generated by the conference, NAMR organized three physical and virtual information sessions across northern, central, and southern Taiwan. The final se ssion, held on the 6th, officially kicked off the 2nd NODASS Big Data Competition. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education ''s Earth Science and Geography Resource Center and the Taiwan Marine Education Center, this year ''s competition aims to expand ocean science education to a broader audience. For the first time, the event welcomes not only high school students but also college and university st udents to participate. The competition is centered on the National Ocean Database and Sharing System (NODASS) and aims to cultivate participants '' abilities to utilize marine data to solve ocean-related challenges. It also seeks to promote ocean data literacy among the public, fostering a deeper understanding and practical engagement with marine science.         NODASS integrates domestic and international marine databases, offering a wide array of services, including spatial and temporal queries, map-based searches, ecological data acce ss, station-to-station comparisons, dynamic data visualizations, satellite image analysis, and marine product applications. The platform provides the most comprehensive and user-fr iendly access to marine data and tools.          Jiahn-horng Chen, President of the NAMR, shared his insights with the audience, stating, "The ocean speaks to us through its data, whether it ''s the rise and fall of wave heights, the speed of ocean currents, or the warmth and coolness of seawater temperatures. Data is the pathway to understanding the ocean and addressin g its challenges. " Principal Wen-yi Cheng of Kaohsiung Girls '' Senior High School and Principal You-ling Hong of Taichung Girls '' Senior High School emphasized the strong connection between the competition and high school geography and earth science curricula. They expressed excitement about the comprehensi ve marine database available through NODASS and looked forward to teachers and students engaging with it to enhance their learning journeys. Cheng-chieh Chang, Director of the Taiw an Marine Education Center, highlighted that marine education should go beyond the transfer of knowledge, emphasizing that it is an exploratory and practical process. He noted that the competition allows students to transform theoretical knowledge into actionable insights through inquiry and hands-on projects, fostering a deeper connection to marine science and its real-world applications.

The South China Sea is a critical maritime hub and serves as a key juncture for global shipping routes. Under the government ''s New Southbound Policy, Taiwan has actively engaged with neighboring countries in the region, pursuing collaboration in areas such as disaster prevention and management, fisherie s patrols, humanitarian assistance, and international scientific research. Despite the presence of the South China Sea Humanitarian Assistance Center and a logistics supply base in the region, Taiwan ''s scientific surveys of the South China Sea remain limited. To address this, Jiahn-horng Chen, President of the National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR), announced that NAMR is launching an ambitious South China Sea survey initiative. These efforts aim to enhance Taiwan ''s understanding of the region through comprehensive data collection and research, expanding the nation ''s capacity for marine science and international cooperation. The data will also be applied to smart disaster management, humanitarian aid, and other critical areas. Therefore, NAM R is actively launching survey projects in the South China Sea. Through comprehensive marine data collection and research, the initiative aims to enhance Taiwan ''s understanding of the South China Sea. This effort not only expands Taiwan ''s capacity for marine scientific research and international collaboration but also facilitates the application of collected data to areas such as smart disaster prevention and hum anitarian assistance. NAMR has adopted a multidisciplinary approach for its current South China Sea survey mission, integrating terrestrial and marine scientific methodologies. Thi s comprehensive investigation aims to achieve a holistic understanding of the unique characteristics of the surrounding marine environment in the South China Sea. NAMR has long maintained Taiwan ''s marine environmental monitoring systems, not only for scientific research but also to support disaster prevention and humanitarian relief efforts. However, Taiwan ''s current fleet of large research vessels is insufficient to meet these demands. Minister Kuan Bi-ling of the Ocean Affairs Council stated that while NAMR continues to conduct com prehensive surveys of Taiwan ''s marine territories to meet observational needs, the OAC is also actively planning the establishment of a dedicated research vessel fleet to enhance the nation ''s marine survey capabilities. It is hoped that the research vessel fleet currently being planned and developed by the NAMR will become a critical asset for Taiwan ''s marine surveys. This fleet is expected to significantly enhance the nation ''s ability to accumulate and deepen research outcomes, enabling Taiwan to make more substantial contributions to various international marine-related public issues.

Today (8th), Premier Chen Chien-jen visited Keelung to inspect the Dawulun Buoy Monitoring Station and the Real-Time UAV Imaging System for Marine Safety. He was accompanied by Kua n Bi-ling, Minister of the Ocean Affairs Council (OAC), as well as NAMR President Chen Jiahn-horng and Liao De-sheng , Director of the Northern Branch of the Coast Guard Administra tion (CGA). Since 2020, the OAC has promoted the "Tribute to the Ocean " policy. In line with this initiative, the National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR) established the "GoOcean " Marine Recreation Risk Information Platform, which provides environmental data and skill-level recommendations for recreational activities in four pilot marine areas: Keelung, Yi lan, Hengchun, and Penghu. This platform has cultivated public awareness of individual responsibility, with the GoOcean website receiving 930,000 user inquiries to date. Premier Chen emphasized the critical importance of automated marine monitoring technologies for assessing national marine recreation risks. Through the deployment of marine buoys and anchored subsurface moorings, along with plans to introduce advanced systems such as autonomous vehicles, real-time changes in marine environments can be effectively tracked. T hese systems enhance maritime safety, support predictive decision-making in rescue operations, and translate complex marine data into user-friendly real-time risk indicators, such as a "red-green light " system, to promote transparent, open, and safe recreational activities at sea. Premier Chen expressed his gratitude to the OAC and NAMR for their ongoing marine scientific resear ch and surveys, which provide accessible information to the public, enabling familiarity with, proximity to, and safe use of marine resources. These efforts also benefit related go vernment agencies, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and National Science and Technology Council, supporting the collective development of a sustainable and healthy marine nation. Minister Kuan Bi-ling reaffirmed the OAC ''s commitment to the "Three Securities " —National Security, Public Security, and Safety. To ensure marine safety, NAMR has developed systems such as buoy networks and shore-based radar. Keelung has been designated as the pilot site for these initiatives, with plans to establish Tainan ''s Anping Coast as a base for conducting demonstration projects related to marine recreation safety. These efforts aim to build a modernized marine safety network for future genera tions, incorporating advanced technological applications to enhance the nation ''s marine security capabilities. Additionally, to support Coast Guard personnel in their missions, the CGA pioneered the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), becoming the first domestic agency to do so. From 2018 to 2019, 20 rotary-wing UAVs were deployed for missions such as security patrols, search and rescue operations, and environmental monitoring. In 2023 alone, UAVs were deployed in 185 missions, including 82 security patrols, 33 search and rescue operations, 13 environmental monitoring tasks, and 57 special projects. Premier Chen also attended a briefing by NAMR President Jiahn-horng Chen on the "Tribute to the Ocean: Marine Recreation Safety Monitoring and Information System " and conducted an on-site inspection of the related equipment. The Premier commended the OAC and NAMR for the "National Marine Safety and Sustainability Plan, " which integrates technologies such as marine environmental monitoring and recreation risk assessment to implement national policies that ensure transparent, open, safe, and secur e recreational activities at sea.

In the face of climate change, global warming, energy transitions, and net-zero carbon policies, marine scientists worldwide emphasize the need for greater integration and internat ional collaboration in ocean research to address the challenges ahead. As the National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR) marks its 5th anniversary, it aligned with the United Natio ns '' ocean vision goals by hosting the inaugural International Vision Marine Conference on April 23 –24 at the Garden Villa Hotel in Kaohsiung City. The event brought together 250 experts and scholars from 10 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Can ada, Sweden, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Taiwan. Over 150 interdisciplinary marine research findings focusing on solutions to global ocean challenges were pr esented. The keynote speakers included Dr. Mike Spranger, Professor Emeritus from the University of Florida with 35 years of experience in the Sea Grant program, and Dr. Shin ''ichi Kuramoto, Executive Director of the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC). They shared insights into ocean research efforts in the United States and Japan and their societal impacts, highlighting mechanisms for global collaboration and practical applications in marine science. The conference featured 20 breakout forums that explored a diverse range of topics, including ocean hydrology and modeling, marine biodiversity, remote sensing, marine geological exploration, marine ecology, ocean energy, marine biogeochemistry, and marine biotechnology. Other areas of focus included the applications of big data in marine research, environm ental change, underwater archaeology, ocean literacy, marine policy and education, ship model testing and development, ocean culture, and various cross-disciplinary ocean topics. N AMR researchers actively participated in these forums, presenting their findings and engaging with international scholars in dynamic exchanges. The event also included a student po ster competition to encourage young talent to pursue ocean research. This initiative symbolizes a commitment to fostering the next generation of marine scientists and underscores t he spirit of ocean heritage and sustainable development. The event also showcased the research achievements of the NAMR since its establishment, highlighting its pivotal role in advancing marine science. Key accomplishments included the development of research vessels to facilitate comprehensive baseline surveys of Taiwan ''s waters and the creation of the National Ocean Database and Sharing System (NODASS), enabling marine experts to propose data-driven solutions for ocean-related challenges. NAMR h as also established a Marine Recreation Risk Information Platform to minimize risks associated with marine recreational activities, developed technologies for Kuroshio Current powe r generation to promote green energy transition, and set up a National Ship Model Laboratory and national ship testing team to modernize Taiwan ''s shipbuilding industry. Further achievements included constructing an eDNA database to explore the relationship between marine life and environmental changes, establishing the Ta iping Island research station in the Spratly Islands to enhance South China Sea studies, and investigating coastal toponyms and settlements to promote sustainable development of co astal culture and history. NAMR also introduced international ocean literacy education materials to enhance public understanding of marine issues. In her opening remarks, Wen-ling Hong, Deputy Minister of the Ocean Affairs Council, stated that the founding of NAMR was driven by the principle, "We need science, and we want the ocean. " Over the past five years since establishment, NAMR has served as a pioneer, collaborating with global scholars to integrate marine research and providing scientific foundations f or ocean policies developed by the Ocean Affairs Council. The Vision Marine Conference reflected global trends in marine research, emphasizing the societal impact of scientific ach ievements and aligning with the Barcelona Declaration ''s call for increased global investment in ocean science. As a member of the international marine community, Taiwan is fully prepared to meet the challenges of building a sustainab le ocean future.  

The National Academy of Marine Research (NAMR) has launched the "Comprehensive Environmental DNA Dataset for Marine Baseline Ecological Surveys " which is now available on the National Ocean Database And Sharing System (NODASS). This achievement marks a milestone in Taiwan ''s marine research domain. Leveraging environmental DNA (eDNA) technology, NAMR successfully collected marine environmental DNA information from over 100 sampling stations across T aiwan ''s marine territories. The dataset encompasses the species composition of three major biological groups: microorganisms, eukaryotes, and fish. Environmental DNA (eDNA) refers to genetic material left by organisms in their environment whose sources include naturally shed skin cells or scales. This innovative technology en ables scientists to extract genetic sequences from a single cup of seawater, capturing the DNA of organisms ranging from microorganisms to large marine animals, including elusive s pecies, without significantly disturbing their natural habitat. This approach helps scientists explore marine species richness, diversity, and distribution. It is particularly usef ul for tracking invasive species and monitoring biodiversity, facilitating more effective management and conservation of marine resources. NAMR has released the "Comprehensive Environmental DNA Dataset for Marine Baseline Ecological Surveys " on the NODASS platform. This dataset allows users to carry out searches based on parameters such as survey location, time, project name, and species name using an interactive geo spatial map, serving as an invaluable resource for researchers in marine biodiversity and interested members of the public. In addition to the dataset, NAMR provides advanced tools and information, including historical eDNA survey results, species composition visualizations, and sequence alignment func tionalities. Researcher Kang-ning Shen from the Marine Ecology and Conservation Research Center of NAMR stated that the "Taiwan Fish 12S Sequence Database " now includes 2,584 fish species. Scholars interested in marine biodiversity can use the eDNA search platform for sequence alignment and download individual 12S sequences for spec ific fish species. Since 2023, Assistant Research Fellow Yi-hsuan Chen and her team from the Marine Ecology and Conservation Research Center have been conducting the "Marine Environmental DNA Information Collection Project. " This dataset will continue to be updated, offering more comprehensive information for environmental DNA surveys across Taiwan ''s marine territories. NAMR President Jiahn-horng Chen stated that the comprehensive marine baseline surveys conducted from 2023 to 2026 include hydrological studies, seafloor topography analysis, and e cological surveys. All of these valuable marine datasets are being integrated into the NODASS platform to create a robust foundation for advanced marine science applications. This initiative aligns with Taiwan ''s long-term policy for comprehensive, practical, and open government data.