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Researchers create biomimetic manta ray to help protect coral reef

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      China

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      Researchers create biomimetic manta ray to help protect coral reef

      2024-09-15 16:40 Last Updated At:09-16 00:27

      A group of young scientists in China are developing an innovative solution to monitor and protect fragile coral reef ecosystems - a biomimetic robot designed to mimic a manta ray.

      About 70 percent of Earth's surface is covered by oceans. Coral reefs, often called "underwater tropical rainforests," are crucial to marine ecosystems in maintaining ecological balance, but they face numerous threats.

      Traditional methods of observation using propeller-driven underwater vehicles can potentially damage these delicate environments, the developer of the bionic fish robot told China Global Television Network (CGTN).

      The biomimetic manta ray project represents a promising intersection of robotics, marine biology, and conservation efforts. By leveraging biomimetic technology, researchers hope to provide a less invasive method for studying and protecting coral reefs.

      "Coral reefs are fragile and sensitive. The way we observe and protect coral reefs is very important. If we use a traditional propeller-driven underwater vehicle to observe them, it can significantly impact or even damage the coral reefs and the coral reef ecosystem," said Qu Yilin, a postdoctoral researcher at Northwestern Polytechnical University.

      The team chose to model their robot after a manta ray due to its superior maneuverability in water.

      "In developing this biomimetic fish, we studied many different species. Each has its distinctive features. A manta ray can swim forwards and backwards, execute tight turns, dive, and even perform backflips. Overall, with its stability and flexibility, it was the best of all the subjects we studied," Qu said.

      Analyzing the problems of biomimetic submersibles required Qu and his team to create a new theoretical framework.

      Despite these challenges, Qu and his team are optimistic about their work, as they are fortunate to be living in an era with such excellent research tools, and so many new directions for the research.

      Although coral reefs make up less than one percent of the ocean floor, they support about 25 percent of all marine species.

      Researchers create biomimetic manta ray to help protect coral reef

      Researchers create biomimetic manta ray to help protect coral reef

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      Chinese diplomatic missions hold celebrations for Spring Festival

      2025-01-20 19:44 Last Updated At:20:07

      Chinese embassies and consulates in various countries have organized vibrant receptions to celebrate the upcoming Chinese Lunar New Year, offering festive activities and cultural performances that showcase the richness of Chinese traditions.

      The Spring Festival centers around the Chinese New Year, which this year lands on Jan 29, ushering in the Year of the Snake.

      The Chinese Embassy in Iran celebrated the occasion with an immersive cultural event featuring traditional crafts like paper-cutting and hands-on culinary experiences, such as dumpling making and tasting sweet "Tangyuan," - a ball-shaped glutinous rice dessert symbolizing family reunion during the Lunar New Year.

      A promotional video showcasing the upcoming 2025 Spring Festival Gala produced by the China Media Group (CMG) was also screened at the gathering.

      First broadcast back in 1983, the hours-long television extravaganza is seen as a major cultural symbol for the traditional Spring Festival celebrations in China. Aired on the eve of the Chinese New Year, the Spring Festival Gala has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world's most-watched annual TV program.

      The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan hosted a Spring Festival-themed fair that attracted over 500 attendees, including Pakistani dignitaries, overseas Chinese, representatives from Chinese-funded institutions.

      In addition to a lively lineup of performances, the fair featured over 20 booths where attendees could experience Chinese calligraphy, traditional cuisine, Chinese medicine consultations, and tea art.

      The Chinese Embassy in Hungary also held a event where Chinese Lunar New Year wishes from the motherland were extended to the overseas Chinese community there.

      The Chinese Consulate General in Frankfurt, Germany, prepared special Spring Festival gift packages for overseas Chinese. Students studying in Germany sang heartfelt songs to celebrate the festival with their fellow compatriots.

      A lively dragon dance and elegant classical Chinese dance performances were staged at a reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Sao Tome and Principe, spicing up the festive atmosphere.

      Chinese diplomatic missions hold celebrations for Spring Festival

      Chinese diplomatic missions hold celebrations for Spring Festival

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