Detail

There are species in our seas that require special attention and protection. These include species endemic to Korea, those whose populations are rapidly declining, or species recognized internationally for their academic or economic value. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries designates these species as Marine Protected Species under relevant legislation and manages them systematically. In principle, these species are strictly prohibited from being captured or collected without a valid reason. To date, a total of 91 species have been designated as Marine Protected Species, including 21 mammals, 36 invertebrates, 7 marine algae (including seagrasses), 5 reptiles, 6 fish, and 16 birds. This stamp series highlights four invertebrate species among the Marine Protected Species. The Myriopathes lata, Antipathes dubia, Antipathes densa, and Myriopathes japonica. Myriopathes lata is a type of coral found in the seas around Korea and Japan. In Korea, it is mainly observed around Jeju Island, as well as near certain southern and western coastal islands. As its name suggests (its Korean name is `long branch coral`), its branches are longer than those of Myriopathes japonica, and its overall shape resembles a pine tree. It was designated as a Natural Monument in March 2005, acknowledging its ecological value. Antipathes dubia is primarily distributed in the seas around Japan and the South Pacific. In Korea, it is a rare species found only around Munseom Island near Jeju. It resembles a rounded fan, with countless branches and twigs forming a mesh-like structure. Its trunk and branches are light brown, and the entire organism grows to about 40cm in height. Antipathes densa is a coral species widely distributed in Japan, eastern Australia, northern New Zealand, and the South Pacific. It was initially discovered only around Munseom Island in Korea, but has since been observed more frequently in other areas. As its name suggests (its Korean name is `broom coral`), its colony resembles a broom, with long, slender branches that are soft and flexible. Myriopathes japonica is found in the waters of Japan, Taiwan, and Australia. In Korea, it naturally grows on rocky reefs at depths of 20 to 50 meters, from the southern coast of Jeju to the eastern part of the South Sea. It was registered as a Natural Monument in March 2005 and later designated as a Class II Endangered Wild Species in 2012, affording it further protection. Marine Protected Species are more than just organisms in need of protection. They play a vital role in maintaining the health and biodiversity of marine ecosystems. Continued attention and protection are essential to ensure these precious lives thrive in our seas for generations to come.