Silangang Ligaw Reef

Zhongzhou Reef (also known as Ban Than Reef among other variants) (Chinese: 中洲礁; Chinese: 中洲礁; pinyin: Zhōngzhōu Jiāo; Filipino: Bahura ng Silangang Ligaw; Vietnamese: Bãi Bàn Than) is a small coral reef on the north edge of the Tizard Bank in the Spratly Islands, South China Sea under administration by the Republic of China (Taiwan). It lies 4.6 km (2.9 mi) east of Taiwan-administered Taiping Island (Itu Aba), 7.2 km (4.5 mi) west of Vietnam-administered Sand Cay, and has an exposed area of approximately 0.2 hectares (0.49 acres) during high tide, and 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres) during low tide. It consists of an accumulation of seashells, sand, coral reefs and debris which forms a circular coral reef plate, surrounding the reef under the water, with a diameter of approximately 1.3 km (0.8 mi). The reef is also claimed by the People's Republic of China, the Philippines, and Vietnam. As many as 51 species of migratory birds inhabit the reef for short stays. The surrounding waters contain a rich marine ecosystem with plentiful staghorn coral. Shellfish species such as Harpago chiragra and Cassis cornuta can be found on the reef, and the surrounding waters contain various common tropical fish and coral reef fish. The reef geology is not suitable for plant growth. The reef has no groundwater source. Though currently uninhabited by humans, the Taiwanese Coast Guard sends regular patrols via M8 speedboats from nearby Taiping Island. These patrols circle the reef, in addition to landing, making inspections and carrying out ecological surveys.

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