NTM launches exhibition on Penghu islands

2014-08-21

An exhibition showcasing the rugged beauty of 13 islands south of Penghu County was launched Aug. 18 by National Taiwan Museum in Taipei City.

Featuring interactive displays, multimedia presentations and photographs, the exhibition allows visitors to experience the islands’ basalt landscape and undersea ecology. It also depicts cultural assets such as traditional Fujian-style architecture, as well as the religious beliefs of the locals.

“As the first museum focused on natural history in Taiwan, we are honored to celebrate the diverse ecosystem of Penghu,” NTM Director Chen Chi-ming said at the opening ceremony.

“This event will enhance public understanding of the islands and boost awareness of the importance of preserving Penghu’s cultural and environmental heritage.”

The exhibition includes the islands of Dongji, Dongyuping, Xiji and Xiyuping. All four are part of Taiwan’s ninth national park inaugurated June 8 by the Ministry of the Interior.

Consisting mainly of ocean basalts, the region boasts a rich array of geological features such as littoral caves, sea cliffs and wave-cut platforms. It also contains an abundance of fossilized sea shells in sandstone outcroppings.

An equally prominent feature is the area’s diverse marine ecosystem. The surrounding waters are rich in algae, benthos and corals, providing a bountiful hunting ground for migratory birds such as black-naped, bridled and greater crested terns.

The exhibition, which wraps up March 1, 2015, also highlights endangered species listed for protection, as well as endemic animals and plants of the islands.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=220823&CtNode=413)