The seawater around Huoshao Isle was of high quality and hosts a variety of endangered marine species. Moreover, marine transport around the isle was convenient, enabling the rapid rescue and treatment of injured animals, said an official from the Fishery Administration Section of Xiamen City.

The official went on to explain that the number of tourists to the Huoshao Isle was raising because of its science popularization amenities, and the location of the center would help spread knowledge about environmental protection.

The official said designs for a two-storey establishment covering an area of 870 square meters had been approved by planning departments. It will cost 8.73 million yuan (US$1.05 million) and would be ready for service by early next year.

Chinese white dolphins, also known as Indo-Pacific hump-backed dolphins, or "the pandas of the sea" on the Chinese mainland, are found in the shallow, coastal waters of southern China. They feed on fish, shrimp, and cuttlefish.

The dolphins are under top state protection as their population is estimated at no more than 1,000 and is declining as fewer dolphins survive long enough to reproduce.

(Xinhua News Agency March 3, 2003)