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The
shallow low-tide lagoon, consisting of fine sands, supports a rich
marine flora, estimated at 28 species of seaweeds and 7 species of
seagrasses. The red algae, Congracilaria babae, was recorded for the
first time in Singapore. All four native species of Halophila (seagrass)
can be found, including the rare and tiny Halophila beccarrii. The
seagrass bed is extensive and supports an astonishing diversity of
marine fauna not commonly found elsewhere in Singapore.
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| These include
various species of Carpet Anemones, Sea Stars,
Sand Dollars and Sea Cucumbers. 3 exciting fishes have also been discovered
by staff of Raffles Museum of Bio-diversity Research – a new record
of a Threadfin Shad, a rarely collected Spotted Pipefish, and probably
an undescribed new species of a Blue-spotted Goby. Rare and multi-colored
sponges abound on the degrading coral flat. This living collection
is indeed a potentially valuable asset for our bio-medical research
communities in Singapore. Toxins derived from sponges are considered
as having potential for aids and cancer research throughout the world.
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A
species of otter has recorded at Chek Jawa by the National Parks staff
managing Pulau Ubin, while Pied Hornbills and the native Red Jungle
Fowls are commonly sighted by visitors in the coastal forest. Many
rare coastal trees, such as the previously extinct Seashore Nutmeg
(Knema globularia) and Seashore Mangosteen (Garcinia hombroniana),
grow on the sandy beach. A recently recorded species in Singapore,
Pouteria linggensis (Chiku Family), has also been found in Chek Jawa.
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| A
two-day guided visit at Chek Jawa October saw what may possibly be
a record turnout for a public education walk in Singapore. Conservative
estimates suggest that there were 250 people on Friday and 630 on
Saturday. Chek Jawa has indeed won the hearts of many. |
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some, it is a giant touch pool, a playground, and a poet’s corner.
For others, Chek Jawa is a natural wonder with huge potential for
education and research. There is also the recreation and tourism potential.
It is a pity that such a wonder of nature may soon be lost. If there
is any way in which Chek Jawa can be conserved for the enjoyment of
future generations of Singaporeans, then every attempt should be made
to explore this possibility. We may be judged harshly by future generations
of Singaporeans if we fail to do so. (See House
no.1) |
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