[2] Shanghai's universities have studied Jiuduansha since the 1990s and, in 1995, introduced cordgrass in order to speed the shoal's stabilization,[7] particularly in light of roughly 71% reduction in sedimentation caused by the many dams erected along the course of the Yangtze during the 20th century.

[5] In the time since its introduction, the cordgrass has been found to have become invasive,[5] aggressively crowding out the native reeds and bulrushes[7][8] and degrading parts of the wetlands.

[5] A wetland museum, as well as a Science Popularization Park on about 5 square kilometers (1.9 sq mi) of the island, are planned to increase public awareness and support.

[5] Jiuduansha is the spawning ground for the hairy crab, one of the most important products of the Chinese fishing industry[10] and a delicacy of the cuisine of Shanghai and eastern China.

[4] All 14 observed species of aquatic mammals are protected and Jiuduansha is thought to be the most important habitat in China for the finless porpoise, the bottlenose dolphin, and the spotted seal.