Han River-Bamseom Islets. 21/06/12; Seoul; 27 ha; 37°32'21"N 126°55'41"E. A pair of sandy islets of similar size located in the Han River in central Seoul, the only remaining naturally occurring riverine islands in the Han River ecosystem that have not been altered by human settlement. The waters around the islets provide a spawning and nursery ground for a number of Korean indigenous fish species, including the Korean striped bitterling (Acheilognathus yamatsutae), the Korean spined bitterling (Acanthorhodeus gracilis), and the Korean oily shiner (Sarcocheilichthys nigripinnus morii). The site is a centrally located urban wetland that provides a wintering habitat for many common waterfowls, whilst in the summer it provides a breeding ground for a number of species such as Spot-billed Ducks (Anas poecilorhyncha) and the Black-crowned Night Herons (Nycticorax nycticorax). Invasive species such as Red-eared Sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans), hops (Humulus scandens), ragweeds (Ambrosia trifida fo. Integrifolia (Muhl.) Fernald), and one-seeded bur-cucumber (Sicyos angulatus) are seen as potential threats. The islets are protected as an 'Ecosystem and Landscape Region for Conservation' under city legislation. Ramsar Site no. 2050. Most recent RIS information: 2012