Due to rapid population growth, industrialization and encroachment on the environment, the extinction rate of existing species is at a thousand times increased since the last extinction event. Seventy five percent of world fisheries are overexploited or significantly depleted. This study aims to increase public knowledge on those endangered fishes and cetaceans in Taiwan and raise awareness, by producing a series of mermaid illustration.

Unlike most conservation advertising, the series set the tone to be beautiful and elegant, using “mermaid” as a storyteller to catch the audience's attention and curiosity. First, the half-human, half-fish image of mermaid represents the symbiosis and balance of human and nature. Secondly, using this personification to encourage empathy for fishes and cetaceans. Lastly, if we don't cherish these precious species now, they might be another “legend” in the nearly future.

Based on art potential, endangered level and endemic species, this study selects ten different animals to develop into illustration, including eight fishes (Long-fin Chub, Formosan Trout, Taitung Sucker Loach, etc.) and 2 cetaceans (Whale Shark and Sousa Chinensis). The character design of the mermaids is based on their habitat and the ethnic groups corresponded in Taiwan (Hoklo, Hakka, Atayal, Puyuma, etc.).

The outcome of this study is a series of painting with a complete collection of ten mermaid illustrations and ten biological illustrations, released via social media and open house exhibition. Moreover, two extra pieces (Oryzias Latipes and Raffle's Butterflyfish) were specially made for the "Taiwan Encyclopedia of Life" website. In conclusion, the study succeeds to combine both biological and cultural side of Taiwan, by integrating information across disciplines with an art perspective and solution. It highlights the unique value of biodiversity and a multi-ethnic society in Taiwan, with a great potential to develop more characters and storyline in the future.