Dragon Head Rock Introduction
The geological layers of Orchid Island are primarily composed of hornblende andesite lava and basaltic agglomerate, along with Pleistocene red soil layers, uplifted coral reefs, and Holocene alluvial, colluvial layers, and coastal fringe reefs. The natural processes of coastal erosion and weathering have shaped Orchid Island's most fascinating rock formations. Longtou Rock, formed from an uplifted large coral reef, gradually took on its current appearance due to natural coastal erosion and weathering. The Tao people (also known as the Yami people) refer to Longtou Rock as ji-mazicing, meaning that the rock is sharp and irregular, forming a pockmarked cliff. The waters around Longtou Rock are an important and rich fishing ground for the people of Orchid Island, where local fishermen can often be seen fishing and angling. More Orchid Island travel tips.