Forsman, Sofia, Collier, Catherine, Carter, Alexandra, Groom, Rachel, Barrett, David, Barrett, Emma, Evans, Shaun, Verrier, Frances, Settli, Embla Jarulf, Whitman, Kirsty, and Smith, Tim (2025) Mapping fish assemblages and benthic habitats in Marra Sea Country: Implications for marine spatial planning in the Gulf of Carpentaria. In: [Presented at the Australian Society for Fish Biology Conference 2025]. 122629. From: ASFB 2025: Australian Society for Fish Biology Conference 2025, 18-21 August 2025, Darwin, NT, Australia.

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Abstract

Marra Sea Country in the southwestern Gulf of Carpentaria includes diverse ecosystems that are ecologically, economically, and culturally significant, yet understudied. The Limmen Bight Marine Park (Northern Territory) and Limmen Marine Park (Commonwealth) overlap Marra Sea Country and aim to protect ecosystems and culturally significant areas and sustainably manage fishing and tourism. Research and monitoring partnerships that identify changes in habitats and biodiversity are crucial to achieving these goals. li-Anthawirriyarra Rangers, JCU and CDU researchers, NT Parks, and Parks Australia have partnered to map Marra Sea Country’s marine habitats and fish communities. Baited remote underwater video stations (BRUVs) captured diverse and distinct fish communities associated with habitats including seagrass, soft coral, and bare sediment inside and outside the marine parks. Species richness was greatest in seagrass and soft coral habitats. Seascape connectivity impacts fish community dynamics and ontogenetic shifts between habitats. This interagency partnership is producing vital spatial data that will inform Sea Country planning and management of these important ecosystems by supporting Traditional Owners and governments in making evidence-based decisions to protect cultural and ecological values. By combining Indigenous and scientific knowledge, this partnership strengthens collaborative management of Marra Sea Country.

Item ID:	87686
Item Type:	Conference Item (Abstract / Summary)
Related URLs:	Organisation
Date Deposited:	08 Sep 2025 01:02
FoR Codes:	31 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES > 3103 Ecology > 310305 Marine and estuarine ecology (incl. marine ichthyology) @ 50% 41 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES > 4104 Environmental management > 410401 Conservation and biodiversity @ 50%
SEO Codes:	18 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT > 1802 Coastal and estuarine systems and management > 180299 Coastal and estuarine systems and management not elsewhere classified @ 100%
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