Evans, Shaun, Smith, Tim, Barrett, David, Carter, Alexandra, Collier, Catherine, Groom, Rachel, Lawrence, Emma, and Verrier, Frances (2024) Diverse fish communities across Marra Sea Country. In: [Presented at the AMSA-NZMSS 2024]. 416. From: AMSA-NZMSS 2024, 15-20 September 2024, Hobart, TAS, Australia.

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Abstract

Marine habitats of the southern Gulf of Carpentaria are ecologically and culturally significant, supporting traditional, commercial, and recreational fisheries. It is crucial to manage these areas to maintain ecosystem health and continue cultural connection. Recent large-scale habitat surveys of Marra Sea Country (including the Limmen Marine Park (Commonwealth) and Limmen Bight Marine Park (NT)), mapped diverse marine habitats, including seagrass, algae, coral and sponge gardens. However, there is limited Western knowledge of the demersal fish communities these habitats support. A survey of demersal fish communities across Marra Sea Country was developed and undertaken among li-Anthawirriyarra rangers, researchers and park managers using baited remote underwater videos (BRUVS). A total of 108 BRUVS were deployed using a spatially balanced survey design to assess fish species and abundances across the range of habitats. Diverse species were recorded including sharks, rays and commercially important Lutjanids and Lethrinids. Understanding the location, extent, and connectivity of fish communities empowers Traditional Owners in their decision-making and can provide a both-ways knowledge approach to improved management practice in Sea Country.

Item ID:	88749
Item Type:	Conference Item (Abstract / Summary)
Related URLs:	Organisation
Date Deposited:	08 Sep 2025 04:08
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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