Conservation and fisheries biology
Sound knowledge on the distributions, biology and habitat use of populations of key species is essential for effective management in the marine environment, whether we are dealing with fisheries, megafauna or major primary producers.
Within this theme, CMER research focuses on several key economic or iconic species, as well as habitats and keystone species. We are examining the population structure seagrasses and economically important fish. In the case of fish, we examine the role of marine protected areas as a tool for fisheries management and for the maintenance of biodiversity. We have also been identifying key dugong habitats in order to help managers assess potential impacts or competition for resources between dugongs and humans. Other research addresses the population structure of fur seals and sea lions and the habitat use of the Black Swan.
Projects
- Abundance and habitat use of the Black Swan in the Lower Swan River Estuary
- The effects of western rock lobster, Panuliris cygnus, on benthic, shallow water assemblages
- Species diversity in the seagrass genus, Posidonia
- Catch rates and behaviour of the fishing charter industry
- Population estimates and movement patterns of marine mammals (Dugong and seals)
- Spatial modeling of fisheries catches
- Fish biology and ecology in area closure planning
Past projects
- Population management and genetic structure of the humback whale Megaptera novaeangliae in Western Australia
- Population biology and management of the sandbar shark Carcharhinus plumbeus
- Habitat use, movements and trophic linkages of the western rock lobster
- Movement patterns and habitat use by Dugongs in Shark Bay