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Determining the spatial distribution and abundance indices for Moreton Bay Bugs, Thenus parindicus and Thenus australiensis in Queensland to improve stock assessment and management

Project number: 2020-020
Project Status:
Completed
Budget expenditure: $596,710.00
Principal Investigator: Matthew McMillan
Organisation: Department of Primary Industries (QLD)
Project start/end date: 31 Aug 2020 - 30 Mar 2023
Contact:
FRDC
TAGS
Wild Catch
Survey
Stock Assessment
Rac Qld
Fishing Gear
SPECIES
Bugs

Need

Moreton Bay bugs (Scyllarid lobsters) are a commercially important fished resource in northern Australian coastal waters. About 600 tonnes of bugs is reported in logbooks annually, valued at about $15 million (~$25/kg) nationally. About 90% of the catch is taken in the Queensland east coast otter trawl fishery (QECOTF) (https://www.fish.gov.au/report/154-MORETON-BAY-BUGS-2018).

Historically, Moreton Bay bugs were retained as byproduct of prawn and scallop trawling, but over time their popularity and price have increased and they have become increasingly targeted by fishers. In recent years in the Queensland scallop fishery, the scallop catch has declined and fishers have targeted bugs to such an extent that their catch value now exceeds that of the scallops.

Quantifying the fishing effort targeted at bugs and differentiating it from the prawn and scallop effort is challenging. This complicates the estimation of reliable catch rate time series that can be used as an index of abundance for each group (i.e. bugs, prawns, scallops).

Despite their high value, Queensland has not previously undertaken a stock assessment of Moreton Bay Bugs, beyond yield-per-recruit analyses. This is largely because the Bug catch is composed of two species, reef bugs (Thenus australiensis) and mud bugs (Thenus parindicus) which are not differentiated by fishers in the logbook data. Mud bugs are the smaller of the two species and generally occur in depths of 10–30 m, while the larger reef bug generally occurs in depths of 30–60 m. Although there is some spatial separation of the species it is not possible to breakdown the catch of each from the logbook data alone.

This project aims to examine and define the spatial distribution of the two bug species. By surveying and sampling bugs, and examining seafloor properties, we hope to predict and map the distribution of each species. Once clear distinctions are made, we plan to use all available data on catch rates and gear technology used by the fleet, to derive standardised catch rate time series for each species, which can be used as indices of abundance for improved management and assessment.

Objectives

1. Implement a state-wide crew member program to obtain detailed photographic records of Moreton Bay bug catches, to assist with determining the species composition and distribution of catches.
2. Undertake a stratified survey of bug catch rates, species composition and seafloor properties in the main trawl fishing grounds off Townsville.
3. Use all available data sources to model, predict and map the spatial distribution of the two species of Moreton Bay bugs along the Queensland coast.
4. Produce long-term standardised catch rates for each bug species that can be used as an index of abundance for stock assessment and management.

Final report

ISBN: 978-0-6456352-1-8
Authors: McMillan M.N Leahy S.M. Daniell J. Louw N. Roberts E.M. Wickens M. Hillcoat K. O’Neill M.F
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Project products

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf
Final Report • 9.51 MB
2020-020-DLD.pdf

Summary

We report on the first comprehensive investigation into the spatial distribution of Moreton Bay Bugs within the Queensland East Coast Otter Trawl Fishery. This research was a collaboration between the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and James Cook University, applying interdisciplinary approaches to successfully model habitat preferences of the two Moreton Bay Bug species and map their distributions along Queensland’s east coast. Historic catch records were then split according to each species’ spatial distribution. From these records, standardised catch rates were produced as indices of abundance for each species for use in future stock assessments of the Moreton Bay Bug fishery.

Paper • 8.09 MB
2020-020-Louw et al 2024 FISHRES.pdf
Paper • 1.38 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024 RFBF.pdf
Paper • 1.72 MB
2020-020-McMillan et al 2024_HYDROBIO.pdf

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Investigation of the direct and indirect role of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) on Western Rock Lobster settlement processes: with consideration of the potential role of contaminants

Project number: 2019-101
Project Status:
Current
Budget expenditure: $44,000.00
Principal Investigator: Tim J. Langlois
Organisation: University of Western Australia (UWA)
Project start/end date: 1 Jul 2020 - 1 Nov 2022
Contact:
FRDC
TAGS
Wild Catch
Threatened Endangered Protected Species
Stock Assessment
Stakeholder
Resource Access And Allocation
SPECIES
Western Rock Lobster

Need

In Western Australia, the positive and negative effects of SGD in marine benthic communities remains unknown. In Marmion Lagoon, SGD is known to supply up to 50% of the nutrients required for the macrophyte growth rates observed (Johannes and Hearn 1985). Freshwater input has been observed to positively impact seagrass germination (Xu et al., 2016), and although no similar studies exist for temperate seagrass species in the southern hemisphere, SGD may have a role in the creation, maintenance and augmentation of seagrass beds.
The direct influence of SGD on puerulus settlement rates is unknown but freshwater discharge has been shown to be positively correlated with crab larval abundance (Boylan and Wenner, 1993). An ongoing FRDC project (2016-260: Assess causes and implications of anomalous low lobster catch rates) has demonstrated post-puerulus western rock lobster exhibit a strong choice for the chemical signature of seagrass (Brooker et al. in prep). These findings suggest that SGD may affect puerulus settlement rates either directly through chemotaxis or indirectly by impacting the density of seagrass meadows. Hence, there is a need to investigate both the role of SGD and the presence of seagrass on puerulus settlement rates.
Land derived contaminants potentially impacting puerulus settlement and survival could include heavy metals and endocrine disrupting chemicals, such as flame-retardants or pesticides targeting insects (McKenney, 1999). Adult lobster have been shown to be repelled by the presence of copper (McLeese, 1975) and both flame-retardants (polybrominated diphenyl ethers - PBDEs) (Davies and Zou, 2012) and various insecticides (Ghekiere et al., 2005) have been shown to disrupt moulting in marine crustacea. Alkylphenol pollution was implicated in a major die-off of the American lobster (Homarus americanus) population that occurred in Long Island Sound in 1999, with acute impact on post-puerulus mortality during moulting (Laufer et al., 2013). There is a need to investigate both the occurrence and concentration of likely contaminants at potential source locations within the Western Rock Lobster fishery and assess their impact on post-puerulus survival.

Objectives

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.
2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.
3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).
4. Identify and map input of contaminants by SGD in key fishery areas.
5. Investigate impact of contaminants on the survival of puerulus and post-puerulus lobster.

Final report

Authors: Tim Langlois John Fitzhardinge Simon de Lestang Claude Spencer Stanley Mastrantonis and Anita Giraldo
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.

 
Final Report • 2025-02-21 • 3.83 MB
2019-101-DLD.pdf

Summary

The influence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion of Western Australia, and particularly its impact on the Western Rock Lobster (WRL) and the West Coast Rock Lobster Managed Fishery (WCRLMF), is poorly understood. This is despite that the region's unique oceanography and geological history, where the prevailing oceanography suppresses upwelling and there is limited nutrient input from the land, would predict that SGD could have a significant role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems. In addition, this region is reported to be drying and warming under the influence of climate change, and localised decreases in SGD have already been reported. Three linked objectives were originally proposed within this project:

 

1. Identify areas of significant submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) nearby established western rock lobster settlement monitoring sites.

2. Investigate the direct role of SGD on western rock lobster settlement rates.

3. Investigate the link between SGD and the extent and condition of important lobster habitat (e.g. seagrass).

 

To address the knowledge gaps surrounding SGD and inform further research, a workshop was convened in December 2020, bringing together experts from various disciplines. The workshop aimed to identify key research priorities and effective methodologies for studying SGD and its potential role in the productivity of coastal ecosystems.

 

The influence of SGD on coastal ecosystems of the West Coast Bioregion are poorly understood. After the expert workshop, the project identified that the initial objectives proposed were not achievable and used the outputs of that workshop and pilot studies, to evaluate potential field methods, and recommend that future studies should instead focus on detailed characterisation of SGD within locations of interest. The proposed multi-sensor sampling approach and survey design provided here, would provide a robust basis for any future investigation of the role of SGD on WRL ecology and any implications for the WCRLMF.