New research shows Reef marine sanctuaries a huge success
29 Aug 2006
Fish numbers in the Great Barrier Reef's marine sanctuaries have increased rapidly since the Reef zoning plan was implemented, according to a new scientific study.
Scientists have been pleasantly surprised at the recovery rates of reef fish since the Great Barrier Reef zoning plan was implemented in 2004.
The study, by experts from the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and James Cook University (JCU), has revealed populations of important fish species in marine sanctuaries such as coral trout are now up to 60 per cent more abundant.
The results of this study, part of a program monitoring the health of the Great Barrier Reef for more than a decade, demonstrates what scientists and conservationists having been saying for years - creating marine sanctuaries means fish can mature and populations can recover.
"What is truly exciting about this research is that not only are the protected areas flourishing but there is very likely to be a spillover effect to surrounding areas which will benefit the whole ecosystem," said Richard Leck, WWF Australia marine and coastal policy officer.
"This powerful research clearly shows that the zoning plan, with its network of marine sanctuaries, is vital to ensuring the sustainable future of the Reef.
"It is great news for the overwhelming majority of Australians, including WWF Australia supporters, whose commitment to increased protection of the Great Barrier Reef has resulted in a very positive conservation win," Mr Leck said.
The AIMS research surveyed declared marine sanctuaries on 25 reefs and a further 25 reefs which remain open to fishing between Cairns and Gladstone. Before the marine park's rezoning, the abundance of species like coral trout was the same on all surveyed reefs. The coral trout is now up to 50 per cent more abundant in the marine sanctuaries than on reefs still open to fishing.
The JCU research on the fringing reefs of the Whitsunday Islands was even more encouraging. Their results showed coral trout and stripy sea perch abundance was 60 per cent higher in marine sanctuaries.
"The results of this research add to the increasing data from Australia and around the world proving highly protected areas boost fish stocks and conserve marine biodiversity.
"WWF expects these benefits will be foremost in the minds of Australian Government planners as they embark on the next phase of establishing a national network of marine protected areas," Mr Leck said.
Find out more
Charlie Stevens, Press Officer, WWF-Australia
Phone: 02 8202 1274
Mobile: 0424 649 689
Email: cstevens@wwf.org.au
Richard Leck, National Marine and Coastal Policy Officer, WWF-Australia
Phone: 07 3839 2849
Mobile: 0439 814 847
Email: rleck@wwf.org.au
