This project aims to assess the current condition of reef ecosystems in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, southeast Tasmania, and to identify the natural and human-driven factors influencing patterns in reef health. The Channel supports diverse and productive marine habitats, yet long-term environmental change and multiple local pressures have raised concerns about the resilience of these systems.
To address this knowledge gap, IMAS has partnered with the Pennicott Foundation to undertake an intensive, five-year monitoring program to assess the health of reef ecosystems in the Channel, to ensure their ongoing sustainability and functioning for future generations. This project will generate systematic observations across seasons and sites throughout the Channel, enabling scientists to evaluate spatial and temporal trends in reef condition.
Fieldwork will combine traditional survey techniques with emerging monitoring tools to measure the structure, composition and ecological function of reef communities.
Towed camera surveys used to assess nuisance algae cover throughout the Channel were undertaken in November last year and across May/June this year. These surveys allow us to look at how patterns in nuisance algae change over time across the region.
We are also undertaking diver-based surveys to look at the function and ecology at key sites throughout the Channel. We have set up monitoring stations at 18 sites by drilling bases into bedrock. At these sites, we have done RVA surveys on SCUBA, which characterise nutrient enrichment on reef ecosystems. RVA surveys will be completed every February and July/August. We will also use these sites to look at sedimentation on reefs and undertake biochemical analysis of seaweed tissue to better understand nutrient uptake.
To better understand the marine life that calls the Channel home, we are also examining biodiversity on reef systems. This involves a full underwater visual census of all marine life across 15 sites in the Channel. These surveys will be repeated annually for the life of the program.
Findings from these surveys will be integrated with long-term environmental datasets to better understand the physical and biological drivers underpinning changes in reef health. Throughout the project, monitoring methods will be developed and refined to effectively assess the environmental impacts of climate change and human activities on marine ecosystems within the Channel, and for application in other areas.
All findings will be made publicly available through reports, videos and interactive platforms such as Tasmania's Marine Atlas, ensuring transparency and supporting evidence-based management of this valued waterway.
By delivering a comprehensive baseline and ongoing assessment of reef condition in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, this project will contribute to improved understanding, stewardship and long-term protection of one of Tasmania’s most significant marine ecosystems.
This project is governed by a Steering Committee with representatives from IMAS, the Pennicott Foundation and NRE Tasmania.
