Capture stress and post-capture survival of sharks and other chondrichthyans in fisheries bycatch. Australia is adopting ecosystem approaches to fisheries management. However, to embrace such an approach there is an urgent need for better information on the biology, ecology and population dynamics of sharks, rays and chimaeras (class Chondrichthyes). Chondrichthyan species are among the most sensitive in their response to the effects of fishing. Results from the present proposal will contribute ....Capture stress and post-capture survival of sharks and other chondrichthyans in fisheries bycatch. Australia is adopting ecosystem approaches to fisheries management. However, to embrace such an approach there is an urgent need for better information on the biology, ecology and population dynamics of sharks, rays and chimaeras (class Chondrichthyes). Chondrichthyan species are among the most sensitive in their response to the effects of fishing. Results from the present proposal will contribute to determining mortality of chondrichthyan bycatch species in response to the effects of capture in fishing gear, handling by fishers and discarding at sea. The work will contribute to biodiversity conservation and maintenance of ecosystem structure and function for present and future generations.Read moreRead less
Tracking squids from embryos to adults - novel approaches and new directions. Cutting edge acoustic tracking technology, combined with traditional tagging techniques and novel applications of trace element analysis, will allow for the life cycle of squid to be tracked through space and time - from embryonic stages through to spawning adults. Southern calamary earbones will be examined for evidence of elemental 'fingerprints' that reveal where they came from as hatchlings. This combined with trac ....Tracking squids from embryos to adults - novel approaches and new directions. Cutting edge acoustic tracking technology, combined with traditional tagging techniques and novel applications of trace element analysis, will allow for the life cycle of squid to be tracked through space and time - from embryonic stages through to spawning adults. Southern calamary earbones will be examined for evidence of elemental 'fingerprints' that reveal where they came from as hatchlings. This combined with tracking squid in Australia's biggest marine acoustic listening grid, will allow unprecedented resolution of squid life cycles. Commercial, recreational and managerial sectors are collaborating with this research to ensure sustainable management of this commercially important and ecologically crucial species.
Read moreRead less