DPIRD scientists working with Murdoch University, Edith Cowan University and Curtin University and CSIRO have been busy studying key fish and invertebrate species, and their life stages in Cockburn Sound for the WAMSI Westport Marine Science Program.
Heading out for more than 220 field days, DPIRD scientists collected more than 270,000 fish and invertebrates from 244 species. Western butterfish have been the most widespread species – occurring at 140 sites and getting caught or observed in all sampling methods.
A combination of many methods and sampling gears has been used, enabling a broad range of species to be collected over multiple size classes and life stages. As well as the tried-and-true plankton nets, trawls, traps and BRUVS, we also use some novel techniques like light traps, squid jigging, hydro-acoustics and drones.
This research will help us identify the habitats of popular species, ensuring we can continue to provide evidence-based scientific advice on their abundance and distribution across the Sound.