Project 1.4.1 - Condition, trends and projected futures of marine species of conservation concern

For detailed descriptions of the outputs for this project for Year 4 (2009/2010) of the MTSRF Research Programme, see the Annual Research Plan.

This project harnesses the expertise of researchers from James Cook University and Queensland's Environmental Protection Agency, together with Indigenous local experts, to conduct world class multidisciplinary problem-focused research that will enhance the scientific information required to develop effective management strategies for the populations of marine species of conservation concern that occur in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and Torres Strait.

The priorities for MTSRF funding have been determined in consultation with key end user groups. The research will be conducted across jurisdictions at spatial scales relevant to ecology of the focal species and to the end users of the research. Including co-investment funded tasks, the research will potentially provide reports on the condition and trends of dugongs, marine turtles and marine turtle habitats (nesting) that occur in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and Torres Strait and evaluate management options to improve the status of these species. Where links between this project and projects in other MTSRF programs occur, we will ensure that collaboration with other research groups occurs to reduce duplication and maximise the research potential of both projects. Where applicable, information from this project/tasks will enable reporting and assessment of the ecosystem health of key environmental assets.