Understanding aquatic ecosystems through integrated ecological research across species, populations, and environments
Our research
Our research focuses on understanding and conserving aquatic ecosystems across marine, estuarine and freshwater environments. We combine field-based studies, long-term monitoring and advanced analytical approaches to investigate biodiversity, ecosystem processes, and the responses of species and habitats to environmental change. By integrating disciplines and working closely with communities, industry and government, our research delivers high-quality science that informs management, policy and conservation outcomes.
Aquatic Biodiversity and Conservation
Understanding, monitoring, and conserving threatened and endemic species in marine and freshwater ecosystems. Key areas of research:
- Threatened species
- Biodiversity hotspots
- Genetic diversity and cryptic species
- Novel conservation strategies and ecological assessments
Climate Change Impacts and Ecosystem Adaptation
The ecological consequences of drying climates and other climate-driven changes in aquatic ecosystems and the development of new conservation tools and approaches to prevent extirpation and extinction of species and ecosystems. Key areas of research:
- Climate-induced habitat change and loss
- Climate change interactions with other environmental stressors
- Species’ physiological and behavioral adaptation
- New conservation tools and approaches for ameliorating the negative impacts of global warming such as climate drying and warming
- Climate change risk assessment and adaptation frameworks
Ecology of Aquatic Megafauna
Using advanced biologging, telemetry, photography and observational methods to study population dynamics, movement, habitat use and behavior of marine mammals, sharks, rays, and turtles. Key areas of research:
- Movement and habitat use
- Conservation physiology
- Population biology
- Behavioral ecology
- Animal health and welfare
Sustainable aquaculture, Biosecurity and Disease Ecology
Enhancing the sustainability of aquaculture and understanding the ecological impacts of introduced species, disease, parasites. Key areas of research:
- Aquaculture physiology and nutrition under environmental change
- Impacts of introduced aquatic species
- Parasite biodiversity and conservation
- Disease vectors and health risks in aquaculture and wild populations
Socio-ecological Aquatic Research Management
Addresses sustainable use of aquatic resources including by Traditional Custodians, small-scale and commercial fisheries dynamics, and fishery enhancement. Key areas of research:
- Policy and law
- Fisheries science
- Traditional Custodian knowledge and management of resources
- Livelihood sustainability
- Fish stock enhancement and ecological monitoring
- Socio-ecological tools and fisher knowledge integration