Ecology of Aquatic Megafauna
Understanding population biology, movement, behavior, and habitat use of aquatic megafauna to inform conservation and management.
The Ecology of Aquatic Megafauna theme brings together research on dolphins, dugongs, sharks, turtles, sawfish and rays to advance a rigorous, integrated understanding of their ecology, population dynamics, and ecosystem function. These taxa occupy key ecological roles—as apex and mesopredators, grazers, and bioturbators—and are widely recognised as indicators of environmental condition in aquatic systems.
Our work spans fundamental and applied science, combining long-term datasets, field-based observation, and emerging technologies to quantify movement, behaviour, and demographic processes across spatial and temporal scales. This research underpins evidence-based conservation and informs management and policy, while also addressing the socio-ecological dimensions of marine megafauna, including their cultural and economic significance. Collectively, our program seeks to generate robust, policy-relevant knowledge that supports the persistence of these species and the integrity of the ecosystems they structure.
Research
Researchers
Dr Adrian Gleiss
Dr Jenna Hounslow
Physiology, Ecology & Conservation Lab
The Physiology, Ecology & Conservation (PEAC) Lab conducts interdisciplinary research focused on the ecology, physiology, and evolution of marine megafauna, including sharks, rays, turtles, and other large marine vertebrates.
The group conducts fundamental and applied research to understand how animals function and interact with their environment, and to inform conservation, management, and policy decisions.
The lab is particularly recognised for its expertise in animal-attached remote sensing (BioLogging), using advanced “smart tags” to measure behaviour and physiology in free-ranging animals.
The group’s broader capabilities include:
- BioLogging and biologging technology development
- Energetics and physiology
- Movement ecology and tracking
- Remote and field-based research
- Quantitative ecology
Our work is done in collaboration with a broad suite of international research partners, First Nations Traditional Owner groups, as well as NGOs and government agencies.
For more information visit PEAC Lab website.
Researchers
Dr Krista Nicholson
Dr Delphine Chabanne
Marine Mammal Research Lab
The Marine Mammal Research Lab conducts high-quality, empirical and applied research to advance the understanding and conservation of marine mammal populations.
We use photo-identification, behavioural observations, and genetic sampling to investigate population dynamics, social structure, movement ecology and behaviour. Our long-term datasets provide crucial insights into population connectivity and status, supporting evidence-based conservation management.
At the core of our research is a long-term commitment to tracking known individuals. This approach allows us to uncover fine-scale patterns in demographic and behavioural traits, both within and between populations. It also enables us to address key questions about fitness, site fidelity, and social organisation with the resolution needed to understand the complexity of marine mammal societies.
The Marine Mammal Research Lab also offers consultancy services, supported by a fleet of research vessels, qualified coxswains, and licensed drone pilots. The combination of scientific knowledge and operational capability positions us to support industry, government, and conservation partners with rigorous, field-ready solutions.
