Fisheries Research and Development Corporation Australia - Long Point, Eden

Restoration Project

Fisheries Research and Development Corporation Australia - Long Point, Eden

Restoration Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of reducing C. rodgersii density in barrens on the size and colour of roe for commercial harvest. It also investigated the cost-effectiveness of density reductions for industry.

Cause Of Decline:

Grazing by the purple sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus has resulted in widespread urchin barrens, preventing the growth of Macrocystis pyrifera.

Key Reasons For Decline:

Multiple

Scientific Paper

Research to develop and manage the sea urchin fisheries of NSW and eastern Victoria. FRDC Project No. 1999/128.

D.G. Worthington, C. Blount
https://www.frdc.com.au/sites...es/products/1999-128-DLD.pdf

Site Observations:

Observation Date

15th Dec 1999 – 15th Mar 2002

Action Summary:

Sea urchins were not reduced (control) or reduced to 50% or 0%. Within two locations (i.e. Lennards Is and Long Point) to the north and south of Eden, the treatments were replicated at two sites, each covering an area of reef of 2500 to 5000 m2. The density reductions were commenced in cooperation with commercial sea urchin divers in December 1999, and revisited haphazardly until March 2002 to maintain the appropriate density.

Lessons Learned:

No significant differences in benthic environment.

Project Outcomes:

The profit to the processor of removing urchins was estimated at $20. There were no significant differences in benthic environment.

Key Reasons For Decline:

Multiple

Area of Restoration (Ha)

0.5

Indicator Data:

Indicator:

Ending Value:

Starting Value:

Presence / Absence of Kelp