Mangroves are the focus of a new research project by the University of Western Australia to spread awareness of their importance in marine ecosystems.
The project was initiated after new geo-technology discovered over 11,000 hectares of hidden mangroves in the Northern Territory earlier this year.
Esri Australia marine scientist Jennah Williams and the Australian Institute of Marine Science will work alongside the university to investigate and document the condition of mangroves following recent extreme weather events.
Ms Williams said the public needs to understand the key role of mangroves in their ecosystems and that, when damaged, the impact can be as detrimental as coral bleaching.
“Mangroves are considered unappealing and ugly by the public and a larger conservation focus is put forward to more obviously beautiful ecosystems like coral,” Ms Williams said.
Marine science graduate and LNP state member for Cleveland Dr Mark Robinson said it was crucial for the community to engage in marine research early in life to foster a lifelong appreciation for the ocean’s significance.
“I’ve had people come to me as a member of parliament and say, in our area, mangroves grow there, and they’re a nuisance,” Dr Robinson said.
“But they’re a positive thing because mangroves are the nursery for marine life and for fish stocks in their early stages.
“They are really important.”
The latest mangrove project will study mangroves at 10 sites across Australia, focusing on regions in Queensland and Western Australia.
“Bringing the media awareness and nationwide awareness of why they are important for not just the ocean but for humans is how we can protect them,” Ms Williams said.
The public will be actively involved in data collection efforts, using smartphones to allow citizen scientists to contribute to the mapping.
The project will commence in September.
