PDA

View Full Version : Barramundi Survey to get underway in Northern Qld



NEWSFLASH
05-10-2001, 07:46 AM
Barramundi Survey to get underway in Northern Queensland

Barramundi populations are being surveyed in the Normanby River (Princess Charlotte Bay), Trinity Inlet, and Burdekin delta during September and October to investigate seasonal size patterns and catch rates of barramundi in these areas.
Researchers from the Department of Primary Industries’ Queensland Fisheries Service are surveying barramundi populations as part of the Coastal Fisheries Resource Monitoring project supported by the CRC Reef Research Centre.
DPI Biologist Stuart Hyland said the research team would spend two days surveying barramundi populations in each location.
"The locations being surveyed contain important barramundi habitat supporting barramundi fisheries. These areas include estuarine and foreshore habitats in the Normanby River in Princess Charlotte Bay, Trinity Inlet, and the Burdekin delta," Mr Hyland said.
These seasonal surveys collect information on catch rates and size structure through a standardised sampling strategy using gill nets. Fish are measured and released. Information on catch rates and the size structure of barramundi populations is used for an assessment of the condition of barramundi populations at the selected locations.
The research team will be surveying barramundi populations in Trinity Inlet on September 24 and 25, Normanby River from October 10 to 12 and the Burdekin Delta from October 23 and 24.
Fishers and other waterway users should be aware of the surveys in these locations to minimise disturbance of sampling gear. Research nets used in the survey are clearly marked and the sampling is being carried out under a research permit.
The study complements Long Term Monitoring investigations undertaken in April.
Anyone wanting further information about the study could contact Dr Neil Gribble at DPI’s Northern Fisheries Centre on 4035 0100.

Further information: Dr Neil Gribble Senior Fisheries Biologist Ph: 40 35 0128 Mobile: 0408 984 356 Andrea Corby Media Officer Ph: 47 222 648