Standard Presentation Australian Marine Sciences Association 2026 Conference

Increase in abundance of large-bodied fishery species within Sanctuary Zones of a south-western Australian marine park (139643)

Nidhi S. Menon 1 , Jordan Goetze 2 , Brooke A. Gibbons 3 , Claude Spencer 2 , Tim Langlois 3
  1. The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
  2. Marine Science Program, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Perth, WA, Australia
  3. UWA Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia

High fishing pressure is a major factor impacting global marine ecosystems1,2. The creation of No-Take Zone (NTZ) networks is a key method used to boost the recovery of threatened species and conserve local biodiversity3,4. In this study, we used baited stereo-video monitoring techniques to assess the effects of NTZs on the abundance of targeted fishery species within Ngari Capes Marine Park (NCMP) between 2019 and 2024. Our results showed a significant overall increase in the abundance of pink snappers (Chrysophrys auratus) larger than their Minimum Legal Size (MLS), particularly the largest individuals (over 600mm), within the NCMP over the six-year period. Although significantly higher numbers of large C. auratus were recorded within NTZs than areas open to fishing, other targeted fishery species included in this study demonstrated weak responses to protection. The lack of consistent effects observed across species may be attributed to the inability of a number of NTZs within the NCMP to meet crucial design principles which provide increased benefits to regional biodiversity5. The results of our study thus reiterate the positive impacts of NTZs while also highlighting the need to develop more effective NTZ networks to build resilience against various stressors in the future. 

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