Researchers in the Coastal and Estuarine Ecology Theme are world leaders in research into the ecology of tropical estuaries, coastal wetlands and nearshore ecosystems, their values, and approaches to ameliorate and repair human impacts on them.
Research undertaken in these ecosystems by the group includes:
- Evaluation, understanding and quantification of nursery ground values and nursery ground functioning
- Developing understanding of the nature and functioning of the complex mosaic of habitats that comprise estuaries, coastal wetlands and nearshore ecosystems
- Evaluating the role of connectivity in ecosystem functioning, and nursery ground provision
- Quantifying food webs and understanding their structural complexity using stable isotope and dietary studies
- Gaining a more precise understanding of fisheries ecology and fisheries value
- Developing climate change and sea level rise strategies that support ecological and fisheries values
- Provide research and monitoring to support wetland repair projects
- Developing and integrating hi-tech techniques (video, sonar etc.) for ecosystem studies
- Assessing global best-practices for coral restoration and applications for the Great Barrier Reef
- Conducting surveys and impact assessments of coastal areas and ecosystems against rising disturbances
Urban and industrial seascapes
Mangrove Research Hub
Science Integrated Coastal Ecosystem Management
Best Practice Coral Restoration for the Great Barrier Reef
Port water quality monitoring
Shellfish Reef Restoration
Feral pigs and management for wetland protection
Coastal wetland system restoration
Indigenous ranger training for river and wetland health protection
Macroalgal removal on the reefs of Magnetic Island
Marine and coastal habitat restoration for matters of national environmental significance
Boosting coral abundance on the Great Barrier Reef
Whitsunday water quality monitoring blueprint for tourism operators