Australia, committed to global marine conservation efforts under the Ocean Decade initiative, is leveraging advanced seafloor mapping techniques to monitor and manage biodiversity in its Exclusive Economic Zone, extending up to 200 nautical miles from the coastline. Almost half of this vast area encompasses Australian Marine Parks, which are now subject to intensified monitoring aimed at identifying and addressing key environmental pressures.
The recently published research in Frontiers in Marine Science introduces the AusSeabed program, a national initiative launched in 2018. This program compiles bathymetric data to create geomorphometric maps, allowing scientists to predict biological assemblages’ scale and location while monitoring changes over extended periods. Dr. Vanessa Lucieer and colleagues focused on 37 out of Australia’s 61 Marine Parks, employing a quantitative approach to assess seafloor landforms.
The study revealed the prevalence of various bathymetric features, including planes (flat surfaces), slopes, ridges, troughs, and valleys. The mesophotic and upper-slope zones, critical habitats for fish and biodiversity, were specifically targeted. Understanding the unique bathymetric profiles enables tailored management strategies for each marine park, optimizing conservation efforts.
The mesophotic zone, along with the rariphotic zone (70 m–150 m depth), was identified as a key habitat for fish, placing it under pressure from industrial fishing practices. Targeted conservation efforts in these zones can safeguard both the natural environment and sustainable food supplies. Ridges, known for high biodiversity, were also highlighted, aiding in the strategic allocation of resources for habitat conservation.
While the research represents a crucial step in using geomorphometrics for ecosystem monitoring and management, it acknowledges limitations tied to the quality and coverage of bathymetric data. As efforts to conserve marine ecosystems evolve, the study emphasizes the need for ongoing scientific endeavors to ensure positive shifts in oceanic health, safeguarding these vital ecosystems for generations to come.
