"Hands of Hope", a purpose-built captive breeding facility for critically endangered red handfish, was officially opened today at Seahorse World in Beauty Point, Tasmania.
The red handfish was once found widely off the coast of south-eastern Tasmania.
Sadly, due to habitat loss by over-grazing of kelp and seagrass it is estimated that less than 100 live in two small patches of reef in Frederick Henry Bay near Hobart, where individuals travel no more than 30 metres per year.
Supported by $68,000 from the Albanese Government, the new facility will be used to bolster captive bred populations while scientists continue to monitor wild populations. A strong insurance population is crucial to long-term plans to recover the species, including by enabling establishment of additional wild populations at other sites in years to come.
The facility includes a public display to help continue to raise awareness of this imperilled marine species and the threats to its survival.
It is the second captive breeding facility for red handfish that the Federal Government has funded and brings government investment to over $1 million.
The red handfish is one of 110 species prioritised for recovery under the Government Threatened Species Action Plan.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek:
"Captive breeding programs are important to safeguard and supplement wild populations. They also provide unique opportunities to learn more about native species.
"This facility is just one of the many initiatives we have funded to make sure the red handfish survives and thrives for our kids and grandkids.
"I look forward to seeing more red handfish return to their natural environment."
Quotes attributable to Senator for Tasmania, Helen Polley:
"The critically endangered red handfish deserves support so we can try to recover its natural habitat numbers.
"Tasmanians believe in a sustainable Tasmania. This facility will support this endangered species as well as science jobs and economic development in Northern Tasmania."
