The relative abundance* of Maugean Skate in the Macquarie Harbour has increased for the second consecutive year according to a new report by the Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS).
The Third Report of the Maugean Skate Monitoring Project also shows that an increasing number of young skate survive hatching and early development, joining the adult population.
Welcoming the data today was Minister for the Environment, Madeleine Ogilvie, and Jonno Duniam, Federal Shadow Minister for the Environment, Fisheries and Foresty.
"This is yet another sign that, contrary to what the naysayers may say, the future of the Maugean Skate is bright," Minister Ogilvie said.
"These figures are no accident. Both industry and government have invested in science-led solutions, including oxygenation and advanced monitoring, and today we see those efforts paying off."
Senator Duniam also called on the Federal Government to announce, before the upcoming election, the outcome of the EPBC review on salmon farming in Macquarie Harbour.
"Anne Urquhart, Julie Collins and Bec White should listen to the science and obtain from the Prime Minister an ironclad commitment that there will be no job losses for Tasmanian salmon industry workers," Senator Duniam said.
"Once again, our salmon industry has proven to be world-class."
The Tasmanian Government has supported the conservation of the skate through funding of $2.5 million for the IMAS project since 2014, and $2.1 million for actions identified in the 2023-24 Conservation Action Plan.
The latest report is available on the website of IMAS located at: https://www.utas.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/1795799/2014-2024-Macquarie-Harbour-Maugean-skate-population-status-and-monitoring-report.pdf/_nocache
*relative abundance refers to the proportion through time in a defined eco-system of one species compared to others.
