NESP MaC Project 1.24 – A pilot study into the movement and dispersal of sawfishes 2021-2022 (Murdoch University)

Research Project

Researchers: Adrian Gleiss (Principal investigator) ,  Lawrey, Eric, Dr. (Point of contact) ,  Wolfe, Kennedy (Dr) (Point of contact) ,  eAtlas Data Manager (Point of contact) ,  mailto:b.robson@aims.gov.au (Point of contact)

Brief description This record provides an overview of the NESP Marine and Coastal Hub small-scale study - "A pilot study into the movement and dispersal of sawfishes". For specific data outputs from this project, please see child records associated with this metadata. The aim of this project is to test the utility of satellite telemetry to elucidate the movement and dispersal in large sub-adult and adult sawfishes, which are a poorly understood life-history phase of this globally and nationally endangered group. In 2021, research and monitoring surveys carried out by DPIRD (Fisheries WA) will provide a unique opportunity to access larger size classes of sawfishes in northern Western Australia. This project seeks to use this opportunity to generate a preliminary dataset on the suitability of satellite telemetry approaches that will guide future research on this taxon to inform the recovery plan. Planned Outputs • Raw survey dataset • Animal tag gps tracking data • Tissue Sample • Final technical report with analysed data and a short summary of recommendations for policy makers of key findings [written]

Notes Credit
Team members: Adrian Gleiss (Murdoch University), Matias Braccini (DPIRD), Alastair Harry (DPIRD), Mike Travers (DPIRD)

Notes Credit
National Environmental Science Program (NESP) Marine and Coastal Hub

Notes Credit
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE), Australian Government

Notes Credit
In addition to NESP (DAWE) funding, this project is matched by an equivalent amount of in-kind support and co-investment from project partners and collaborators.

Notes Purpose
The project will not only create novel insight into sawfish behaviour and habitat use that will benefit their management and recovery but knowing how best to deploy and utilise technology will greatly increase options for further data gathering.

Data time period: 2021-09-01 to 2022-09-01

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