Redmap May newsletter 2015
This edition reviews Redmap's community observations, including the Top 3 sightings per state. Also, check out the interviews with Redmap members and other marine news! Read the May newsletter.
Top 3 sightings per state and other Redmap data
Australian fishers, divers and beachcombers have shared on Redmap more than 1270 sightings of marine life they considered uncommon to their local seas. More than a quarter of the confirmed sightings were out of their usual home range; and many more were valuable observations of elusive or poorly-documented species. And, divers appeared to be the most enthusiastic reporters to Redmap! Here is a snapshot of Redmap's citizen science data, including …
What the FISH? Catching ‘mainland’ fish in Tasmania
A changing climate and strengthening East Australian Current mean the east coast of Tasmania is a ‘hotspot’, with seas warming almost four times the global average. So it’s no surprise that warmer-water fish are turning up further south than usual. And often to the delight of Tassie fishers!
Southern Tasmanian beaches aglow with Sea Sparkle
LOCAL photographers have been rejoicing in a special sight on southern beaches during the past few nights, writes the Mercury. Read the full story here.
Swordfish in Tasmania?
The Mercury writes: LAST summer’s discovery of swordfish in Tasmanian waters could trigger a stampede of well-heeled recreational fishers from interstate and overseas. Fishing enthusiast Leo Miller said eastern Tasmanian waters were suddenly shaping up as one of the best fishing grounds for one of the world’s most sought after game fish. Mr Miller said he believed swordfish had always been common in Tasmanian waters, near the edge of the …
Is Climate Change Making Animals Smaller?
Sea life near volcanic seeps may offer clues as to how animals will adapt to global warming and ocean acidification, writes the New Yorker. Read the full story here.
Kelp beds transplanted to Tasmania to help reveal effects of climate change
In a world-first study, scientists have transplanted kelp off the coast of Tasmania to better understand the impact of climate change, writes ABC Online. The kelp, which grows from northern New South Wales around to Western Australia, provides an ecosystem for hundreds of marine species. Now it is thinning and becoming patchy because of warming waters. Read the full story here at ABC Online.
A beautiful garden in the sea
Deep below the waves, photographer Ian Wallace discovers a beautiful world of seaweed gardens that few people get to see, writes ABC Science. See his amazing images here.
Marine changes are shared experiences
Local, lived experiences add value to the science documenting changes in our marine environments, says researcher Gretta Pecl, supporting better decisions for the future of our fisheries. Read about Dr Pecl's research, life, and Redmap on the FRDC website.
Yellow bellied sea snake’s epic Tasmanian swim
A RARE reptilian visitor has turned up on Tasmanian shores after a marathon swim from warmer waters, writes The Mercury. Read the full story about the yellow bellied sea snake here.
