Movement and population ecology of elasmobranchs
We are examining population genomic structure and exposure of threatened shark and ray populations to anthropogenic threats, including from fisheries, industrial development, tourism and climate variability.
Project leads: Anthony Richardson, Craig Franklin, Christine Dudgeon
Climate change effects on marine turtles
We are examining the impacts of climate change on the sex-ratios and hatching of marine turtle populations across the Indo-Pacific, and determining the importance of rainfall and irrigation in producing males.
Project leads: Ian Tibbetts, David Booth
Seabird and migratory shorebird population dynamics
We are quantifying the population impacts of threats to migratory shorebirds across the East Asian-Australasian Flyway and seabirds across the Great Barrier Reef, working with stakeholders to support population recovery.
Project leads: Richard Fuller, Hugh Possingham, Brad Woodworth
Dugong health and population structure
We conduct annual health assessments of the dugong population in South East Queensland, and use genetic tools to investigate dugong populations in their Indo-Pacific range.
Project leads: Janet Lanyon
Stress physiology of wild marine mammals
We are developing and applying biomarkers to identify the major stressors (natural, anthropogenic) to marine mammals (dugongs, manatees, dolphins) in their changing coastal environments.
Project leads: Janet Lanyon, Tamara Keeley
Cetacean acoustics and ecology
We study physiology, acoustic communication, behaviour, social learning, sociality, and population dynamics, primarily in humpback whales. We apply outcomes to determine anthropogenic impacts such as ocean noise and climate change.
Project leads: Rebecca Dunlop, Michael Noad
Crocodile behaviour and ecology
We use biotelemetry to understand crocodile physiology, social systems, movements and interactions with the natural environment, to inform management and conservation.
Project leads: Craig Franklin
Enhancing the welfare of captive marine animals
We are investigating the influences of enrichment programs, enclosure design and local environment on the behaviour and health of captive marine vertebrates (penguins, dolphins).
Project leads: Janet Lanyon, Tamara Keeley
