News Release July 3rd, 2009
Rare Black Cod numbers better than expected in Marine Park
Black cod numbers were found to be healthier
then expected in the Port Stephens –
Great Lakes Marine Park
A survey of the rare black cod in the Port Stephens - Great Lakes Marine Park has produced some surprising and pleasing results.
Research scientist with the marine park, Dave Harasti said during the search, which was conducted by marine park and community divers during April and May, a total of 24 of the vulnerable fish were sighted.
“This is really great news for the conservation of the species. I would have been extremely pleased if we’d only found six of these imposing fish,” said Mr Harasti.
Mr Harasti said the black cod, which can grow up to two metres long and weigh 100kg, was the one of the largest and most important fish species in the Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park and said the search was part of an ongoing recovery project for the fish.
“The species is listed as vulnerable because of over-fishing in the 1950s and 1960s. They are a slow growing fish and live a long time, to sixty or seventy years of age.
“As with any threatened species it is important to have as much information as possible about its distribution and abundance. In the 30 spots we surveyed in the marine park, black cod was found in nine sites - 13 in sanctuaries and 11 in habitat protection areas.
“The largest black cod we found during the survey was 1.3 metres long. This fish was seen at The Pinnacle sanctuary near Forster. We were also extremely happy to see mating behaviour at Edith Breaker and Latitude Rock, which are in marine park habitat protection areas.
“As a result of this survey we’ll now recommend a follow up survey of known sites later this year as well as the continuation of the community sighting program. The community was very supportive of this project with several divers and fishers passing on black cod sightings to the MPA.”
Funding for the project was provided by the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority through the Federal Government’s Caring for our Country program. For more information about the community sighting program please call the Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park office on 02 4916 3970.Media Contact: Tonia Liosatos
Telephone: 02 6495 5024
Mobile: 0418 820 504
After Hours: 02 9995 5347