Enhancing Conservation: Australian Marine & Freshwater Fishing Entanglements iNaturalist Project Update

Hi fellow conservation enthusiasts,

I am thrilled to share an update on the progress of the Australian Marine & Freshwater Fishing Entanglements iNaturalist project, a crucial initiative in its infancy dedicated to mitigating the impact of fishing equipment on non-target animals. Your participation is key to its success, as the more members and observations we accumulate, the better we can understand and address the adverse effects on our marine and freshwater ecosystems.

Here are some key highlights:

1. Project Growth: As we embark on this journey, the project is in its early stages. Your contributions are invaluable in shaping its outcomes, making it imperative to encourage more individuals and environmental groups to join and share their observations.
2. Spread the Word: A call to action – let's raise awareness about the project. Inform fellow enthusiasts, friends, and environmental organizations about our mission. The more eyes we have on this, the greater the positive impact we can make.
3. Species Observations: The data we've gathered so far reveals intriguing insights. The Sand Tiger Shark tops the list with 32 observations, followed by the Dusky Shark (8), Rakali (6), Pied Cormorant (5), and Yellowfin Bream (5). These findings shed light on the vulnerable species most affected by fishing equipment entanglements.
4. Common Culprits: Fishing Line/Hook emerges as the primary culprit in entanglements. This information is vital as we work towards promoting responsible fishing practices and mitigating the risks associated with specific gear.
5. Community Engagement: As of now, we are a community of 20 dedicated members who have collectively contributed 166 observations. Your involvement is the backbone of this initiative, and together we are building a comprehensive dataset that will aid in conservation efforts.

In conclusion, the success of this project depends on your continued support. Each observation adds to the mosaic of information that empowers us to make a positive impact on our marine and freshwater ecosystems. Join us in spreading the word, sharing your observations, and being champions for the conservation cause.

Let's make a difference together!

James
Australian Marine & Freshwater Fishing Entanglements iNaturalist Project

Posted on January 25, 2024 09:29 AM by jamesh111