Seafloor Snapper habitat survey in Gulf St Vincent
Monday 31 March 2025 Fishing and aquacultureSARDIQuarterly Catch
Snapper inhabit a range of different environments throughout their life cycle. Juveniles in particular, prefer soft, muddy habitats, as revealed by annual surveys conducted in northern Spencer Gulf between 2000 to 2010. While these areas have been well-documented in Spencer Gulf, the distribution of suitable seafloor (benthic) habitats for juvenile Snapper in Gulf St Vincent is poorly understood.
As part of the Snapper Science Program which is co-funded by the South Australian Government and the FRDC, researchers are investigating the spatial distribution of seafloor (benthic) habitats in Gulf St Vincent, with particular focus on the soft sediments preferred by baby (age 0) Snapper.
The survey of Gulf St Vincent was conducted over two research cruises in September and October 2024. During the two weeks at sea, researchers completed 167 underwater camera tows along the seafloor, covering a total of 83.5 km, and collected 207 sediment samples. Formal analysis of the camera footage and sediment samples is currently underway to identify suitable habitats that serve as nursery areas for juvenile Snapper. Find out more about the benthic habitat survey in Gulf St Vincent.
What’s next with Snapper?
We’re developing a plan to support the recovery of depleted stocks and potential future Snapper fishing in SA. Find out more about our Snapper Rebuilding Plan.
