Standard Presentation 2024 Australian Marine Sciences Association Annual Meeting combined with NZMSS

A path to recovery: Conservation of the red handfish through translocation and habitat restoration (#454)

Tyson J Bessell 1 , Rick D Stuart-Smith 1 , Olivia J Johnson 1 , Neville S Barrett 1 , Andrew J Trotter 1 , Jemina Stuart-Smith 1
  1. University of Tasmania, Battery Point, TASMANIA, Australia

The Critically Endangered red handfish (Thymichthys politus) is one of the most threatened marine fishes in the world. With dwindling population numbers and restricted habitat ranges, urgent conservation action is crucial for the survival of the red handfish. Recent research into the species' life history reveals alarming declines in abundance and density, with evidence suggesting that this decline is continuing. This talk explores these declines and outlines plans for the translocation of captive-bred red handfish. Emphasis is placed on the integration of habitat restoration with translocation efforts, highlighting the importance of enhancing both current and future habitats. This approach aims not only to prevent the extinction of this unique species but also to serve as a model for similar conservation efforts globally.