The Macquarie perch of Lake Dartmouth
Marine and Freshwater Resources Institute, Department of Primary Industries, Private Bag 20 Alexandra Victoria, Australia, 3714
Email: john.douglas@nre.vic.gov.au
The Macquarie perch population of Lake Dartmouth has been reported as being the largest natural population of Macquarie perch in Australia and this reputation has much influence on the national conservation status of the species. Currently the species is listed nationally as endangered but if it were not for the Dartmouth population, the conservation status of the species might indeed be a much higher level of concern. However, the species has a history of population crashes in impoundments and recent investigations on the Lake Dartmouth fishery suggest the future of Macquarie perch in this storage is not assured. The research findings indicate a decline in the recreational catch of Macquarie perch, a decline in growth rates, a decline in fish condition and, a possible decline in spawning habitat.
Room 1 Thursday 4.20 pm
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