Life in the Southern Ocean
Penguins resting on a massive ice berg. |
Our research takes an ecosystem approach and views each of the components under study in the context of the whole system - physical, chemical and biological.
The focus of this program is research that guides the conservation of the marine ecosystems around Antarctica. We provide vital information on:
- the fisheries of this region
- populations of seals
- populations of seabirds
- populations of whales, many of which are undergoing changes as a result of past exploitation
In particular, we conduct research on:
- the biology and distribution of the commercially harvested species - krill, toothfish and icefish
- developing new approaches to managing fisheries
- reducing the bycatch of seabirds in fisheries
- understanding changes in the numbers of Adelie penguins to monitor for fisheries effects
- determining the diet, distribution patterns and population structure of whales
- developing new techniques and models to examine diet, movement patterns, abundance and ecosystem interactions
Euphausia superba, Antarctic krill
Photo: T Carter
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Our research includes:
- large scale surveys of waters off the Antarctic and the subantarctic islands
- research from fishing vessels
- research from camps on the Antarctic continent and on Heard Island
- aquarium-based studies
- research and development back in Australia
Most of our research produces results that can be used by international management bodies such as the International Whaling Commission or the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.
We provide regular assessments of commercially harvested fish populations around Heard and Macdonald Islands for the Australian Fisheries Management Authority.
Metadata for Southern Ocean ecosystems are held at the Australian Antarctic Data Centre.
