Marine parks and potential marine reserves in Tasmania

Abstract

1. The assemblages of marine plants and animals which occur in the Kent Group, along the south-western Tasmanian coast, and in the vicinity of Bicheno, are described. 2. The Kent Group appears to have a much greater number of Peronian (New South Wales) marine species than other localities in Tasmania. 3. The marine flora and fauna found along the southern Tasmanian coast is depauperate compared to that found elsewhere in the State. 4. A benthic faunal assemblage is present in unusually shallow water in Bathurst Channel. 5. It is recommended that. - (i) a Nature Reserve, extending offshore for a distance of 2 km, be declared in the Kent Group, (ii) a Nature Reserve be declared near Bicheno to include Governor Island and a marine extension which encompasses the submerged lands eastward for a distance of 300 m,and (iii) the previously proposed Woodbridge marine reserve not be proceeded with.