Megan Brief’s Post

Environmental DNA is perfect for a quick survey of fish diversity in the mangroves. Without catching any fish, we can detect the fish species that lives in the water by filtering it for remnant tissue that contains DNA. Basically, we are doing fish CSI. Knowing the diversity would help us showcase the estuary, improve fishery management and promote recreational fishing. https://lnkd.in/eBYKpWDw

The Cost of Poor Process: Lessons from the QLD & NT Barramundi Fishery Closures Australia's Wild Caught Barramundi Fisheries have been caught in the crosshairs of misinformation and poor decision-making, with far-reaching consequences for industry and communities. The risk ratings from a draft 2020 environmental risk assessment have been widely shared to discredit the industry. Following an independent review, it was confirmed in July this year that the assessment was not fit for publication. Just days after both sides of politics had declared they would phase out gillnets if reelected. Meanwhile, the University of Queensland's integrity unit has just confirmed its branding was misused on a 2023 WWF-commissioned opinion piece authored by a WWF/AMCS staff member. Before this, the paper was presented to UNESCO and used to promote fishery closures in Queensland and the NT—closures that have significantly disrupted the lives and livelihoods of many Australians. The university branding and all important CRICOS and TEQSA identifiers must now be removed from the WWF report and replaced with the authors' affiliations. Cold comfort to those whose lives have been so significantly impacted. Adding to the confusion, a novel recreational fishing survey claimed an economic footprint of $280M and a sustainable recreational fishery in the Territory. The reality is that a large part of the NT's recreational fishing is targeting significantly depleted stocks, creating substantial economic and environmental costs. These inflated claims and flawed processes have led to outcomes that lack balance and evidence, leaving us with a black hole instead of any social and economic benefits. 🎉 In the Territory, new Fisheries Minister Gerard Maley has called for a return to evidence-based decision-making, and this is a welcome step forward—one that recognizes the importance of relying on sound science and inclusive processes to address complex challenges. Effective Engagement Matters The importance of effective stakeholder engagement cannot be overstated. These flawed processes remind us how critical it is to involve all voices and perspectives to achieve balanced and sustainable solutions. The Australian Public Service Engagement Framework is an excellent resource, providing a clear and easy-to-use guide to matching the right engagement approach to the considered process. It’s an excellent reminder for everyone involved in decision-making to ensure we walk the talk on transparency, inclusion, and accountability. #SustainableFisheries #StakeholderEngagement #EvidenceBasedDecisions #Barramundi

Our latest The Conversation Australia + NZ article:

Conserving African manatees starts with sharing knowledge. From blending scientific insights with indigenous wisdom to inspiring those far from manatee habitats, every action counts. 🌍 Mongabay ‘s insightful article beautifully captures what African manatees are, painting a vivid picture of their appearance, habitat, and the challenges they face. Though they are elusive in the wild, this read brings them to life. Dive into the full story by clicking the link below.

Top 10 African countries with the largest number of rhinos left

A fresh take on an ancient Egyptian tradition: marking the place a loved one is laid to rest. Learn more about Better Place Forests' fresh take on an age old tradition: https://lnkd.in/gjzeErwr

PROJECT OF THE WEEK! In Africa, elephant populations have gone from nearly 10 million in 1930 to 415,000 as of today 😔 They need our resources and protection 🐘🇰🇪 >> Project details Elephants in the Greater Mara Ecosystem in Kenya (the northern portion of the Serengeti Plains) are facing a double threat: human-elephant conflicts and poaching. To mitigate those, rangers and researchers monitor elephant movements, demographics, and environmental data 🔎 They rely on drones, radars, satellite elephant collars, and more to support their intelligence network. By funding the rangers, poachers are kept in check, and conflicts with human activities (agriculture, livestock, housing) are prevented by keeping elephants away 🤝 >> Impact 🐘 Elephants: Protected from poachers and humans by mitigating conflicts 🧑🤝🧑 Humans: Learn to coexist with their big-eared neighbors 🛡️ Rangers: local employment opportunities: “MEP has made me a different person by opening my eyes to finding a livelihood in conservation that is fulfilling.” MEP Ranger Caren Yegon Cheptoo 📱 Technology: Development of in-house software and tech to better protect elephants. ⚖️ Poachers: In the past 10 years, 500+ were arrested (26 just last year) >> Who’s behind it The Mara Elephant Project (MEP) is dedicated to conserving the elephants and their habitats in Kenya 🌳 They initially fought poaching, but now also combat the challenges of habitat loss and human-elephant conflicts due to expanding human activities 💥 With over 60 rangers, their 4 angle strategy is: elephant population protection, habitat preservation, fostering human-elephant coexistence, and ensuring landscape connectivity. >> MEP: from anti-poaching to developing communities Founded in 2011 by Suzanne Fehsenfeld, MEP focuses on this region in Africa where an estimated 40% of Africa’s large mammal species is found though it covers only 0.1% of the continent’s land surface 🌍 They have established themselves as a leading organization for elephant conservation, and now work more and more with local communities to bring them onboard as key stakeholders in protecting elephants ⚙️ Find out more about MEP in this video to see who and what you’ll be supporting: https://lnkd.in/exyGEMvk

🌟 Meet Marwa Kavelaars 🌟 The biologist is specialized in exploring animal behavior and movement ecology. At the Center for Adaptive Rationality, she expands her research interests to include human decision-making. In her current project, she studies human foraging behavior of Finnish ice fishers. Curious about Marwa's research? Get a brief impression of her work by watching this video: https://lnkd.in/epTe3jWd And for more in-depth insights, check out the complete interview: https://lnkd.in/ey9bTzZp #MaxPlanckAndMe #WomenInScience

10 fascinating facts about the mandarin fish (my little favorite fish out in the reef). - Never put it in an aquarium!!! Vibrant Colors Mandarin fish, specifically the mandarinfish (Synchiropus splendidus), are known for their stunning, vibrant colors, including shades of blue, orange, green, and yellow. Their vivid hues make them popular in the aquarium trade. Small Size Mandarin fish are small, typically growing to about 6 - 8 cm (2.4 - 3 inches) in length. Their compact size makes them a favorite among marine aquarists. (Please never do this, this fish has to stay out in the reef!!!) Habitat They are native to the Pacific Ocean, particularly in coral reefs around Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, PNG, and Indonesia. They are often found in shallow, sheltered lagoons. Diet Mandarin fish are carnivorous and primarily feed on small crustaceans like copepods and amphipods. In captivity, they can be challenging to feed due to their specific dietary needs. Nocturnal Behavior They are generally more active at dusk and dawn, often foraging for food in the crevices of coral reefs during these times. Mucus Coat Mandarin fish secrete a thick mucus coating that not only protects them from parasites but also gives them a unique, slippery texture. This mucus can also contain toxins that deter predators. Reproductive Behavior Mandarin fish are known for their fascinating mating displays. Males perform elaborate dances to attract females, culminating in a synchronized rise into the water column where they release eggs and sperm. Lack of Scales Unlike many other fish, mandarin fish do not have scales. Instead, their bodies are covered with the aforementioned mucus layer, which protects them from infections and injuries. Difficulty in Captivity Mandarin fish are considered difficult to keep in captivity due to their specialized diet and need for a well-established reef tank with ample live rock where they can find natural food sources. No it's not related to the Mandarin Duck: Despite the name, the mandarin fish has no relation to the mandarin duck, although both are named for their bright, elaborate colors. The name "mandarin" comes from the similarity in vivid coloration. #protectourocens #protectourreefs #ouroceansneedourhelp #actnow #stopdeeseamining #bandeepseamining #bantrawlingnets https://lnkd.in/dsSdWe5U

Bringing back cherished memories from my childhood, watching a group of local herders draw water from a well using a manual pulley system is truly nostalgic. Alongside them, the majestic Bactrian camels remind me of their incredible ability to drink 8-10 gallons of water in one sitting. This scene beautifully reflects the harmonious coexistence and shared responsibilities between humans and animals in Mongolia's timeless landscape. #MongolianHerders #BactrianCamels #TraditionalLife #WaterSource #HarmoniousCoexistence #TimelessLandscape #GoMongolia #DiscoverMongolia"