New study to investigate saltwater crocs’ impact on the environment since becoming protected
A STUDY into the saltwater crocodile is seeking to determine the impact their protection and subsequent population boom has had on the environment.
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A STUDY into the saltwater crocodile is seeking to determine the impact their protection and subsequent population boom has had on the environment.
Researchers from Charles Darwin University as well as Griffith University, the Australian Institute for Marine Science, the Northern Territory Government and Larrakia rangers will assess the ecological changes that have arisen due to the protection of salties across Northern Australia.
Crocodiles became protected in 1971, after they were almost hunted into extinction.
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Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods Professor Hamish Campbell said the $390,000 grant would help researchers uncover the benefits of conserving them.
“We know crocodiles have significant economic and cultural value, but we don’t know what impact their recovery is having upon the Northern Territory’s unique wetland ecosystems,” Prof Campbell said.
“I have heard from fishermen that the barramundi fishing has improved with crocodile recovery, which suggests broadscale ecological impacts.
“But these are only anecdotal reports, and this project will help us to understand if and why this is happening.
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“There is also a growing body of evidence that shows retaining or restoring large carnivores into ecosystems will counter environmental challenges such as biological invasions, disease, and climate change.”
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