Federal Government pledge $2M to save endangered Maugean skate from extinction

It’s on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 1000 left in Macquarie Harbour, but now, new funding has created hope for the endangered Maugean skate. What the money will be used for.

A Maugean skate

A new captive breeding program will be created to bring the endangered Maugean skate back from the brink of extinction, as the Federal Government commits funding to protect the species.

For Endangered Species Day, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek announced more than $2.1m will be invested to help save the Maugean skate, which will fund the program to create an insurance population.

Scientists estimate there are less than 1000 Maugean skate living in Macquarie Harbour because of low oxygen levels and poor water quality.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA, NewsWire Photos. SEPTEMBER 6, 2023: Tanya Plibersek during Question Time at Parliament House in Canberra. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Martin Ollman

The ‘Tasmanian tiger of the sea’ is one of 110 species a part of the Government’s threatened species recovery plan.

“The Maugean skate has been in trouble for many years now and the population in Bathurst

Harbour is already lost,” Ms Plibersek said.

“We have to act fast to bring it back from the brink of extinction. We need better protection and funding for urgent conservation – and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

“We know the key threats remain poor water quality in Macquarie Harbour from aquaculture and hydro operations.”

Ms Plibersek said the government was committed to protecting plants, animals and nature for future generations.

“Our Government is committed to doing what we can to assist, and we urge the salmon industry and Tasmanian Government to take the action needed to clean up Macquarie Harbour so the Maugean skate can survive for another 100 million years,” she said.