Aquatic Ecology Services

The loss of and degradation of aquatic ecosystems has seen an increase in the importance of management and protection within aquatic habitats. AMBS takes a multidisciplinary approach to management and assessment, drawing from the expertise of Australian Museum staff who are continually producing benchmark publications within aquatic environments.

Australian Museum marine ecology staff consist of leading taxonomic expertise in marine fauna, including polychaetes, crustaceans, molluscs and fish. Habitats particularly susceptible to human impact are often the target of research, including collaboration on commercial projects with AMBS. Our affiliation with the Museum's research team allows us to provide our clients with the most advanced surveying techniques and use of specialised equipment.

Our aquatic biologists are certified Occupational SCUBA Divers (AS 2815.1 -- part 1), who comply with the strict standards of Australian Museum Protocols for safe diving. Underwater survey techniques include taking core samples, quadrats, transects, percent cover, visual censuses, and underwater photography.

Key Project

National Survey Standards for Fish

Australian Museum Business Services was commissioned by DEH to develop new guidelines for fish. This project involved review of currently available literature on survey methods; review of standard survey guidelines currently utilised by State and Territory Departments and organisations; consultation with experts for unpublished information where necessary; and drawing up Draft National Survey Standards.

AMBS prepared fish species profiles to the Department of Environment and Heritage in order to assist assessment officers of Environment Australia in determining whether or not an action would have a significant impact on any of these species.

Lisa McCaffrey , Technical Officer
Last Updated: 22 April 2009