11 April 2019

Gulf rivers and productivity links

New research has investigated the potential effects of river flow regulation on catches of the commercially important banana prawn (Penaeus merguiensis).

Probability models predict that peak monthly river flow volumes of < 2,500,000 ML will result in low prawn numbers offshore in the Gulf. This is the first time that thresholds have been identified and the modelling suggests there is probably little capacity to regulate or modify the freshwater flow without reducing prawn catches. For more research see here and here or contact project leader Professor Michele Burford.