Scaling the depths for a stock-take of the piscatorial peninsula

Andrew Mathieson
VOLUNTEER researchers are discovering a hidden treasure of reef fish along the Bellarine Peninsula’s shores.
Recreational scuba divers and snorkellers have taken to the water to inspect inhabitants below the surface in a third Great Victorian Fish Count.
The annual census to monitor and care for marine life at Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary, St Leonards pier and offshore from Queenscliff will continue for another two weekends.
Reef Watch Victoria coordinator Wendy Roberts said the count aimed to take a snapshot of possibly 25 of the most interesting fish species at the key underwater locations.
“They’re not fish most people would normally know about because we don’t eat them and there’s not much research because we don’t have much money to put into them,” she said.
“They’re beautiful and, if you look at our survey, it’s something you would expect to see in the tropics.
“You’re not looking at dull, silver fish; they are gorgeous and have stories to tell.
“Some hang around for 30 years and they’re a good indicator the reef is healthy.”
Ms Roberts said volunteers were recording fish numbers and species among the peninsula’s kelp forests, sponge gardens and seagrass meadows.
Scientists, recreational managers and conservation groups would benefit from the data, she said.
“This (count) is about making people aware they can impact their environment without even knowing.”
Ms Roberts said 13 species were counted last weekend off the coast, including a rarely seen western blue groper.