Researchers uncover unexpected findings after sharks munch far more voraciously on the spiky sea creatures left out 'on a platter' for the invasive creature's known predators, lobsters.
Researchers uncover unexpected findings after sharks munch far more voraciously on the spiky sea creatures than their known predators, lobsters.Sea urchins are regarded as a pest in Australian waters where they eat kelp and seagrass to create barren wastelands on the ocean floor.
"Port Jackson sharks and crested hornsharks came in and smashed 45 per cent of the tethered urchins. That was really unexpected.""Generally the model has been that really large lobsters are these awesome urchin predators, and when you overfish large lobsters the thought is that urchins get out of hand," Mr Day said.The discovery could help inform better plans on how to manage the sea urchin population.
The taskforce is comprised of Tasmanian, NSW, and Victorian fisheries agencies, as well as the CSIRO and the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation.
Sea Urchin Lobster Predator Longspined Sea Urchins Sea Urchin Taskforce Port Jackson Shark Crested Hornshark
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Sharks found to eat sea urchins as large as their heads in accidental discovery by Australian researchersResearchers tethered 50 long-spined and 50 short-spined urchins outside lobster den and sharks were observed ‘smashing the whole thing’
Read more »
‘They taught us a lesson’: Why Sharks won’t make same mistake twice against RoostersCronulla’s NRLW coach Tony Herman is confident his team can upset the odds on grand final day against the team that handed them their heaviest defeat of the year.
Read more »
Ryles boosts forwards depth as Sharks enforcer makes Eels switch — NRL Transfer CentreNRL: The Panthers may be the three time reigning Premiers, but they remained fueled by their 2020 loss to the Storm.
Read more »
‘It’s happening’: Nicho’s Sharks switch on the cards amid $300k playmaker’s emergenceNRL: The NRL 360 panel discuss whether Nicho Hynes should switch position in order for Braydon Trindall to play halfback.
Read more »
Legend’s powerful Ponga warning; stunning proof $900k Sharks call is bang on: CrawleyNRL: The NRL 360 panel continue the discussion regarding Kalyn Ponga withdrawing from Kangaroos selection and question whether he is eligible to play for New Zealand.
Read more »
Sharks snubbed, shock Dogs bolter as Meninga’s extended Kangaroos squad revealedNRL: Panthers gun Mitch Kenny has revealed how he felt joining an already established Premiership team
Read more »