Declines of oysters and Vallisneria in the Russell River catchment

Oysters and Vallisneria, a freshwater plant similar to seagrass, are important ecosystem engineers. They filter water, provide habitats for fish and crustaceans, and sequester carbon. Both habitats are believed to play a role in the condition of water quality.

Since the 1960s, oyster reefs and Vallisneria meadows have significantly declined in the Russell River catchment, severely impacting these vital ecosystem services.

Restoring these habitats is now a priority. But the drivers of oyster and Vallisneria loss and recovery aren’t fully understood. Understanding these influences is critical before attempting restoration.

 

Partnering with rangers for science-based ecosystem restoration

Working with Jaragun EcoServices and Wanjuru Rangers, our researchers are trialling the restoration of oyster reefs and Vallisneria in the Russell River catchment. 

This project is the first to trial the restoration of Vallisneria anywhere in Australia and the first restoration of oyster reefs in the Australian tropics. Baseline surveys are already underway, with experimental field trials likely to commence late 2024.

The project involves:

• Developing and strengthening Wanjuru Ranger skills, abilities, and capabilities for coastal restoration techniques and monitoring.

• Collecting baseline data on oyster reefs, Vallisneria and environmental conditions in the Russell River catchment.

• Conducting experimental restoration trials for oyster species and Vallisneria in the Russell River catchment.

Maximising the success of restoration 

Understanding all factors that could influence the success of these restoration efforts, including methodology and ecological drivers, is critical to maximise long-term success.  

Over two years, scientists and rangers will gather important baseline data on the current distribution of oyster reefs and Vallisneria in the Russell River catchment. This includes environmental conditions, such as water quality and carbon stocks. This data will be critical for guiding, informing and supporting restoration trials. 

Throughout this project, Wanjuru Rangers will gain the essential skills needed to manage and conserve these habitats, and the ability to help restore oysters and Vallisneria on Country.

Project details

This project is led by Jaragun EcoServices, with Associate Professor Nathan Waltham providing scientific research. Jaragun EcoServices is a Wanjuru-Yidinji owned and operated Traditional Owner organisation of the catchment. Funding is provided by the Australian Government’s Reef Trust under the Reef Coastal Restoration Program.