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Aquatic & Marine Animals

South Australia's marine and estuarine waters are some of the most biologically diverse in the world. They support activities such as fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, recreation, ports and harbours and mining among others – all important to the South Australian economy. More than 90% of South Australians live on or near the coast and many people work on the coast or visit it. Our coastal waters and aquatic animals are under pressure from development and overuse, pollution and the introduction of pest species. Strategic planning and integrated management are needed for the long-term conservation, development and productivity of these environments.

Some examples help to illustrate the biodiversity of South Australia's marine and esturine waters:

Over 1,100 different species of green, brown and red algae have been recorded;
There are extensive and diverse seagrass meadows that provide critically important breeding and nursery habitats for fish, crustaceans and other marine animals;
Over 370 marine fish species have been recorded, of which 77 are used commercially. These include traditionally fished species such as King George Whiting, Snook, Snapper, Garfish, Tommy Ruff and Australian Salmon, as well as those meeting developing markets - Pilchards, Ocean Jackets, Sand Crabs, Blue Crabs and Calamari;
Southern Right Whales regularly visit coastal bays and inlets around South Australia. The Head of the Bight is one of the most significant habitats for the breeding and calving of Southern Right Whales in the world;
Eight species of seals and sea-lions are found in our waters, including the rare Australian Sea-lion and the New Zealand Fur-seal (50Kb PDF), both of which breed here;
The Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary is an initiative between the South Australian Government, the community and industry to create and manage a sanctuary for the dolphins of the Port Adelaide River and Barker Inlet - and, at the same time, create a better environment for everyone who uses the area.

Marine pollution in the form of discarded plastic bags, bait box strapping, fishing line and buoy ropes can cause slow agonising deaths to marine animals. Australian Seal-lions are particularly susceptible to entanglement due to their inquisitive nature. Rubbish can enter the sea via creeks, rivers, stormwater drains and wind. There are a number of simple things you can do to replace marine pollution: When transporting rubbish, secure loads; reduce the use of plastic bags; if fishing from a boat use a rubbish bin on board and if fishing from the shore or jetty dispose of bait bags and old line thoughtfully.

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Aquatic & Marine Animals