University of Tasmania scientists hatch first captive-born Maugean skate, a critically endangered species, in a government-funded conservation program.
Scientists at the University of Tasmania's Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies have successfully hatched the first captive-born Maugean skate, a critically endangered ancient fish species. This breakthrough marks a significant step towards conserving the species, which has faced challenges due to a decline in water quality in its only natural habitat, Macquarie Harbour, exacerbated by salmon farming. The successful hatching is part of a government-funded program aimed at improving captive holding and rearing methods for the Maugean skate and addressing environmental concerns in Macquarie Harbour. The first hatchling, a female, was born after approximately 7 months of development at the IMAS facility in Taroona.
August 13, 2024
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