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Exploring the movement, ecology, and conservation of marine megafauna

Research Projects

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Initiatives

Pioneering Megafauna Research in Gathaagudu /Shark Bay

The Gathaagudu Animal Tracking (GAT) Project focuses on a range of research initiatives in Shark Bay, exploring the movement, ecology, and conservation of marine megafauna. Our diverse portfolio of projects reflects the GAT Project’s commitment to advancing marine conservation and ecological understanding through cutting-edge research and community collaboration. Below are some of the key projects we are currently undertaking.

All DUGONGS SEAGRASS SHARKS TURTLES
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01

Tiger Shark Genomics

SHARKS

Tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) are highly migratory, which makes it difficult to understand where they came from and how big their populations are.

Lead Researcher: PhD Student Jessica Pearce, in collaboration with the UWA-Minderoo OceanOmics Centre

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02

Population genetics of green sea turtle: Insights into breeding, migration, and conservation

TURTLES

Population genetics of green sea turtle: Insights into breeding, migration, and conservation. Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) can travel thousands of kilometres from their nesting sites to their foraging grounds. We know that green turtles forage in Shark Bay, but we do not know where most of these animals are coming from.

Honours Project: Jaiden Lane, in collaboration with the ANU

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03

Drivers of Tiger Shark Movement in Shark Bay

SHARKS

Tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) are essential to maintaining Shark Bay’s ecosystem, yet little is known about how environmental variables influence their movements. Using satellite tags, we have found that tiger shark movements are impacted by salinity, seagrass beds, and water depth. Dense seagrass beds with generally lower salinity were identified as the most suitable habitats, suggesting that high salinity might impair their breathing.

Lead Researcher: PhD Student Ben D’Antonio

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Traditional Owners

We express our gratitude to the Malgana Peoples for permitting us to conduct the GAT project in Gathaagudu/Shark Bay

Read more about Malgana traditional owners