Marine scientists find new mollusc

Josh Jensen, with Liz Harlin, will present stunning footage of marine creatures at Wednesday’s marine biodiversity assessment meeting.

Geoff Potter

A TEAM of marine scientists has chosen Coolum to present the findings of its biodiversity surveys on the shallow reefs off the Sunshine Coast.

The team, specialising in corals, fish and molluscs, has been examining 14 survey sites from Noosa to Caloundra and will reveal all at a free public meeting at Coolum Peregian RSL on Wednesday, from 6pm to 8pm.

Refreshments will be served from 5.45pm.

The scientists recorded 222 species of fish and 144 species of corals and relatives such as soft corals, sea fans and anemones and even found a new species of under-sea animal.

The mollusc, with a ruffled yellow exterior and featuring tiny tentacles and prongs, was photographed in the shallow reefs off Mooloolaba.

The photo was dispatched to mollusc expert Richard Willan, at Northern Territory Museum and Art Gallery, who “jumped up and down” when he saw it.

A specimen must now be collected and studied before it can be identified as a new species and given its formal name.

The scientists found an increase in tropical species and decrease in temperate species in the area, possibly resulting from warming sea temperatures.

But the meeting won’t be all science and dry argument.

Josh Jensen, of Undersea Productions, the face of Australia for The Underwater Channel, will present stunning footage of the fascinating marine creatures encountered during the survey.

Other presenters include long-time coast and coral ecologist Dr Lyndon DeVantier.

Dr DeVantier has worked with international agencies and governments during the past 25 years to improve understanding of the structure and function of coral reefs, and to assist in the development of effective management for their long-term sustainability.

Fish ecologist Dr David Williamson, pictured front page, has worked on the Great Barrier Reef and in South East Asia and the Pacific. His main research area focuses on reef fish communities and larval dispersal.

Inquiries to NICA education officer Catherine Cheung on 0488 967 056 or email cpscheung@generalmail.com. RSVP September 13.