Publication Date

2-2001

Series Number

No. 146

Publisher

Fisheries Western Australia

City

Perth

Abstract

The Abrolhos coral reefs are the southernmost living reefs in the Indian Ocean. They have a unique assemblage of tropical species of fish, reef corals and other invertebrates, which live in close association with temperate species, particularly of algae, and species endemic to Western Australia. The Abrolhos is the centre of the fishery for the commercially valuable western rock lobster (Panulirus cygnus). Terrestrial flora and fauna of the Abrolhos are relict and provide important reference areas on ecological interactions. Virtually all the islands of the Abrolhos archipelago have sea bird nesting and breeding areas, and populations of some species of seabirds are of international significance. The Abrolhos is the site of a several important historic shipwrecks, including the 17th Century Dutch ships Batavia and Zeewijk. This combination of features makes the Abrolhos a unique area of Western Australia. In recognition of this, the Minister for Primary Industry; Fisheries, has released the plan Management of the Houtman Abrolhos System, following a process of public consultation.

Number of Pages

93

Keywords

Houtman Abrolhos Islands -Western Australia, Environment management, Islands, Tourist trade, Policies.

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