Signs of hope for endangered Maugean skate

For the first time in nearly a decade, scientists have recorded an increased presence of young Maugean skates—a ray of hope for the survival of the endangered species.

The research by the University of Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies offers a promising sign for the Maugean skate, a species endemic to the unique environment of Macquarie Harbour.

Data collected between 2021 and September 2024 suggests the population may be stabilizing after a decline reported over a decade leading up to 2020.

“Although the population remains significantly lower than historical levels, catch per unit effort data—a standard measure of relative abundance—shows the skate population has stabilized since 2021 and there has been no overall further decline,” IMAS researcher and Maugean skate captive breeding program leader Professor Jayson Semmens said.

“It takes approximately six years for Maugean skate hatchlings to reach maturity, so while immediate recovery of adult biomass is not expected, the presence of juveniles at a similar proportion relative to adults in the sampling as we were seeing in 2014 is a positive sign. Continued monitoring will be crucial to understanding the long-term trajectory of the species.”

While the skate remains endangered, IMAS researcher Dr. David Moreno said it was too early to predict long-term outcomes and stressed the importance of ongoing research and monitoring to guide effective conservation efforts.

“Additional data are needed to determine whether the observed presence of young skates will lead to a sustained recovery,” Dr. Moreno said. “Updated population models and action plans are needed to ensure the species’ survival in Macquarie Harbour, its last remaining habitat.”

The extended dataset and early signs of stabilization in the population underline the critical need for ongoing support and monitoring efforts, which will be pivotal in guiding effective conservation efforts for the Maugean skate.

“This is science in action,” IMAS Fisheries and Aquaculture Centre Head Professor Sean Tracey said.

“All the work presented to date has been based on the best available information at the time. Funding support from the Tasmanian and Australian governments has helped us improve our understanding of the Maugean skate. As we learn more, our role is to ensure that we’re updating and reassessing that information so that decisions are made based on the best contemporary data.”