29 January 2003 - The Dragon Search Goes On - News Release from the Goverment of South Australia

Hon JOHN HILL MP
Minister for Environment and Conservation
 

The community is being asked to keep an eye out for one of South Australia’s rarest marine creatures, the Seadragon.

The Minister for Environment and Conservation, John Hill said Dragon Search relies on reports from the public of the two species of Seadragon, with the information used to build up a picture of where these remarkable sea creatures occur.

“Little is known about the distribution, numbers and habits of the Leafy Seadragon and the Weedy Seadragon, which are both found off South Australia, so Dragon Search is collecting data which is contributing to our understanding of our marine environment,” the Minister said.

“Over the past 6 years the partners of the Dragon Search project have conducted a research project on the Seadragons, analysing observations of these uncommon and important creatures. While that work has been completed, the Dragon Search database will continue to operate using sightings from the community.

“Scuba divers, snorkellers and beach combers can contribute to the survey of Seadragons by filling in Sighting Forms on the Dragon Search web-site whenever they see a Seadragon, whether it is alive or dead.

“We need to expand our knowledge of the Seadragons because, like frogs in freshwater, they are good indicators of the health of the marine environment.

“It’s also important that the community is made aware of how delicate these creatures are. Seadragons should not be handled and are very sensitive to human activities which may pollute or disturb their environment.

“We need to protect both types of Seadragon because South Australia’s marine environment is a major stronghold for both species. Finding out where they occur and in what numbers is vital for their conservation. I urge the community to get involved in Dragon Search and contribute to that knowledge.

“The State Government is also working towards the establishment of a Marine Protected Area from Backstairs Passage to the mouth of the River Murray which is intended to provide greater protection for key marine species including the Seadragons. The draft plan for the Encounter Marine Protected Area will be released for public consultation later this year.”