This study applied traditional science, with indigenous participation, to investigate the causes and ecological impacts of a mangrove die-off in Boambee Creek, Gumbaynggirr Country, Australia. A severe hail storm defoliated mangroves at two sites in 2021. By 2023, one site recovered but the other remained unhealthy. Chemical contaminants were found in the water, sediment and mangrove roots. The unhealthy site had fewer aerial roots, seeds and seedlings and a lower diversity of invertebrates, confirming a loss of ecological integrity.

This article belongs to the collection: Science in Sea Country.

The proliferation of Centrostephanus rodgersii (long spined sea urchin) contributing to the formation of urchin barrens in New South Wales has prompted debate of whether the current densities are natural or exacerbated through overfishing and climate change. This study braided Traditional Knowledge and habitat mapping data through aerial imagery and underwater visual census imagery to analyse the spatiotemporal dynamic of barrens.

This article belongs to the collection: Science in Sea Country.

Urbanised estuaries are increasingly the focus for restoration structures including oyster reefs. However, human activities have altered these environments, which potentially limit restoration outcomes for nekton communities. We found that seasonal variation in environmental conditions had a greater influence on species distributions than small-scale restoration activities. Although high abundances of harvestable fishes were detected throughout the study and across survey sites. The restoration footprint and environmental conditions affected nekton communities.