Discover how tropical oyster reefs are reshaping what we know about coastal ecosystems. This presentation highlights new research from Queensland showing that, while oyster reefs have vanished from many tropical regions, some in Australia have survived - and even thrived.
At the centre of the story is Saccostrea lineage B, a newly confirmed reef-building oyster species that helps form complex, living habitats. By comparing reefs at Gladstone, Mapoon, and Proserpine, the research reveals how reef structure, location, and substrate shape the invertebrate communities these ecosystems support.
The findings show that these reefs are not just remnants of the past - they are active, diverse ecosystems with major implications for biodiversity, restoration, and coastal conservation. From larger and more abundant invertebrate communities at Gladstone to the strong ecological role of lower intertidal and shelly habitats, the study offers fresh insight into how tropical oyster reefs function.
This presentation will explore why these overlooked reefs matter, what makes them different, and how they could inform future conservation and restoration strategies in tropical Australia and beyond.
NOTE: THIS EVENT IS ALSO AVAILABLE ONLINE.
Register and the Microsoft Teams meeting link to join online will be provided in your 'Registration Confirmation' email.
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