top of page

Photo: Jennifer Verduin

Establishing genetic guidelines for the effective ecological restoration of seagrass meadows

Critical genetic information underpinning restoration success is lacking ecological restoration of seagrass meadows following their disturbance. In the key seagrass, Posidonia australis, we are addressing the need in a multi-level genetic study to (i) delimit the species boundaries within the P. australis complex, (ii) assess population genetic structure of P. australis at multiple spatial scales (national, among populations, and within meadows), and (iii) conduct a direct molecular assessment of within and among population pollen and seed dispersal. We are working with industry and restoration ecologists to ensure more effective seagrass restoration outcomes.

Australian Research Council - Linkage
Industry partners:

Cockburn Cement Limited

BMT Oceanica

WA Department of Environment and Conservation

 Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority

INVESTIGATORS:

Prof. Gary Kendrick, University of Western Australia
Dr Siegy Krauss,
Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority
Dr Kingsley Dixon, Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority
Dr Michelle Waycott, James Cook University
Dr Elizabeth Sinclair, University of Western Australia
OUTCOMES:

Sinclair EA, Gecan I, Krauss SL, Kendrick GA (2014) Against the odds: complete outcrossing in a monoecious clonal seagrass. Annals of Botany 113: 1185-1196

Sinclair EA, Krauss SL, Anthony JM, Hovey RK, Kendrick GA (2014) The interaction of environment and genetic diversity within meadows of the seagrass Posidonia australis (Posidoniaceae). Marine Ecology Progress Series 506: 87-98

Sinclair EA, Verduin J, Krauss SL, Hardinge J, Anthony JM, Kendrick GA (2013) A genetic assessment of a successful seagrass meadow (Posidonia australis) restoration trial. Ecological Management and Restoration 14: 68-71

bottom of page