Western Port Bryozoan Reefs Research Project – Report 2: reef type and extend

Summary

A unique bryozoan reef biotope has been formally described in Western Port, Victoria, Australia for the first time. The Western Port Bryozoan Reefs Research Project is a multidisciplinary project funded by AGL, The Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority, La Trobe University and Fathom Pacific Pty Ltd. The project is investigating various abiotic and biological aspects of the reefs.

The present report outlines the typology and extent of the reefs, which are two foundational aspects of establishing the management and monitoring requirements of this biotope, which are in the so-called Rhyll Segment of East Arm and within the Western Port Ramsar site but outside any existing Marine Protected Areas. The conservation significance of this biotope is described and the Western Port Bryozoan Reefs Research Project aims to list the biotope under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988.