A Survey of the Macrocystis pyrifera (L.) C. Agardh Stocks on the East Coast of Tasmania (Technical Report 21)

Abstract

A survey of the east Tasmanian coastline from Musselroe Bay to South East Cape reveals 10 km2 of Macrocystis pyrifera (L .) C. Agardh kelp forest. Average harvestable quantities based on Alginates (Australia) Company records (1965-72) show that cropping can expect to yield 2 tonnes hectare or 1.23 kg/m2. This realizes a total of 12,300 tonnes presently available on the East coast of Tasmania. Review of past records show fluctuations in total amounts harvested, due to factors such as high oceanic water temperatures with subsequent low nutrient concentrations and storm damage. If harvesting was to proceed, the beds would have to be closely monitored, indicating the implementation of limits, controls and a concurrent research program.