Publication Date

Fall 2025

Abstract

The morphologically unique family Syngnathidae faces high levels of anthropogenic pressures in Moreton Bay Marine Park where seagrass beds, habitat to many syngnathid species, are increasingly vulnerable. Among these species, the pipefish Urocampus carinirostris is especially prevalent, making it a strong candidate as an indicator and model species. Threats to seagrass, including pollution and nutrient overload, largely stem from sources on the bay’s western banks. This study aimed to conduct a preliminary investigation of how U. carinirostris size, density, and site-level pipefish diversity compares across locations, with particular attention to differences between eastern and western sites. An exploratory comparison between select past and present length metrics was also conducted. To collect sufficient data, 100-400 m2 transects were surveyed using walking sweep-netting, and pipefish were photographed for later identification and measurement. Results show little difference in abundance or mean body length along the east-west axis, but suggest a potential north-south gradient in mean body size. Although all sites had 100% vegetative cover, pipefish diversity and U. carinirostris mean body length were highest at sites with dense, uniform seagrass, aligning with past research on syngnathid habitat preferences. Urocampus carinirostris density, however, was not reflective of substrate complexity. Comparison with historical data reveals measurable shifts in community-level body length over time, potentially reflecting habitat shifts or disturbance. Overall, this preliminary study found that understanding metrics beyond abundance of U. carinirostris was an important step in learning how this species may work as an indicator of habitat status.

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Life Sciences

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