6 March 2007 15/2007
Rock lobster fishers warned of annual coral spawning risk. The annual coral spawning, at the Abrolhos Islands, is expected to happen in two stages this year presenting risks for caged lobsters being stored in shallow water or lagoons.

Department of Fisheries regional manager for the Mid-West, Greg Finlay said five days of coral spawning was expected to commence this weekend and it would also occur again for about four days from April 9. “The rock lobster fishing season in the Abrolhos doesn’t begin until March 15, but a lot of fishers will be working around the islands in preparation for the season, Mr Finlay said.
“During the second spawning period in April, fishers may have rock lobsters stored in cages in shallow water or lagoons. “The biggest risk for rock lobsters, during the spawning period is the de-oxygenation of the water, where the huge pinkish slicks of coral larvae occur. “Fishers who have rock lobsters held in shallow water or poorly flushed lagoon areas, should be aware of the risks from the mass spawning and take precautions by shifting their catch into
deeper water during the period. “The experts agree that calm weather conditions may also lead to larger slicks, which can cause caged lobsters or fish to suffocate by taking oxygen out of the water.
“If the conditions are rougher, then the spawning slicks are likely to be broken up and will be dispersed more widely.” Mr Finlay said fishers should take special note of making precautions this coming weekend and into the early part of next week (March 10 to March 15).
“Next month, the critical dates for fishers to be aware of coral spawning are April 9 to April 13,” he said. “The annual coral spawning is a vital process of renewal for the reefs we have along Western Australia’s Mid-West and Gascoyne Coasts.”
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