Blue gropers have been described by divers as the friendliest fish found. They are affectionate, loyal and extremely beautiful. Although, commonly found on Sydney's coasts, not a lot is known of their ecology. There is anecdotal evidence suggesting numbers are declining. Aquatic reserves are one management tool used to protect marine species, but it is not well understood if eastern gropers are adequately protected within small aquatic reserves. SACF is contributing to this project to find out more about these popular icons.

The NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change have received requests from local community and local government to consider the expansion of the Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve, to increase the level of proteciton provided to he the eastern blue groper (the NSW Stage emblem and iconic resident of the Reserve) within the Reserve and to develop a managemetn plan for the Reserve.

In response, DECC, in partnership with organisations including SACF, has developed a multi-component project designed to:

• Determine the habitat and home range requirements and residency time of eastern blue groper;
• determine the connectivity and distance between blue groper habitats both within and adjacent to the Reserve;
• develop a detailed habitat map for the seabed areas of interest.

This proposed research will allow for the determination of the adequacy of the current Reserve with regard ot the protection of blue groper and the habitats identified as important to this iconic species. This research will also inform the development of a management plan for Bronte-Coogee Aquatic Reserve that provides for protection of both residential species and habitats within.