New approach to restoring submerged habitats 

OzFish Onkaparinga Chapter developed a new approach to restoring submerged wooden habitat in the Onkaparinga estuary. Woody habitat in rivers plays an important role in healthy ecosystems as it provides shelter for juvenile fish and other aquatic species. 

The reintroduction of these safe places for fish is vitally important to support native species and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Onkaparinga River as a popular fishing spot. Over the years, submerged wood has been systematically removed from the river, for a variety of reasons, resulting in habitat degradation. 

The frustas, with their flat tops that sit below the water’s surface, are also proving popular with birds as places to roost at low tide. Species including cormorants, black ducks, and ibis have been seen making use of them.