Victorian Marine Science Consortium
Corey is studying the temporal and spatial population structure in arrow squid Nototodarus gouldi, of south eastern Australia.
The arrow squid forms the primary catch of the Southern Squid Jig Fishery (SSJF) and are important for not only providing a role within trophic levels, but also as a resource commodity to the community. Over recent years, research on arrow squid has advanced; however, it highlighted the need for more detailed research concerning the effect environmental conditions has on squid populations. As the SSJF encompasses waters of South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania, the dynamic influence of their environment and oceanographic conditions is very important when studying population dynamics. All areas are subjected to measurable differences in temperature and productivity, both of which are thought to be extremely important in defining population characteristics. Other areas that will be researched include identifying populations and cohorts by applying microchemistry and shape analysis techniques to their statoliths (balance bones), determining the selectivity of fishing gears (jig and trawl), and determining the effect climate change may have on future populations.
Corey commenced his PhD project through the University of Tasmania (UTAS), in conjunction with the Marine and Freshwater Fisheries Research Institute (MAFFRI), in early 2007. Corey's supervisor is Dr George Jackson (UTAS); co-supervisors are Mr Terry Walker (MAFFRI), and Dr David Smith (CSIRO).
Corey is pictured with The Hon. Gavin Jennings MLC, Minister for Environment and Climate Change,
following the award presentation on 29 April 2008