In situ video monitoring of finfish diversity at Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

A long-term video monitoring system at Ningaloo Reef has identified 165 finfish species from 50 families, providing critical baseline data for biodiversity assessment. The Piercam project, operating since 2005, uses remotely installed underwater cameras to continuously record and archive over 10,000 hours of footage, with high visibility of fish activity. This approach enables real-time analysis by students and supports the identification of indicator species and those at risk, such as the vulnerable grey nurse shark (Carcharius taurus). The study underscores the importance of integrated, continuous monitoring for understanding and protecting marine biodiversity hotspots like Ningaloo Reef.

WHISSON, G., & HOSCHKE, A. (2013). In situ video monitoring of finfish diversity at Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia. Galaxea, Journal of Coral Reef Studies, 15(Supplement), 72–78. https://doi.org/10.3755/galaxea.15.72