Appendix 1 – Information log for Fish and Flows in the Northern Basin project General – Northern Basin Key words Summary of relevance to project Type of information source Geographic area(s) Merit of information Reference(s) BASK categorisation NSW Fisheries Freshwater Fish Research Database NSW DPI Freshwater Fish Research Database, including primary catch data from the Barwon-Darling. Data is collated from a range of sources, (dates range from 1994 to 2013). Includes coordinate data for catch/observation information. Varies depending on source data (some some grey literature), reproducible evolving science MDB (NSW), NSW - other Most comprehensive body of information regarding fish species presence/absence in NSW (including unpublished data). Potential limitations include differences between sampling/monitoring approaches from source programs. Does not include historical records (pre 1994) and does not include Queensland sampling data. NSW DPI, 2013a 2-B1 (Adequate) Queensland DRNM sampling databases Advice from Queensland NRM agencies (Hutchison, pers. comm.) suggests there are a range of existing databases and other sources including relevant data on fish in Queensland MDB catchments. There does not currently appear to be a centralised information source for fish survey data in Queensland and information is handled/owned by a number of government and non-government sources. Varies depending on source data (some some grey literature), reproducible evolving science MDB (QLD) NSW DPI access to databases for the purposes of this project is likely to be variable, depending on the type of information and system under consideration. A database managed by DSITIA may be the most readily accessible under project time frames. Subject to project time and resources, NSW DPI will also follow up with other suggested Queensland contacts to clarify access to relevant information. Hutchison pers. comm. 2-B1 (Adequate) Queensland key fish assets Key fish assets in the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin - identified during Basin Plan development. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (QLD) Supplementary information. May be particularly useful as a starting point for reach prioritisation for the Queensland streams. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since work was undertaken) and potentially relevant to a number of Northern Basin catchments. Department of Environment pers. comm. 3-B1 (Borderline) reviewed, reviewed,
Distribution of fish in NSW Survey of distribution of fish species in NSW (including NSW and ACT portions of the Murray and Darling drainage basins). Information is amalgamated from a number of sources, including museum records and surveys. Covers period from 1960 to 1983. Does not attempt to compare relative abundance across regions. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (general) Useful supplementary source for of species presence/absence. Relatively dated (more than twenty years since publication) and does not provide abundance information. Not concerned with flow-ecology relationships. Llewellyn, 1983 3-B1 (Borderline) Historical evidence of native fish in the Murray-Darling Basin Collects, collates and reports observations of native fish in the Murray-Darling Basin from diaries of early explorers and settlers (including the Balonne, Barwon, Macquarie, Castlereagh, Darling, Lachlan, Macquarie, Namoi and Peel rivers). Peer-reviewed, speculation MDB (general) Useful supplementary source for historical records. Non-comprehensive and not based on scientific observations. Scott, 2005 2-C1 (Borderline) Freshwater fishes of north-eastern Australia Provides information on 79 fish species (primary focus on easterly flowing coastal rivers of Queensland and northern NSW), including distribution patterns and abundance, habitat requirements and biology. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (QLD), MDB (Northern NSW), outside MDB Background/secondary source for some northern systems. Not primarily concerned with Murray-Darling Basin drainage species. Pusey et al, 2004 2-B1 (Adequate) Threatened and potentially threatened freshwater fishes of coastal NSW and the Murray-Darling Basin Reviews biological and ecological characteristics and conservation status of thirty species of threatened and potentially threatened freshwater fishes in rivers and streams of coastal NSW and the Murray-Darling Basin. Information from NSW Rivers Survey (1997) and Australian Museum Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (NSW) Background/secondary source for threatened species in NSW. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication) and includes Basin species. Morris et al, 2001 3-B1 (Borderline)
records, NSW fisheries and independent consulting services and commercial catch records. Environmental flows for fish in the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin Includes information on Border Rivers, Moonie River, Condamine-Culgoa, Warrego and Paroo Rivers. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (QLD) Contextual/background information. Moffatt, 1998 2-B1 (Adequate) Key environmental assets Information on NSW DPI key fish assets information Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (NSW), NSW (other) Contextual/background information. Gilligan, unpublished 3-B1 (Borderline) Fishway options for weirs of the Northern Basin NSW DPI report identifying priority sites for improved fish passage in the northern MDB. Includes information on migratory species of the Northern MDB (data from MDBA SRA to 2009, Darling and Warrego Rivers), Condamine (Moffatt, pers. comm.), Charlies Creek (M Hutchinson, pers. comm.) and NSW DPI Freshwater Fish Research Database. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (NSW - North), MDB (QLD) Contextual/background information. Relatively recent information, including summary of unpublished sampling records. Nichols et al, 2012 3-B1 (Borderline) Fish and fish habitat of the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin Provides information on fish and habitat in the Queensland MDB (focus on Darling River system). Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (QLD) Contextual/background information. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication). Moffatt and Voller, 2002 3-B1 (Borderline)
Integrated Monitoring of Environmental Flows (IMEF) - river flows and fish Part of NSW IMEF project Gwydir, Hunter, Lachlan, Macquarie, Murrumbidgee and Namoi Rivers). Includes fish sampling conducted under the IMEF program (study period 1999 to 2002). Included thirteen sites on the upper, mid and lower Gwydir. Results are included in the NSW Freshwater Fish Research Database. The project also considered effects of flooding on permanently inundated wetlands in the Gwydir, Namoi and Lachlan. However, there are some limitations for sampling data in this part of the project (annual sampling not possible in all wetlands and lack of major floods during the sampling period (Growns and Gehrke, 2005; p.23). Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB – Gwydir, Lachlan, Macquarie, and Namoi. Outside MDB – Hunter River Supplementary information. Includes primary sampling information on fish species present and considers responses to flow (such as improved protection of low-flow habitats, wetland replenishment and rehabilitation of fish communities). Relatively dated (date of publication more than 10 years ago in some cases) and limitations with some sampling data. Growns et al, 2001a, 2001b; Growns and Gehrke, 2005. 3-B1 (Borderline) Barwon-Darling Key words Summary of relevance to project Type of information source Geographic area(s) Merit of information Reference(s) BASK categorisation Fish in the Assessment of fish communities in Barwon-Darling River (including tributaries). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (BD) Contextual/background information. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication). Harris, 1995 2-B1 (Adequate) MDBA environmental water requirements reports MDBA technical reports on environmental water requirements for Barwon-Darling (upstream of Menindee Lakes) and Lower (Menindee Lakes, Anabranch Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (BD, Darling) Context/background – outline existing environmental water requirements for the Barwon-Darling and Lower Darling systems, including knowledge base for fish. MDBA, 2012a, and 2012b 3-B1 (Borderline) Darling
Focuses on Barwon-Darling River upstream of Menindee Lakes and Barwon River to its upstream extent at Barwon/Macintyre junction (main stem). Fish in the Darling system Outline of fish species in the River system Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (Darling) Supplementary information. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication) and does not apply to Barwon system. Gehrke and Harris, 2004 2-B1 (Adequate) Fish habitat assemblage relationships Provides a framework for assessing fish habitat in large lowland rivers of eastern Australia to determine associations in the and Paroo rivers. Also reports on condition of fish habitat and fish assemblages in these rivers. Identifies fish species present in the (Boys et al, 2005). Proposes method for assessing fish-habitat assemblages in Barwon-Darling River at multiple scales (five ‘river zones’ between Goondiwindi and Wentworth) and sampling of three river reaches within each zone (12 in all) (mesohabitat, sites, zones and river system). One-off sampling conducted between 2001 and 2002. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (BD, Paroo) Supplementary information. Relatively recent information (less than 10 years than publication in most cases) and applies to both Barwon and Darling systems. Boys et al, 2005; Boys and Thoms, 2006; Boys, 2007; Boys et al, 2013. 2-B1 (Adequate) The influence of changes to river hydrology on freshwater fish in regulated rivers of Examines fish assemblage structure and abundances of individual fish species in six regulated rivers in the Murray-Darling Basin (Barwon-Darling, Gwydir, Lachlan, Namoi, Macquarie Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (BD, Gwydir, Namoi, Macquarie, other) Supplementary information. Does not include sampling information post 2002. Growns, 2008 2-B1 (Adequate)
the Murray-Darling Basin and Murrumbidgee) in response to hydrological change. Sampling conducted in 1999/2000, 2001/2001 and 2001/2002. Lowland Darling Aquatic Ecological Community Ecological community listed as endangered in NSW, including 21 native fish species. Records based on Australian Museum and literature records (notes data deficient for many areas of Darling River drainages). Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (Darling) Supplementary information. Relatively recent information (less than 10 years since publication). NSW DPI, 2007; Fisheries Scientific Committee, undated. 3-B1 (Borderline) Fish assemblages, abundance and size (Barwon and Macintyre Rivers). Examines fish assemblage structure, abundance and size frequency and hydrology across two sampling occasions and four reaches in the Macintyre and Barwon river catchments. Provides baseline data on distribution, size structure and assemblage structure. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (Barwon, BR) Supplementary information, confined to Barwon River. Balcombe et al, 2010 2-B1 (Adequate) Fish passage – River Assesses barriers and priorities for improved fish passage in the system. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (Darling) Supplementary information/background. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication). Cooney, 1994 3-B1 (Borderline) Golden Perch – spawning Assesses reproductive ecology of golden perch at Menindee Lakes, Darling River. Identifies lower spawning temperatures for Golden Perch (<18.8°C), spawning occurrence at all times of the year and spawning in absence of floods. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (Darling) Supplementary information/background to inform development of guilds and conceptual models. Ebner et al, 2009 3-B1 (Borderline)
Fish assemblages and responses to flow in the Moonie, Weir and Macintyre/Barwon Rivers Study compares fish assemblages at 15 waterholes (floodplain and in-channel) within the Macintyre-Balonne River (representative of regulated channel and floodplain sites) and Moonie and Weir Rivers (representative of smaller, unregulated rivers). Study period 2002-2003. Also recorded physical waterhole and floodplain variables. Identifies species presence, relative abundance and distribution, catch per unit effort and species richness. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (BR – Moonie, Weir and Macintyre) and BD (lower Barwon). Supplementary information. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since publication), including results of sampling in the catchment and information on species present and response to flows. Balcombe et al, 2011a 2-B1 (Adequate) Anabranches, nutrient cycling and connectivity in the Macintyre River McGinness et al, 2002 provides data on carbon pools present in the Macintyre River (15.8km reach between Goondiwindi and Boomi) and implications of changing hydrological connectivity for carbon cycling from anabranch channels to the main system. Thoms et al, 2005 considers influence of water resources development on the character of floodplain-river fragmentation in the Macintyre River. Analyses impacts on potential supply of dissolved carbon from anabranch channels over a 98 year period. Used to inform MDBA EWR assessment for Lower Border Rivers (nutrient cycling). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MD (BR – Macintyre) Supplementary information regarding nutrient cycling (particularly relevant to MDBA EWR assessment for the Lower Border Rivers). Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication for McGinness et al, 2002) and not directly focused on fish-flow relationships. McGinness et al, 2002; Thoms et al, 2005 2-B1 (Adequate) Golden Perch: spawning in the Border Rivers Study undertaken as part of Queensland’s Environmental Flows Assessment Program to investigate Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (BR – Macintyre and Weir) Supplementary information. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since publication) and includes DERM, 2010b 3-B1 (Borderline)
environmental conditions (flow triggers and temperature) for Golden Perch (Weir and Macintyre Rivers). Suggests that Golden Perch requires temperatures >23°C to spawn, coupled with elevated flows (post winter). However, results from the Macintyre also suggest continued flows may reduce spawning triggers and limit availability of larval food supplies. information/analysis on relationships between fish and flow. Single species focus (Golden Perch). Does not identify if overbank/flood flows are needed for population viability, or if Golden Perch can spawn under no-flow conditions. Ecosystem responses to Carp control Study investigating ecosystem responses to Carp control in Condamine and Macintyre Rivers in Queensland, including monitoring of fish response variables. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (CB – Condamine and BR – Macintyre) Supplementary information to inform identification of Carp hotspots in Northern Basin. Relatively recent work and includes native-Carp interactions. Location specific (Condamine and Macintyre). Gehrke et al, 2010 3-B1 (Borderline) Fish monitoring at Pindari Dam Four year study undertaken by University of New England and NSW Office of Water to ‘establish temporal and spatial patterns in the distribution of fish early life history stages between the Severn, Mole and Macintyre rivers’. Sampling between 2005 and 2009 to establish environmental factors associated with distribution patterns and timing of spawning activity between rivers and seasons. Further work, including surveys of flows, water quality, water temperature and stream bank and bed stability was undertaken by the NSW Office of Water to assess impacts of the 2012 Pindari Stimulus Flow Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDBA (BR – Severn, Mole and Macintyre) Supplementary information, including sampling data. Includes flow-ecology relationships and relatively recent work. Location specific. Wilson and Ellison, 2010; Foster, 2012. 2-B1 (Adequate)
catchment) completed by NSW DPI for Border Rivers Gwydir Catchment Management Authority. Identifies fish species present in the Horton River (based on information from NSW Freshwater Fish Research Database). Also applies a Decision Support System (DSS) developed by NSW to categorise river management units and prioritise habitat features and overall reach condition. reproducible science Fish Research Database. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since publication), including information on species present and key habitat features (potentially informing selection of priority reaches for the Project). Associated with a specific location (Horton River) and does not directly focus on flow-ecology relationships. Catfish reproductive biology Research on the biology of the Freshwater Catfish in the Gwydir river (particularly focusing on Copeton Dam impacts). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science Background/supplementary information on flow requirements for Freshwater Catfish in the Gwydir system. Relatively dated (date of publication more than 10 years ago) and location/species specific. Davis, 1975, 1977a, 1977b, 1977c 2-B1 (Borderline) Oral history Study undertaken by NSW Fisheries on ecological changes to fish and fish habitat of the Gwydir River and local community opinions of those changes, using an oral history methodology. Focus on main channels below Copeton Dam. Grey literature, scientific judgement Supplementary/background information. Relatively dated (date of publication more than 10 years ago) and non-science information. Copeland et al, 2003, 2003 3-C1 (Borderline) Commonwealth Environmental Water Office (CEWO) monitoring and evaluation – Gwydir river program The CEWO has established a Intervention Monitoring project in seven key areas, including the Gwydir river system. Monitoring in the Gwydir is being led by Eco Logical and the University of New England. Monitoring indicators include fish populations at Carole Creek and and Fish movement at Carole Grey literature, reproducible evolving science Supplementary information. Relatively recent and includes primary data (research undertaken within the last 10 years). Results may not be available under project time frames. CEWO, 2014; Department of Environment pers. comm. 3-B1 (Borderline) MDB-
Gwydir fish passage Study to identify barriers to fish passage in the Gwydir catchment and Gingham Watercourse. Also identifies a general decline in native fish populations for the Gwydir over the last thirty years, with exotic species (particularly Carp and Gambusia) now dominating floodplain habitats. Suggests most native species still occur in the middle Gwydir catchment. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (Gwydir) Supplementary information. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication) and focuses on fish movement. Mallen-Cooper, 2000 3-B1 (Borderline) Fish – Lower Gwydir floodplain Identifies fish present on the Lower Gwydir floodplain. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (Gwydir) Supplementary information. Relatively dated material (more than 10 years since publication). Siebentritt, 1999 3-B1 (Borderline) Namoi Key words Summary of relevance to project Type of information source Geographic area(s) Merit of information Reference(s) BASK categorisation EWR Report MDBA technical report on environmental water requirements for Lower Namoi River (in-channel flows). Notes information on fish populations from SRA1, earlier work by CRC for Freshwater Ecology/NSW Fisheries (Thoms et al, 1999) and information on Murray Cod populations (National Murray Cod Recovery Team, 2010). Notes that ‘flow indicators described herein for the in-channel flows related to bench inundation as well as high flow elements of the flow regime primarily based on the water requirements of flood dependent Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (Lower Namoi) Context/background – outlines existing environmental water requirements for the Lower Namoi region, including knowledge base for fish recruitment and movement. MDBA, 2012g 3-B1 (Borderline)
vegetation communities are expected to be sufficient to support life-cycle and habitat requirements of native fish including provision of cues for spawning and migration and access to food sources’ (p.20). pollution (Keepit Dam) Research investigating impacts of thermal pollution on fish (with a particular focus on releases from Keepit Dam). Peer review, reproducible evolving science MDB (Namoi – Keepit Dam) Supplementary/background information. Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication). May be particularly relevant for development of conceptual models for functional groups in the system. Preece and Jones, 2002; Boys et al, 2009; NSW DPI, 2012c; Rolls et al, 2013 2-B1 (Adequate) Namoi River Demonstration Reach Demonstration reach (120 km of Namoi River between Boggabri and Narrabri Creek) established 2007. Includes data collection by anglers. Monitoring focuses on long-term condition of fish populations and intervention-based monitoring based on major fish passage activities. NSW DPI Fisheries have also undertaken habitat mapping of some parts of the Demonstration Reach. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (Namoi) Supplementary information. Includes primary monitoring information and habitat mapping. Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication). Fish Habitat Network, undated; NSW DPI, 2012a. 3-B1 (Borderline) Namoi Valley environmental scan Developed to support Namoi River management plan (literature review). Notes research undertaken under NSW Rivers Survey, Gehrke and Harris 1997 and earlier NSW fisheries surveys in Peel River (Bishop and Harris, 1990). Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (Namoi) Background/contextual information. No new information and relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication). Thoms et al, 1999 3-B1 (Borderline)
Impacts of irrigation pumps Research on irrigation pump impacts on riverine fish (over a two year period in the Namoi River). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (Namoi) Background/contextual information. Relatively recent but not specifically focused on fish EWR requirements. Baumgartner et al, 2011 2-B1 (Adequate) Barriers to fish passage Project to assess barriers to fish passage in the Namoi catchment (funded by Namoi Catchment Management Authority). Includes details on freshwater finfish species present in the catchment. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (Namoi) Supplementary information. Relatively recent (date of publication less than 10 years ago) and potentially relevant to EWR requirements and habitat mapping for the system. NSW DPI, 2006 3-B1 (Borderline) Key Fish Habitat mapping NSW DPI key fish habitats mapped in the Namoi region, including Chaffey Dam reservoir, Peel River upstream of Chaffey Dam and upstream tributaries and Peel River downstream of the dam. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science Peel Supplementary information – includes primary data directly relevant to determination of flow requirements. Confined to specific locations. NSW DPI, 2012a 3-B1 (Borderline) Integrated Monitoring of Environmental Flows (IMEF) program Monitoring program managed by NSW Office of Water (NOW). Includes assessment of environmental flow rules developed for the Regulated Peel River (focus on aquatic macroinvertebrates and benthic periphyton) and project to assess impacts of environmental flows on larval fish in regulated rivers (Gwydir and Namoi catchments). Grey literature, reproducible evolving science Peel Supplementary information. Relatively recent work including primary data (less than 10 years since publication) and ecology-flow focus. Confined to a specific location (regulated Peel River). NSW DPI, 2012b 3-B1 (Borderline) Namoi wetland assessment and prioritisation project Wetland assessment and prioritisation project within the Namoi catchment. Prioritisation process includes presence of threatened species and Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB-Namoi Background/contextual information. Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication) but does not include new Eco-logical Australia, 2008 3-B1 (Borderline)
threatening processes (data on fish from NSW Freshwater Fish Research Database). information and not specifically focused on fish. Ecological values of the Peel River Background (using available information and regional expert knowledge) on ecological features of the regulated Peel River to support development of environmental water and access rules under sharing plans for the Peel Regulated Water Source. Includes fish as an ‘ecological feature’ (including general commentary on significance, conservation status, location, likely ecological importance, likely flow response and relevant flow parameters. Also identifies known and expected native fish and alien fish species of the regulated Namoi River, including special flow requirements and reasons for decline. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB – Namoi (Peel River) Background/contextual information. Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication) and provides a synthesis of fish and flow requirements for the Peel system and Namoi more broadly. Does not include new information and information may be subjective/not quantified in some instances. Foster and Lewis, 2009 3-B1 (Borderline) Geomorphic features of the Lower Namoi floodplain Study using the River styles framework to assess geomorphic features of the Lower Namoi floodplain, including analysis of cross-sections at a number of representative sites. Identifies benches, bars and low flow channel features. Used to inform MDBA flow indicator for longitudinal Grey literature, reproducible evolving science Namoi (Lower) Background/contextual information (informed development of flow indicator for longitudinal connectivity in the Namoi). Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication) and not specifically focused on fish. Lampert and Short, 2004 3-B1 (Borderline)
connectivity in the Lower Namoi (Murray-Darling Basin Authority, 2012g; p.18). Inundation of channel and floodplain features in the Lower Namoi system Assessment of commence-to flow levels of wetlands and in-channel features of the lower Namoi Valley, including surveys of key locations (downstream of Duncan’s Junction, Bugilbone, Goangara and downstream of Goangara) to identify benches and anabranch levels. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB – Namoi (Lower) Background/contextual information (informed development of flow indicator for bench inundation in the Namoi). Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication) and not specifically focused on fish. Foster, 1999 3-B1 (Borderline) Macquarie Key words Summary of relevance to project Type of information source Geographic area(s) Merit of information Reference(s) BASK categorisation EWR Report MDBA technical report for Macquarie Marshes. Does not include specific flow indicators for fish recruitment or movement. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB – Macquarie Marshes Context/background – outline existing environmental water requirements for the Macquarie Marshes. MDBA, 2012h 3-B1 (Borderline) Habitat mapping – Macquarie River Habitat mapping undertaken by NSW DPI on 391 kilometres of the Macquarie River (Burrendong Dam to Marebone weir) for RiverSmart Australia (funded by Central West Catchment Management Authority and MDBA Native Fish Strategy). Includes consideration of historical sources to inform assessment of condition. Identifies 20 ‘Management Reaches’ for the study area. Grey literature, reproducible evolving science River (Burrendong Dam to Marebone Weir) Key supplementary information to be used in conjunction with NSW Freshwater Fish Research Database. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since publication). Information on species present and key habitat features (potential to inform selection of priority reaches for the Project). Associated with a specific location (Macquarie River) but does not directly focus on flow-ecology relationships. NSW DPI, 2011. 3-B1 (Borderline)
Macquarie Marshes –fish research Research undertaken by UNSW. Includes work on role of small environmental flows, drought and the role of refugia for freshwater fish in the Macquarie Marshes (Rayner et al, 2009), climate change adaptation (including summary of fish species present and potential impacts of climate change) (Jenkins et al, 2012) responses of native and alien fish species to floodplain inundation (Rayner et al, 2014). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB - Macquarie Marshes Supplementary information. Includes primary data and scientific analysis (peer reviewed). Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication) and includes ecology-flow relationships (including native and alien species). Rayner et al, 2009; Jenkins et al, 2012; Rayner et al, 2014 2-B1 (Adequate) Spatial and temporal variation in the composition of riverine fish communities Research on temporal and spatial variability in fish community structure in Macquarie and Namoi Rivers. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB - Macquarie Marshes, Namoi Supplementary information, including primary data and scientific analysis (peer reviewed). Relatively recent (although some work more than 10 years since publication). Some focus on ecology-flow relationships. Growns et al, 2003; Growns et al, 2006 2-B1 (Adequate) Macquarie Marshes Adaptive Environmental Management Plan Plan developed under the NSW Wetland Recovery Program, including definition of ecological assets and values, ecological outcomes and water requirements. A number of surveys on fish communities and water quality were undertaken to support development of the plan (Jenkins et al, 2004; Jenkins and Wolfenden, 2006; Jenkins et al, 2008). Grey literature/peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science Marshes Supplementary information, including some primary data and scientific analysis. Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication). Some focus on ecology-flow relationships. Jenkins et al, 2004; Jenkins and Wolfenden, 2006; Jenkins et al, 2008; DECCW, 2010. 3-B1 (Borderline) (grey literature), (Adequate) (peer reviewed) Early surveys Brock (1998) provides an overview of physical environment of Macquarie Marshes, including fish species Grey literature/peer reviewed, Marshes Contextual/background information. Does not include primary data and relatively Swales, 1994; Swales and 3-B1 (Borderline)
recorded in the area (p.86). Notes previous surveys by Swales and Curran (1995) and Swales (1994). reproducible evolving science dated (more than 10 years since publication). Curran, 1995; Brock, 1998 Other Northern systems (within and outside MDB) Key words Summary of relevance to project Type of information source Geographic area(s) Merit of information Reference(s) BASK categorisation Moonie and Warrego Comparison of productivity of two fish species (Australian Smelt and Macquarie Perch) in Moonie and Warrego rivers. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (Moonie and Warrego) Background/contextual information (relatively recent) – potential baseline information for fish condition. Balcombe et al, 2010 2-B1 (Adequate) Moonie Assessment of fish responses to low flow at Moonie River and Cooper Creek. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (Moonie) Background/contextual information (relatively recent) – potential baseline information for fish condition. Balcombe and Sternberg, 2012 2-B1 (Adequate) Genetic diversity, Moonie Study of gene flow for Golden Perch and Freshwater Catfish and a crustacean (Macrobrachium australiense) in Moonie River catchment. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (Moonie) Background/contextual information (relatively recent) – potential baseline information for fish condition. Huey et al, 2011 2-B1 (Adequate) Fish condition/diet, movement and population genetics: Moonie River Study undertaken as part of Queensland’s Environmental Flows Assessment Program. Considers fish condition, primary production and diet in the Moonie (Bony Herring and Golden Perch). Results suggest both species shift from high quality to low quality food sources during prolonged isolation of waterholes. Movement component (study period 2007 to 2009) involved acoustic tagging of Bony Herring, Golden Perch, Grey literature, reproducible evolving science MDB (BR – Moonie) Supplementary information. Recently recent work (less than 10 years since publication), including primary information relating fish responses to flow, with a focus on movement. Location-specific (Moonie River). DERM, 2010a 3-B1 (Borderline)
Freshwater Catfish and Spangled Perch, with recording stations along an 85 km reach of the Moonie River. Golden Perch and Spangled Perch identified as more likely to move (most within a 20-30km stretch, but some ranging over 70km within a season). Bony Herring and Freshwater Catfish were more likely to remain in the same waterhole. Research also suggests the majority of fish move on the first flow, regardless the magnitude of the event. Other arid-zone systems Research on fish-flow relationships in arid zone rivers (primarily Coopers Creek, outside MDB). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science Outside MDB Contextual/background information. Relatively recent work and with potential application to the MDB. However, it has been suggested that results from Coopers Creek and other arid zone systems are not always relevant to Northern MDB catchments (e.g. Woods et al, 2012). Arthington et al, 2005; Balcombe et al, 2005; Balcombe et al, 2007; Balcombe and Arthington, 2009; Kerezsy et al, 2011; Kerezsy et al, 2014 2-B1 (Adequate) Environmental risk assessment – Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine catchments Underpinning environmental assessments for review of the Queensland Water Resource (Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine) Plan 2003. Identifies nine ‘prioritised assets’, including flow spawning fish species, absence of exotic fish species and migratory fish species (DSITIA, 2013a; pp.6-7). Uses ‘meta-population’ models for Golden Perch in each Grey literature (including some peer review through independent science review), reproducible evolving science MDB (Warrego, Paroo), outside MDB Supplementary information. Relatively recent information (less than 10 years since date of publication) and includes focus on fish-flow relationships species, migratory fish and invasive species). Also includes use of conceptual models based on hydrology and biological information to assess relative impacts of different water regime scenarios. Location-specific (Warrego and DSITIA, 2013a, 2013b, 2013c, 2013d 3-B1 (Borderline)
catchment area based on hydrology and biological information to ‘integrate eco-hydraulic habitat elements’ including first post-winter flows, waterhole persistence and size, waterhole connectivity and waterhole pumping (DSTIA, 2013d; p.24). Golden Perch are also used as an indicator of migratory fish species, with a minimum event duration that would allow migration between habitats as eight days (DSITA, 2013d; p.30). Thresholds of concern for periods of time between migratory opportunities are identified (<4 years low risk, 4-10 years moderate risk and >10 years as high risk (DSITA, 2013d; p.31). Rules for absence of exotic fish species (Carp) are based on spawning and recruitment through overbank flows and dispersal of recruitments (flows >2 ML/day within 12 months of an overbank event) (DSITIA, 2013d; p.41). Paroo catchments). Excludes some fish species (such as Carp Gudgeon, Rainbowfish, Desert Rainbowfish and Purple Spotted Gudgeon) due to lack of knowledge on flow requirements (DSITA, 2013b; pp.51, 53, 54). Australian Smelt also excluded due to ‘lack of evidence for a specific flow requirement’ (DSITIA, 2013b; p.56). Functional groups (fish-flow relationships) - Recruitment Key words Summary of relevance to project Type of information source Geographic area(s) Merit of information Reference(s) BASK categorisation Flood-recruitment model Junk et al (1989) ‘flood-pulse concept’ – annual inundation as principal driving force responsible for the existence, productivity and interactions of the major biota in systems’. Lake (1967) Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (general) Background/contextual information. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication. Lake 1967; Cadwallader and Lawrence 1990; Gehrke et al, 1995; 2-B1 (Adequate)
emphasised the role of flooding in the breeding history of inland fish. Assumption that flooding is essential for recruitment (Cadwallader and Lawrence 1990; Gehrke et al, 1995; Humphries 1995) (summarised in Graham and Harris, 2005; pp.5-6). Humphries 1995 Low flow recruitment hypothesis Suggests Golden and Silver Perch spawn and recruit during both flows and floods. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (Southern) Background/contextual information. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication). Harris and Gehrke, 1994. 2-B1 (Adequate) Low flow recruitment hypothesis Questions importance of flooding and floodplain to all MDB fishes – emphasise significance of in-channel habitats and flow variability (low flow recruitment hypothesis). Suggests three life history models based on spawning timing, style and development intervals of larvae. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (general) Background/contextual information. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication). Humphries et al, 1999 2-B1 (Adequate) Refined low flow recruitment hypothesis Classified native fish of the MDB into reproductive guilds based on importance of floods to spawning. Identify species as ‘flood-dependent’, ‘flood-triggered spawning migration’ or non-flood dependent (instead relating to availability of suitable habitat). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB – general Background/contextual information. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication.) Schiller and Harris, 2001 2-B1 (Adequate) Refined low flow recruitment hypothesis Questions flood-recruitment/flood pulse model for Golden and Silver Perch (Murray River and other sites in the MBD). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (South) Background/contextual information. Relatively dated (more than 10 years since publication). Mallen-Cooper and Stuart, 2003 2-B1 (Adequate)
functional trait components of Australian river basins. Life history/reproductive characteristics and habitat use Research on fish assemblage structures, microhabitat cover and fish-habitat associations (in-channel) in response to low and high flow events in the lower River Murray. Classifies fish based on body size and as either periodic, opportunistic or equilibrium strategists based on life history traits. Identifies small-bodied fish as opportunistic or equilibrium strategists: abundant in low flows and associated with submerged macrophytes, but absent/less abundant after flooding and periodic strategists (such as Golden Perch). Peer-reviewed, reproducible evolving science MBD-South Supplementary information. Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication) and includes specific focus on flow-ecology relationships. Based in the Southern Basin – may require amendment for use in the North. Bice et al, 2013 2-B1 (Adequate) Functional groups (fish-flow relationships) – Recruitment and Movement Key words Summary of relevance to project Type of information source Geographic area(s) Merit of information Reference(s) BASK categorisation Reproductive and movement guild (Baumgartner’s model) – Edward Wakool Development of flow guilds for fish community in the Edward-Wakool system based on reproductive (spawning and recruitment) and movement of fish species. Identifies four guilds. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (South) Key information. Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication). Southern Basin focus (Edward-Wakool system) – may require review to ensure Northern Basin species needs are addressed (as per NSW Department of Primary Industries, 2013b). Does not include ‘eco-hydraulic’ guilds (Mallen-Cooper and Zampatti, in press). Baumgartner et al, 2013 2-B1 (Adequate)
distribution and abundance abundance data for Hypseleotris galii in Mary and Albert rivers, South-East Queensland. and not specifically concerned with recruitment/flow relationships. Fish recruitment and productivity model – Ovens river Tests models of fish recruitment and productivity in floodplain rivers based on growth during early life stages of a common, short-lived fish (Australian smelt) in the Ovens river. Uses a mixed-effect linear modelling approach. Peer-reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (South – Ovens) Key information to be considered for conceptual models. Relatively recent information (less than 10 years since publication) and includes a focus on fish recruitment and productivity. Southern Basin focus (may require modification for the North). Tonkin et al, 2011 2-B1 (Adequate) Multi-response artificial neural network: spatial and temporal variation for fish assemblages in Eastern Australia. Assesses multi-scale influences of environmental and hydrological features of the riverine landscape on spatial and temporal variation in fish assemblages in Eastern Australia. Models species presence-absence, relative abundance and relative biomass for fish assemblages in the Mary River (South-East Queensland) using a multi-response artificial neural network. Peer-reviewed, reproducible evolving science Australia (outside MDB) Supplementary/background information. Relatively recent (less than10 years since publication). Outside the MDB and does not include a specific focus on flows and recruitment/movement. Kennard et al, 2007 2-B1 (Adequate) Bayesian models – species occurrence in catchment Uses a Bayesian, model-averaged, binomial regression to predict probabilities of occurrence for 13 fish species (including five non-native species) based on hydrologic variables (heavily regulated, moderately regulated and unregulated for Broken and Boosey Creeks (Goulburn-Broken catchment). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (South) Supplementary/background information. Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication). Southern Basin focus (may require modification for application in the Northern Basin) and does not focus on recruitment. Bond et al, 2010 2-B1 (Adequate)
Bayesian network models Provides an environmental flow Bayesian Network model linking hydrological components (timing, magnitude, frequency and duration) to predict spawning and recruitment for Australian Grayling and River Blackfish (La Trobe River, Victoria). Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (South) Key information to be considered in development of conceptual models. Includes a specific focus on flows and recruitment and considered in development of BEWS. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since publication). Southern Basin focus (may require amendment for application in the North) and does not include movement focus. Shenton et al, 2010 2-B1 (Adequate) Bayesian network models Uses Bayesian Network Modelling for dry season flows and biology of Barramundi and Sooty Grunter, Daly River, Northern Territory. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science Australia (outside MDB) Key information to be considered in development of conceptual models. Includes a specific focus on flows and recruitment and considered in development of BEWS. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since publication). Developed outside the MDB and focuses on two specific species. Chan et al, 2012 2-B1 (Adequate) Bayesian network models – including Carp responses to flow Uses Bayesian Belief Network Decision Support Tool for watering wetlands to maximise native fish outcomes, based on modelled abundance, population structure and fish condition for Carp, Carp Gudgeon, Australian Smelt and Golden Perch. Species were selected as they ‘represent a diversity of life history traits’ and have sufficient ecological knowledge to construct and populate the Bayesian network model. Model validation based on data from Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (South) Key information to be considered in development of conceptual models. Includes a specific focus on flow and relationships. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since publication). Southern Basin focus (may require amendment for application in the North) and does not include movement focus. Largely Murray Valley specific and only operates at the scale of an individual wetland. Only predicts responses to single watering events. Gawne et al, 2012; Beesley et al, 2011 2-B1 (Adequate)
River Murray wetlands (survey period 2008 and 2009, Beesley et al, 2011). Adopted for use in management of Coonacoobil Lagoon (Murrumbidgee catchment). Bayesian hierarchical models Use Bayesian hierarchical models to test ecological effects of flow variation, including effects of discharge on Australian smelt in the Thompson river (Victoria) Suggests that hierarchical Bayesian models in particular can ‘greatly improve inferential strength in the data-poor situations that are common in ecological monitoring’ and are useful in assessing effectiveness of environmental flow programs. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science Australia (outside MDB – South) Key information to be considered in development of conceptual models. Includes a specific focus on flow-ecology relationships. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since publication). Developed outside the MDB and focuses on a specific species. Webb et al, 2010 2-B1 (Adequate) Bayesian hierarchical models – juvenile fish responses to wetland inundation and antecedent conditions Research on effects of floodplain inundation of fish abundance in wetlands using a ‘hierarchical multi-species model’. Model approach ‘links single-species models together by imposing a community-level hierarchal layer’. Evaluates effects of antecedent conditions, including patterns in long, medium and wetland inundations. Suggests native fish respond positively to frequent inundation, while non-native fish respond positively to term dry periods followed by short-term inundation events. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB – South Key information to be considered in development of conceptual models. Relatively recent work (less than 10 years since publication) and includes a specific focus on flow-ecology relationships. Developed for use in the Southern Basin (may require modification for use in the North). Focus on wetlands (does not consider in-channel responses) and juvenile life-stages. Beesley et al, 2014 2-B1 (Adequate)
Fish ecology in arid zone catchments Outlines a conceptual model for fish ecology (recruitment and migration) in the Australian arid zone (waterhole, catchment and reach scales) – ‘modified source/sink model’. Species include Hyrtl’s Tandan, Welch’s Grunter, Golden Perch, Australian Smelt, Carp Gudgeon, Banded Grunter, Barcoo Grunter, Creek Catfish, Silver Tandan, Glassfish, Rainbowfish, Bony Bream and Spangled Perch. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science Australia (Outside MDB – North) Key information to be considered in development of conceptual models. Relatively recent (less than 10 years since publication) and includes focus on relationships (recruitment and migration). Developed outside the MDB (may not be directly applicable for Northern Basin catchments). Kerezsy, 2010 2-B1 (Adequate) Fish-habitat dynamics in small tropical rivers Provides a conceptual model of seasonal fish-habitat dynamics (main channel) for a typical Wet Tropics river, based on surveys (fish species and hydrogeomorphology/vegetation habitat/water quality variables) at Mulgrave River, Queensland. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science Australia (Outside MDB – North) Supplementary information. Relatively recent (date of publication less than 10 years ago). Does not have a specific focus on recruitment and flows and developed outside the MDB. Rayner et al, 2008 2-B1 (Adequate) Testing conceptual models of floodplain fish production Tests floodplain fish production models in response to low-flow and flow pulse years (recruitment and spawning) using larval sampling data from lower Murray-River. Species include Unspecked Hardyhead, Carp Gudgeon, Flathead Gudgeon, Australian Smelt and Golden and Silver Perch. Suggests that a ‘combination’ of conceptual models for small-bodied and large-bodied native fish should be used. Uses min/max autocorrelation analysis and dynamic factor analysis. Peer reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (South) Key information to be considered in development of conceptual models. Relatively recent information (less than 10 years since publication). Includes a specific focus on recruitment/flow relationships (but not movement). Developed for Southern MDB (Lower Murray) – may require modification for Northern Basin catchments. Vilizzi, 2012 2-B1 (Adequate)
additional Carp management interventions. Flow regulation and Carp recruitment in the Murray-Darling Basin Research on effects of flow regulation on Carp recruitment (based on biomass, numbers of sub-adult carp and results from NSW Rivers Survey) in lowland Murray-Darling Basin rivers (Murray and Darling catchments, including unregulated lowland, regulated lowland and slopes river types). Peer-reviewed, reproducible evolving science MDB (South and some Northern catchments) Supplementary information. Some focus on flow-ecology relationship (flow regulation and temperature thresholds) for Carp recruitment. Data relevant to Southern and Northern Basin Slightly dated information (10 years since publication) and focus on recruitment. Particularly relevant to native-Carp interactions. Driver et al, 2005 2-B1 (Adequate)