The Sea Slug Census program is a community-based research project led by Southern Cross University with the objective of documenting the diversity and distribution of these charismatic marine creatures. Starting at Nelson Bay in December 2013, the program has now expanded to 32 censuses spread over 12 locations. During this time, more than 1200 participants have photographed around 450 sea slug species including species that are new to science. They have also helped to map changing distribution patterns for many species – most likely related to climate change.
The Solitary Islands Underwater Research Group is excited to be the local organisers for the first Coffs Coast Sea Slug Census. This event will commence with introductory talks at the National Marine Science Centre at 6:30pm on 17 January 2019 and will run over the 3 subsequent days (18-20 Jan). Participants simply need to find and photograph as many species of sea slug as possible. You don’t have to be a diver to participate – many species of sea slug can be found in rocky shore habitats or in shallow water which is accessible on snorkel.
The Coffs Coast Sea Slug Census will include the entire Solitary Islands Marine Park as well as coastal waters to Brooms Head in the north and Sawtell in the south.
If you would like to join the Census complete the Sea Slug Census registration form.
Participants in the Census should complete the Photographs Form to accompany the photographs they submit.
https://www.surg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/sea20slug20census-1.pdf
https://www.surg.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/sea20slug20census20photographs20form-1.pdf
