A preliminary investigation of the distribution, range and extent of reef habitats and communities in Port Davey

Proposals for marine reserves require a clear understanding of the habitats. marine communities and species to be protected within a reserve. and the degree to which these will be represented in any final reserve proposal. In most cases, dive-based surveys are necessary during the process of boundary delineation, particularly where information, such as the depth range, degree of exposure and offshore extension of reefs. is limited. The present report describes the results of a diving survey in Port Davey. southwestern Tasmania, which investigated the distribution of different reef habitat types.