Australia: A survey of the rare black cod in the Port Stephens, Great Lakes Marine Park has produced some surprising and pleasing results, a research scientist has said.
Research scientist with the marine park, Dave Harasti, said during the search, which was conducted by marine park and community divers during April and May, a total of 24 of the vulnerable fish were sighted.
"This is really great news for the conservation of the species. I would have been extremely pleased if we'd only found six of these imposing fish," said Mr Harasti.
Mr Harasti said the black cod, which can grow up to two metres long and weigh 100kg, was the one of the largest and most important fish species in the Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park and said the search was part of an ongoing recovery project for the fish.