A Stitch in Time: Evidence-Based Strategy to Keep Platypus From Extinction

Grant number: LP150100093 | Funding period: 2016 - 2019

Completed

Abstract

This project aims to assess the status of the iconic platypus, identified as ‘near-threatened’ in 2014. The project’s multidisciplinary approach plans to compare regulated and unregulated rivers to investigate metapopulation structure (via physical and genetic tagging), current condition and future adaptability of the species, as well as other threats and habitat quality. The project also links vulnerability of platypus populations to conservation actions that reduce extinction risk, through rigorous decision analyses. It is anticipated that the project will deliver implementable conservation actions at relevant scales.

University of Melbourne Researchers