Research Research Themes Thriving Tropical Ecosystems & Environments

Thriving Tropical Ecosystems & Environments

Managing, conserving and protecting our land, coast and sea environments for resilience and adaptation to climate change.

Tropical systems span from inland forests to offshore reefs. Building on decades of leadership in marine ecology, fisheries, coastal processes and terrestrial ecosystem science, James Cook University is strengthening interdisciplinary approaches that link water, land and sea. Through integrated field science, modelling and community partnership, our research generates knowledge that informs coastal management, climate adaptation and ecosystem stewardship — and provides the foundation for global research partnerships and future leadership in tropical environmental science.

Research with Impact

Clean-up superstars

Could the humble Blacklip Rock Oyster be the pollution pac-man of our oceans and waterways? JCU Professor Jan Strugnell thinks so and she has the research to back it up. To mark World Ocean Day 2024, the theme of which is Catalysing Action for our Oceans and Climate, we take a closer look at how these munching molluscs could bring about change.

JCU Professor Jan Strugnell explores the depths of the ocean.

Environmental action from above

PhD Candidate Sophie Walker says that drones are fast becoming a device to support environmental management practices. Able to take photos and videos from above, and armed with a range of specialised sensors, drones can provide a broad perspective on habitat restoration, land surveying, and environmental changes. Sophie’s investigation of drones’ potential for research and environmental management gives keen insight into how Australians can take environmental action.

View of wetlands and river in Townsville from above with some buildings and mountains in the distance.

How to stop poaching in marine reserves

Millions of people rely on fish and seafood from coral reefs. Some fishermen don’t care about illegally taking fish or other animals from no-take zones in marine parks. How hard can it be to change their minds? That is what Dr Brock Bergseth is trying to find out.

Tracking tiny turtles

PhD Student Rebecca Diggins has been researching juvenile hawksbill turtles for the last few years. Rebecca shares with us what makes tiny turtles happy and what they do once they have been set free on the Great Barrier Reef.

Our research

Our research is dedicated to understanding, managing and conserving tropical ecosystems across land, coastal and marine environments, enhancing resilience and adaptation to climate change while sustaining livelihoods, biodiversity and ecosystem function across boundaries.

We investigate marine and freshwater ecosystems, from reefs and fisheries to coastal and inland waters, as well as terrestrial ecosystems, including rainforests, tropical savannas, and soils.

Our work addresses critical challenges in biosecurity and invasive species management, biodiversity conservation, and environmental monitoring and management.

We explore strategies for conservation, adaptation, and sustainable livelihoods, ensuring that ecosystems and communities can thrive in a changing climate.

With a strong focus on climate change resilience and adaptation, we also recognize the vital role of Indigenous Land and Sea Country management in preserving natural and cultural heritage for future generations.

Research Institutes, Centres and Collaborations

TropWATER

Science-based solutions for managing, protecting and restoring freshwater and marine ecosystems, including coral reef, seagrass, mangrove and megafauna habitats.

Centre for Sustainable Tropical Fisheries and Aquaculture

Research on sustainable aquatic food systems, fisheries ecology and aquaculture innovation that supports community livelihoods, food security and environmental stewardship in tropical waters.

Centre for Tropical Environment and Sustainability Sciences

Developing, creating, implementing and exporting solutions to environmental and sustainability issues faced by Australia and the rapidly developing tropical world.

Centre for Tropical Bioinformatics and Molecular Biology

Developing innovative solutions to solve issues in the tropics using high throughput molecular data and cutting-edge bioinformatics

Australian Tropical Herbarium

Tropical plant knowledge for science and society.

Centre for Tropical Biosecurity

Reduce biosecurity threats and impacts in the tropics and beyond.