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Marine and Freshwater Research

Marine and Freshwater Research

Marine and Freshwater Research is a multidisciplinary journal publishing original research and reviews on all aquatic environments and subject areas. Read more about the journalMore

Editors-in-Chief: Shokoofeh Shamsi and Vinicius Farjalla

Publishing Model: Hybrid. Open Access options available.

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Latest

These articles are the latest published in the journal. Marine and Freshwater Research is published under a continuous publication model. More information is available on our Continuous Publication page.

Published online 28 August 2025

MF24124Status and trends in wetland conservation policy under climate change in the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia

Fatima Tanveer 0009-0005-9470-3392, Jamie Pittock 0000-0001-6293-996X, Matthew J. Colloff 0000-0002-3765-0627 and Carina Wyborn
 

Our evaluation of wetland conservation mechanisms in the Commonwealth and three major states in Australia’s Murray–Darling Basin showed implementation challenges across different scales and jurisdictions. For greater consistency and cooperation, we recommend reviewing freshwater conservation policy integration pathways among jurisdictions examined. Setting pragmatic targets and explicit implementation strategies is important for improvement in wetland conservation and effective climate adaptation efforts.

MF24124 Abstract  |  MF24124 Full Text  | MF24124PDF (1.6 MB)  | MF24124Supplementary Material (592 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 26 August 2025

MF24286Environmental flows in the upper Murrumbidgee River: evaluating flow delivery and governance to inform future environmental flow agreements

Anna McGuire 0009-0006-2920-3858 and Jamie Pittock 0000-0001-6293-996X
 

This article investigated the extent to which environmental flows have been delivered in the upper Murrumbidgee River in southern-eastern Australia from 2005 to 2022. Environmental releases were below the 27-GL annual target in 10 of the 15 years from 2008 to 2022. Opportunities for improvement include setting enforceable targets, ensuring independent scientific oversight and implementing a flow response monitoring program.

MF24286 Abstract  |  MF24286 Full Text  | MF24286PDF (715 KB)  | MF24286Supplementary Material (318 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 21 August 2025

MF25095Abrupt historical change in the nature of a Ramsar Wetland: Seaford Swamp, greater Melbourne, Australia

Peter A. Gell 0000-0002-2251-5158, Emmy Frost 0000-0002-2173-237X, Cameron Gell and Rebekah Kurpiel 0000-0002-3134-408X
 

Seaford Swamp was listed as a Ramsar Wetland in 2001 when it was described as mostly fresh. Analysis of microfossils preserved in sediment cores showed a 7000-year marine–estuarine history, with a switch to fresh in the late 19th Century resulting from engineering works for urban development. The identification of the past condition provides alternate targets for management under climate change.

MF25095 Abstract  |  MF25095 Full Text  | MF25095PDF (1.9 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 14 August 2025

MF25073The impact of hydrological wellness design on the psychological health and social interaction of rural elderly people

Hong Li 0000-0001-9713-0474, YaLong Xing, Zhenyi Chen and Hongling Jiang
 

The study investigated the influence of hydrological wellness design on the psychological health and social interaction of elderly people in rural areas of Guangzhou. The design positively influenced health response assessments, including mental health, social behaviour and physical health, and multimodal interaction perception mediated the relationship between hydrological design perception and health response. The results emphasise potential of hydrological design in enhancing wellbeing of the elderly, particularly by reducing loneliness and promoting social integration, and guide future designs aimed at improving the health of the elderly through integrated natural elements.

This article belongs to the collection: Global perspectives: sustainable management of freshwater aquatic ecosystem services and water resources.

MF25073 Abstract  | PDF (744 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 11 August 2025

MF25005Identification and distribution characteristics of recessive hydro-ecological space in the Qinhuai River Basin, China

Yichen Yan, Hui Xu, Wei Zhou, Xiaojuan Shen, Jun Liu, Jichen Zhang 0000-0002-1930-8174 and Cheng Gao 0000-0003-1622-0190
 

We used ArcGIS software and the InVEST model to identify the regional recessive hydro-ecological space of the Qinhuai River Basin in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China. We visualised the three types of recessive hydro-ecological spaces (water source conservation, water purification, and soil and water conservation), and quantitatively analysed the spatial distribution characteristics of each type, which led us to the relevant conclusions.

This article belongs to the collection: Global perspectives: sustainable management of freshwater aquatic ecosystem services and water resources.

MF25005 Abstract  | PDF (4.2 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 11 August 2025

MF24266Reproductive dynamics of the pink shrimp Penaeus brasiliensis (Decapoda: Penaeidae) in south-eastern Brazil

Caroline Vettorazzi Bernabé 0000-0002-3904-6220, Henrique David Lavander, Cecília Fernanda Farias Craveiro, Douglas da Cruz Mattos 0000-0001-7163-4666, Roberta Cardozo de Paiva Garcia, Lucas Areias Bassul, Carolina Trindade Perry and Antonio Sergio Varela Junior
 

The pink shrimp (Penaeus brasiliensis) is an important species for artisanal fishing in Espírito Santo, south-eastern Brazil. This study showed how these shrimps reproduce and grow in this region. We found that the shrimp reproduce earlier than in other areas, with their main reproductive season being between February and May, peaking in March and April. These findings are essential for ensuring the sustainable management and conservation of this valuable resource.

MF24266 Abstract  | PDF (2 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 11 August 2025

MF25063Successful artificial incubation and juvenile-rearing of dropped eggs of a critically endangered freshwater crayfish (Cherax tenuimanus)

Rodney E. Duffy 0009-0000-5393-1405, Blaine Hodgson, Amber Quinn and Marcus Newman
 

The hairy marron is a critically endangered freshwater crayfish restricted to a single river in south-western Western Australia. This study investigated novel methods of artificial incubation to hatch eggs, dropped from a female held in captivity, and rear subsequent juveniles. Of the dropped eggs, 85% hatched successfully and 74% of the juveniles survived and grew in a recirculating aquaculture system. The study indicated that artificial incubation and captive rearing of dropped eggs is a viable option for hairy marron and may have implications for other freshwater crayfish species.

MF25063 Abstract  |  MF25063 Full Text  | MF25063PDF (4.4 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 06 August 2025

MF24206The recent challenges encountered in water resources and management in Pakistan: how does legal framework exist in water governance and environmental policy to a sustainable approach to socio-economic?

Nishan-E-Hyder Soomro 0000-0001-5685-7124 and Huangbao Gui 0009-0006-0152-8079
 

This research has examined water-related challenges in Pakistan, evaluated current environmental management practices and compared strategies with those in China, India and the UK. It has highlighted the need for comprehensive water governance, aligning with global standards and the UN SDGs. The study underscored the importance of legal cooperation, sustainability and international collaboration for effective water management across industrial and agricultural sectors.

This article belongs to the collection: Global perspectives: sustainable management of freshwater aquatic ecosystem services and water resources.

MF24206 Abstract  | PDF (822 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 06 August 2025

MF24152A statistical model for predicting water temperature in temperate rivers and streams

Patricia Y. Koh 0000-0001-9079-4323, Jian D. L. Yen, Jarod P. Lyon, Matt West and John R. Morrongiello 0000-0002-9608-4151
 

Temperature has profound effects on the biology and ecology of species. However, in freshwater environments, water temperature observations can be difficult to attain across large spatial and temporal scales. In this study, we used readily available environmental data to predict water temperature across south-eastern Australia. Our approach showed that air temperature and elevation are excellent predictors of water temperature.

MF24152 Abstract  |  MF24152 Full Text  | MF24152PDF (2.3 MB)  | MF24152Supplementary Material (4.8 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 01 August 2025

MF24203Phosphorus limits diazotrophic cyanobacteria whereas other phytoplankton are co-limited by nitrogen and phosphorus in the lowland Murray River, Australia

Terence A. Rogers 0009-0003-9376-9280, Jordan A. Facey, Huy Andrew Luong, Jarrod E. Walton, Tsuyoshi Kobayashi, Nicholas Williamson, Justin R. Seymour and Simon M. Mitrovic
 

Blooms of nitrogen fixing cyanobacteria have become increasingly frequent over the past decade along the Murray River, Australia. We assessed the influence of nitrogen and phosphorus on both cyanobacterial and phytoplankton communities through six in situ nutrient amendment experiments. We found that phosphorus is the key limiting nutrient for cyanobacterial growth, whereas the broader phytoplankton community is often co-limited by nitrogen and phosphorus.

MF24203 Abstract  |  MF24203 Full Text  | MF24203PDF (1.5 MB)  | MF24203Supplementary Material (358 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 16 July 2025

MF24222Assessment of multiple paternity in spinner shark (Carcharhinus brevipinna) litters from eastern Australian waters

Alicia K. Linn 0009-0009-0295-8531, Alexis L. Levengood, Christine L. Dudgeon, Johan A. Gustafson, Julia L. Smith 0000-0002-0723-0453 and Bonnie J. Holmes
 

This study has provided a novel assessment and confirmation of multiple paternity as a mating strategy for the commercially important spinner shark (Carcharhinus brevipinna). We achieved this with the application of genetic techniques to infer sibships and identify paternities. We make considerations for these findings in the context of existing hypotheses and highlight areas for future research to take place.

MF24222 Abstract  |  MF24222 Full Text  | MF24222PDF (549 KB)  | MF24222Supplementary Material (334 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 14 July 2025

MF23149Submerged plant allelopathic effects on the growth of a harmful bloom-forming cyanobacterium (Microcystis aeruginosa): a diversity gradient experiment

Xia Gao, An-Guo Gao, Zhong-Xi Bai, Jin-Rui Yuan, Jian Liang and Ai-Ping Wu 0000-0001-7288-3971
 

The allelopathic effects of a differing diversity of aquatic plants on phytoplankton are not well known, although it is well known that aquatic plants have allelopathic effects on phytoplankton. We determined the allelopathic effects of four submerged macrophytes along a diversity gradient on the growth of a bloom-forming alga, Microcystis aeruginosa. The results showed that the alga were negatively affected by plant extracts and the algal growth inhibition increased with submerged plant diversity. Diverse mixed submerged plant allelopathy to control cyanobacteria is a potential strategy in eutrophic aquatic ecosystems.

MF23149 Abstract  | PDF (769 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 14 July 2025

MF25084Ecological monitoring and assessment of freshwater ecosystems: new trends and future challenges

Yong Xiao 0000-0002-6414-8384
 

Freshwater ecosystems are indispensable for earth stability and human survival, yet increasingly threatened by anthropogenic pressures and climate change. This paper synthesises key findings from all contributions in this collection and highlights cutting-edge advances in freshwater ecosystem research and practice. This compilation deepens our understanding of freshwater ecosystems and their challenges, advancing hydrosphere sustainable development.

This article belongs to the collection: Ecological monitoring and assessment of freshwater ecosystems: new trends and future challenges.

MF25084 Abstract  |  MF25084 Full Text  | MF25084PDF (3.7 MB)

Published online 11 July 2025

MF24244Optical properties of dissolved organic matter along a salinity gradient from a boreal river estuary to open coastal waters

Aleksandr Berezovski 0009-0006-1516-3330, Dag O. Hessen, Hanne Halkjelsvik Børseth and Tom Andersen
 

This study investigated the optical and isotopic properties of organic matter along a salinity gradient from the Glomma River to the outer Oslofjord. The results indicated that the light absorbance by terrestrial organic carbon and its fraction to marine-derived carbon diminish the further we go from the shore. It illustrates how coastal darkening is a relevant ecological issue affecting mainly near-coastal areas.

MF24244 Abstract  |  MF24244 Full Text  | MF24244PDF (1.3 MB)  | MF24244Supplementary Material (415 KB)   Open Access Article

Just Accepted

These articles have been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. They are still in production and have not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.

Most Read

The Most Read ranking is based on the number of downloads in the last 60 days from papers published on the CSIRO PUBLISHING website within the last 12 months. Usage statistics are updated daily.

Collections

Collections are a curation of articles relevant to a topical research area

Global perspectives: sustainable management of freshwater aquatic ecosystem services and water resources

Freshwater ecosystems, such as rivers, lakes, wetlands and estuaries, are essential for water purification, flood control and biodiversity. Given growing populations and climate change, sustainable management is critical for ensuring water quality and ecosystem health. The collection 'Global perspectives: sustainable management of freshwater aquatic ecosystem services and water resources' focuses on environmental flow assessments, pollution control, habitat restoration and climate change impacts. Contributions from the 7th International Symposium on Water Resource and Environmental Management (WREM2024) and other experts are invited to share innovative solutions for the global conservation and sustainable management of freshwater resources.

Collection Editor
Zhanhong Wan

Last Updated: 14 Aug 2025

Ecological monitoring and assessment of freshwater ecosystems: new trends and future challenges

Conservation efforts and restoration initiatives are crucial for improving biodiversity, ecological integrity, and ensuring the availability of clean water and other vital ecosystem services. This collection highlights the latest developments in these fields, as discussed at the 6th International Symposium on Water Pollution and Treatment 2023. The articles herein primarily concentrate on the sustainable enhancement of freshwater ecological system monitoring and assessment methods, the identification of indicator species, and the preservation of ecosystem services.

Collection Editor
Yong Xiao

Last Updated: 14 Jul 2025

Science in Sea Country

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have a long and enduring connection to Sea Country. The marine science community must actively embrace Indigenous knowledge and make space for it in our current publishing systems, as well as exploring new and innovative ways to share knowledge and encourage the next generation of Indigenous scientists. To that end, the Australian Marine Sciences Association presents this Collection focusing on ‘Science in Sea Country’.

Collection Editors
Laura Parker and Rachel Przeslawski

Last Updated: 02 Jul 2025

Research highlights from South and Central America

This issue highlights groundbreaking research rooted in Central and South America, showcasing the region's rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems, and cultural heritage. From the ecological dynamics of the Amazon to sustainable agricultural innovations, these studies provide a window into the challenges and opportunities facing one of the world's most diverse regions. Researchers explore the intersection of science, conservation, and local knowledge, offering insights into preserving fragile ecosystems and fostering resilience in the face of climate change. With a focus on Central and South America, this collection underscores the importance of regional perspectives in addressing global issues. We hope these contributions inspire continued collaboration and innovative solutions for the sustainable future of the region and beyond.

Papers in this collection are free to read until 31 May 2025

Last Updated: 05 Feb 2025

Environmental flows in northern Murray–Darling Basin: what we know about the science and management after a decade of practice

Following the Basin Plan 2012, there has been a concerted effort from agencies and research institutions to manage and monitor flows and the environment in the Murray–Darling Basin. The Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH) funded extensive research programs in the northern Murray–Darling Basin during the period of time following the Basin Plan's release. With the Basin Plan scheduled for renewal in the next few years after 2024, this collection is intended to provide a focused source of information of flow management related research in the northern Murray–Darling Basin. This collection will be a resource for the creators of the next Basin Plan and improve understanding of flow management more broadly in Australia and worldwide.

All papers in this collection are Open Access and the foreword by Southwell et al. is free to read.

Collection Editors
Paul Frazier, Sarah Mika, Neil Argent, Michael Peat, Sam Capon

Last Updated: 25 Oct 2024

Research into Chinese Wetlands

The 10th INTECOL International Wetlands Conference, held in Changshu, China, in September 2016, offered a platform to review and explore advances in research on wetland biodiversity, functions and ecosystem services and management. Hosted by the INTECOL Wetland Working Group, this international forum was an opportune time for Asian marine and freshwater researchers to present their research. This Collection contains a selection of nine articles published in Marine and Freshwater Research that showcase the range of research being undertaken within China.

Collection Editor
C. Max Finlayson

Last Updated: 12 Sep 2016

Shark and Ray Life History

Sharks and rays comprise an increasingly threatened group of aquatic predators. As the world’s shark and ray populations decline, improved conservation and management of these species is critical. Recognising that life history parameters form the basis for much of this research, we have compiled this ‘Shark and Ray Life History’ Collection of papers from Marine and Freshwater Research.

Last Updated: 13 Mar 2015

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