Long-term monitoring of sea temperatures in Commonwealth tropical MPAs.

Improved understanding of the physical and biological characteristics of the Rowley Shoals. Contribute to the modelling of oceanography and/or water quality of the region. Access to reliable time-series data on temperature trends is important in understanding reef ecology, vulnerability of coral communities, bleaching thresholds and community structure.Part of a wider national project: "Seatemps". Financial contributors are; AIMS, GBRMPA, CRC Reef Research Centre, Ports Corporation of QLD, Department of Environment and Heritage, NSW Marine Park Authority. DEC's involvement: DEC will provide technical advice regarding the positioning of the loggers at Clerke and Imperieuse reefs. Through the MOU between DEC and DEH, DEC staff may be involved with the deployment and maintenance of the loggers.