Fish Assemblages in Three Tidal Saltmarsh and Mangrove Flats in Temperate NSW, Australia: A Comparison Based on Species Diversity and Abundance

Fish assemblages in three geographically distinct saltmarsh meadows and mangrove forests in the Sydney region were examined using fyke nets over three common sampling periods. The saltmarshes at Towra Point and Allens Creek, though of contrasting geomorphic setting, showed similar fish assemblages during spring tides, with relatively high diversity and abundance. The saltmarsh at Bicentennial Park, reclaimed from dredge spoil in the early 1960’s, showed significantly lower diversity and abundance. Fish assemblages in the three mangrove settings were each distinct, though with no significant differences in diversity and abundance between sites. The result raises questions about the efficacy of created saltmarsh as a compensatory habitat for fish.