A century after the Brisbane River cod went extinct, its endangered cousin, the Mary River cod, is thriving in the Brisbane River catchment. This remarkable comeback story began five years ago when thousands of fingerlings were introduced to the area. The Mary River cod, a major apex predator, was once abundant in the region, providing a significant source of protein for early settlers and serving as fodder for piggeries. However, habitat destruction and overfishing led to its decline and eventual disappearance. The disappearance of the Brisbane River cod had a profound impact on the ecosystem, as it played a crucial role in managing the food web in waterways. Now, with the reintroduction of the Mary River cod, there is a glimmer of hope for the future of the river's ecosystem. The species recovery plan, which includes the construction of a fish ladder on the Bremer River, has shown promising results. A Mary River cod was recently found using the fishway for the first time, and scientists are now monitoring its movement and growth. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and collaboration between various councils, fish stocking associations, and government organizations. Garry Fitzgerald, president of the Somerset and Wivenhoe Fish Stocking Association, expressed his excitement, stating that seeing the fingerlings grow into adults is incredibly rewarding and gives real hope for the species' recovery. Additionally, there is evidence that the Mary River cod is spawning in the catchment for the first time, marking another significant step towards the species' recovery. The protection of the cod is crucial, as any local fishers who catch one must release it unharmed. This story highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the potential for ecosystems to recover and thrive when given the necessary support and resources.
