Teacher resource c.5
Culminating

Fishing drama

Fishing guide:

• has an exclusive sports fishing guiding business in coastal estuaries and hinterland dams
• with activities mainly focus on predatory fish species such as mangrove jack, barramundi, yellowbelly and bass
• is worried that the spread of exotic pest fish species will jeopardise the business.

Aquaculturalist:

• has a diverse business including oyster leases on the coast and redclaw (freshwater crayfish) farm
• believes that tilapia and/or carp might introduce more diversity to the business
• knows that some restaurateurs have requested supplies for Asian tourists favouring familiar food.

QFS scientist:

• has been working on managing exotic pest fish
• has found that these fish can potentially degrade local fish stocks and freshwater habitats
• supports eradication techniques including using poisons (which also affect other species), trapping fish or genetic engineering.

Conservationist:

• (and the local conservation group) see the invasion of exotic pest fish as a major issue in local streams
• has lobbied politicians to commit more funds to control the problem
• has taken action by planting native trees along river banks to regenerate the natural systems
• would like to see exotic pest fish eradicated.

Farmer:

• sees traditional farming activities barely providing a living for the family in years to come
• has a farm-stay holiday and bed-and-breakfast business that is flourishing
• knows that guests are attracted to the area because of its good fishing opportunities exotic pest fish in the local creek are plentiful and large
• thinks that pest fish could be a potential drawcard for tourists.

back to home page | next page: The great pest fish debate adjudication sheet

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