An endangered fish species only found in the south of Tasmania has put the brakes on the installation of a new stormwater pipe.
The Clarence City Council has been forced to halt the Beach Stormwater Project, initially scheduled for completion in June, to avoid disrupting the spawning season of the rare spotted handfish.
The council said the project could not “be completed as planned” due to “environmental time constraints” and will now be delayed until early 2025.
“We remain committed to prioritising our environment and minimising impacts on our treasured, natural areas,” a spokesperson said.
“The spotted handfish is a rare species only found in Tasmania, specifically in the River Derwent and are critically endangered.”
“As they are limited in number, it is important council does its part in protecting the breeding season.”
A temporary pipe will be installed to allow roads, beaches and trails to return to their former use until the project resumes next year.
The Beach Street sand dune will be restored with erosion protection and the beach and foreshore trail will be reopened for public access.
According to the Derwent Estuary Program, an estimated fewer than 10 handfish colonies live in the River Derwent.
They are found at depths of two to 30 metres below the surface and spawn only from September to October.
“The small overall numbers and low population density means that the spotted handfish is vulnerable to disturbance,” the Department of Natural Resources and Environment website states.
“Threats may be predation by the exotic Pacific Seastar, loss of spawning habitat through scouring of seabed, by boat mooring chains and water quality issues from industrial pollution, urban effluent and siltation.”
