Marine and coastal biodiversity

The Northern Territory (NT) has one of the world's most intact marine environments so it is important to protect its marine and coastal biodiversity.

The Territory is also home to the largest area of mangrove forest in Australia.

The NT marine habitats, such as coral reefs, seagrass meadows, mangroves and sand or mudflats are important hotspots for biodiversity.

They are important breeding, nursery and feeding areas for many species, including marine turtles and colonies of shorebirds, seabirds and waterbirds, as well as dolphins, dugongs, sawfish, sea snakes, seahorses, sharks and rays.

Many of these species are common in NT waters where they have declined in other regions and now are listed as threatened species.

Marine ecosystems are connected. Species regularly move across large areas and into waters outside the NT and Australian borders.

The quality of the NT marine environment depends greatly on how marine resources are used and how nearby terrestrial areas are managed.

They can also be affected by natural disturbances and global factors.

Report a marine wildlife incident

If you come across injured or sick marine wildlife, report it as soon as possible.

Find out how to report a marine wildlife incident or injury.