MARINE ECOLOGIST AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT

Seagrass, Coral Reefs, Mangroves, Fisheries, and Water Quality

Dr Richard Unsworth M.Sc B.Sc CMarSci

Chartered Marine Scientist (IMarEST)

I am a marine ecologist based in Cairns, Australia, with eight years experience in academic research, commercial and non-governmental organisations. I have a specialist knowledge of habitat connectivity, seagrass ecosystems and tropical marine ecology. I work for the Marine Ecology Group at Queensland  Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) researching seagrass environmental dynamics, developing coastal habitat assessments and coordinating the Reef Rescue SeagrassWatch marine monitoring projects. Previously I worked as a consultant for Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) on large marine development projects. Recent consultancy projects include Environmental Impact Assessments for a power station in Indonesia, Port Expansions in Western Australia, and road developments in Queensland.

Current research interests include the impact of climate variability on seagrass ecosystems, ocean acidification and seagrass, habitat connectivity between seagrass reef and mangroves, the economic and social value of seagrass meadows, coral disease dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, and the habitat value of seagrass to caridean shrimp.

I have a PhD titled ‘Aspects of the ecology of Indo-Pacific seagrass systems’ and have previously been involved with the monitoring of artisanal fisheries; work on direct economic value of habitats; and research into the effect of marine reserves on top predatory fish. My career has included consultancy, conservation and research projects in Wales, Indonesia, Philippines, England, Portugal, Azores and the Isles of Orkney. I am continually developing relations with NGOs, private consultancies and academia. This is to develop research and consultancy projects, and a long-term career in environmental consultancy and natural resource management. The creation of Orthia Marine as a private consulting company is a long-term development.

I originate from Wrexham, Wales and support the mighty reds. May Dean Saunders bring them much needed success! I am also a keen kitesurfer, and cyclist.

If you have a spare 5 minutes please visit: