Introducing grazers’ heroes: Goldined Rabbitfish
Welcome to our newest additions to the Darwin Waterfront lagoon!
These Goldlined Rabbitfish (Siganus lineatus) have joined the Darwin Waterfront coral garden to help support a cleaner, healthier habitat.
Bred at Groote Aqua’s Little Paradise facility on Groote Eylandt, the fish spent a week settling into the lagoon in a floating acclimation cage. Now released, they have already begun their important role as reef gardeners, grazing naturally on algae that can otherwise smother coral.
Why here?
Healthy coral needs balance.
By reducing algae and floating mats, rabbitfish help:
keep corals clean and able to grow,
improve water clarity, and
enhance the experience for swimmers, snorkellers, and visitors enjoying the Waterfront.
This collaboration with Groote Aqua, the Darwin Waterfront Corporation, and NT Fisheries demonstrates how Indigenous-led aquaculture and science can work together to strengthen and restore local ecosystems.
Right here in the lagoon, these fish are helping shape a more vibrant marine environment for everyone.
Want to learn more?
Explore the rest of our restoration journey.