Pipis tagged in Australian research first

03 January 2017

In an Australian first, pipis are being tagged to better understand their short and long-term movement patterns in a project funded by recreational fishing licence fees.

Acting Executive Director of Fisheries Victoria, Dallas D'Silva, said scientists from the University of Melbourne have tagged 2000 pipis at Venus Bay.

"Every one of the 2000 pipis has been individually numbered with a small plastic tag glued to their shell," Mr D'Silva said.

"Scientists have recorded release locations of the tagged pipis so their relative movement can be tracked over time.

"To help with the project, volunteers are being encouraged to join 'The Great Pipi Hunt' later this week on Friday 6 January 2017.

"We want lots of people collecting pipis and helping to find the tagged ones. There are even prizes up for grabs."

When: 10.30 am to 1 pm
Where: Venus Bay Lifesaving Club, Beach No.1
Register: online via the Summer by the Sea website
Bring: hat, sunscreen, water, bucket, fresh water to drink
Enquiries: 0429 842 142

Mr D'Silva said people that couldn't make it along on the day, but did find tagged pipis over the summer holidays, could report them to pipihunt@gmail.com.

"We'd like anyone who finds a tagged pipi to record the tag colour and number, along with the location, date and time of capture.

"That information will help scientists map movement patterns and understand much more about this little bivalve shellfish, which is valued by anglers for bait and by multicultural communities for eating."

In conjunction with 'The Great Pipi Hunt', project leader Dr John Morrongiello will present on Victoria's unique marine life at the Venus Bay Life Saving Club at 6 pm, the night before on Thursday 5 January 2017. Everyone is welcome.