Values of our waterways

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Western Australian waterways have many ecological, cultural, social and economic values.

Last updated: 14 August 2023

Find out more about each of the topics below.

Our waterways have intrinsic ecological value and important social and economic benefits.

Western Australia’s high value waterways

Our high value waterways are protected for their biodiversity, ecosystem values and natural beauty.

Aquatic habitat

Aquatic habitats have a major influence on the health of waterways.

Aquatic and riparian vegetation

Aquatic and riparian vegetation is important to keeping waterways healthy.

Aquatic macroinvertebrates

Macroinvertebrates play a critical role in aquatic ecosystems.

Fish and crayfish

Fish and crayfish are good indicators for assessing waterway health.

Seagrass

Seagrasses found in Western Australia are the most diverse of any region in the world.

Macroalgae

Macroalgae are important in aquatic ecosystems as a food source and habitat to invertebrates, fish and birds.

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