RST Apology to Tasmanian Aboriginal people 2021.
A number of subtidal benthic assemblages of plants and animals which commonly occur around the Tasmanian coast are described. These assemblages are incorporated into a general scheme which relates subtidal zonation patterns to wave exposure and depth.
The existence of a cool-temperate marine biogeographic province (the Maugean), centred in southern, western and eastern Tasmanian waters, is reaffirmed. The biota of the northern Tasmanian coast is considered similar to that of the Victorian coast and includes a large component of Flindersian (Southern Australian) species. A number of Peronian (New South Wales) species reach the Tasmanian east coast. Most of these animals probably drift to Tasmania as pelagic larvae in southward flowing currents, and may even travel further afield to New Zealand, but have difficulty surviving to maturity and spawning. Many Maugean plant and animal species also occur in New Zealand.
Published Papers
The Royal Society of Tasmania acknowledges, with deep respect, the traditional owners of this land, and the ongoing custodianship of the Aboriginal people of Tasmania. The Society pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge that Tasmanian Aboriginal Peoples have survived severe and unjust impacts resulting from invasion and dispossession of their Country. As an institution dedicated to the advancement of knowledge, the Royal Society of Tasmania recognises Aboriginal cultural knowledge and practices and seeks to respect and honour these traditions and the deep understanding they represent.
On 15 February 2021, the Royal Society of Tasmania offered a formal Apology to the Tasmanian Aboriginal people.