Media Release - Aquatic Surveillance for Invasive Freshwater Turtles at TYTO Wetlands

Council, in conjunction with Biosecurity Queensland, are currently undertaking aquatic surveillance for invasive freshwater turtles located at TYTO Wetlands.

An invasive turtle detection platform was deployed into the wetlands of TYTO on Thursday 19 August 2021.

Just like aquatic weeds, and fish intended for the aquarium trade, exotic turtles are imported into Australia to be sold as pets. However, when these exotic species are allowed to escape into Australian aquatic environments, they often outcompete our local native species for food and habitat.

The turtle surveillance program will be in place for a period of approximately four weeks capturing images of the local turtle populations at TYTO. The information collected will allow Biosecurity Officers to determine what species are present and if any further management actions are required.  

Should you see any unusual turtles, such as the red-eared slider turtle, please take a photo and email to info@daf.qld.gov.au or phone Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

Please do not move or release any suspicious plants or animals from one location to another and notify Council’s Biosecurity Team by phone on 4776 4740 should you have any concerns.