New marine plants discovered

WA scientists have discovered almost three-dozen new marine plant species in the South West.

Marine scientists from the WA Herbarium, responsible for the documentation of botanical species, and the Department of Environment and Conservation, made the series of discoveries in the Walpole and Nornalup Inlets Marine Park.

The survey unearthed a new green algae and the first records of red algae species' in Australia.

Environment minister Bill Marmion said the findings added to our knowledge of the inlet's biodiversity and complex food webs.

"By understanding the life-cycles of these new species, scientists and marine managers can more readily recognise 'invaders' that could become major pests," Mr Marmion said.

"The survey helps to provide insight into how certain marine species are distributed and significantly builds on the existing knowledge of marine plants in the inlets."