Top End residents have always known that Darwin Harbour is special - but the sheer scale of its ecological diversity and significance may just surprise you.

A new report reveals Darwin Harbour is one of the most pristine and ecologically and biologically important mangrove estuarine ecosystems in the Indo-Pacific region. 

Many of the extraordinary species found here have evolved to be dependent upon the freshwater / saltwater linkages unique to this region, and many are found almost nowhere else on earth. 

The Harbour provides vital habitat for an array of marine species, and in fact the diversity of teleost (bony fish) species approaches that of the renowned Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia - one of Australia's most celebrated and protected marine icons.

Darwin Harbour: A Marine National Treasure was co-authored by the team at Oceanwise including Director Dr Ben Fitzpatrick, Dr Kristina Heidrich, and Matilda Bishop; and Larrakia woman Donna Jackson. Find the full report here. 

The remarkably intact ecosystems of Darwin Harbour face growing threats - from climate change, toxic spills, rising levels of heavy metals, dredging, and projects like Middle Arm gas hub and the Bonaparte carbon dumping project. 

Stay connected with Environment Centre NT to learn more about our incredible Harbour and take action to protect it for future generations.