The results of this survey are based primarily on the first hand experience of Craig Sanderson who was doing his masters thesis at the time on aspects of the biology of Macrocystis pyrifera (Linnaeus) C. Agardh 1820. In need of significant beds of M. pyrifera for research much of the east coast was searched by boat. Significant stands (>1/2 acre) were found at Darlington, Southerly Bottom (East North Bay), Fortesque Bay and George III Rock, (near Actaeon Island). The status of the few areas not visited was determined from anecdotal reports.

Outlines of Macrocystis beds are presented for Tasmania's east and south for late 1988-early1989.

Position Accuracy: There is a fair amount of inaccuracy in the exact position of the beds as they are drawn from memory, but the overall sizes of the beds are good to +/-200%. Macrocystis present on the surface of the ocean is assumed to reflect overall quantities of the alga and distribution. Some areas may have been overlooked where the alga did not reach the surface due to tides or plants in poor condition etc. Attribute Accuracy: Presence absence data - no attributes Logical Consistency: All data is checked by both visual and automated means. Completeness: N/A Additional: Sanderson 1992, Master of Science, University of Tasmania: 'Subtidal Macroalgal Studies in South Eastern and Eastern Tasmanian Coastal Waters.