“This is a complex issue and is more likely to be due to the effect of recent weather patterns and natural changes in fish biology throughout the seasons. Prevalence of the syndrome appears to be declining which supports these theories.
“Warmer ocean temperatures may also be affecting snapper metabolism, meaning they need to use more energy and require more food.”
Lawrence said the report found a lack of food was the likely cause of the syndrome, but there was no evidence to suggest that fishing was the cause of that.
Watch Simon Lawrence’s full interview with AM above.