The dataset comprises abalone abundance and algal cover information on 'control' reefs and 'translocation reefs' in Tasmania.

In 2006, transect surveys were conducted at sites in eastern inshore Tasmanian waters at depths and habitats typical of those where abalone are commercially fished. Surveys focused on four areas of the Tasmanian coastline including St Helens, Bicheno and Dunalley on the east coast and the Actaeons region on the south-east coast; with at least 10 reefs sampled in each region.

Linear video transects (40m total length; 20m into barrens and 20m into kelp from original fixed marker on the benthos) were used to assess changes in kelp growth in several points along the kelp - urchin barren interface in north-east Tasmania (St. Helens Island, Sloop Rock and Elephant Rock research areas). The video transects were deployed in the same position, and assessed at different points of time. The video was analysed in the laboratory to assess percentage of kelp and barren cover, as well as the kind of substratum, kelp species identifiable and number of sea urchins (Centrostephanus rodgerii and Heliocidaris erythrogramma) and other benthic organisms when present (rock lobster and abalone).