The team of researchers from eight Australian institutions and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will use remote sensing technology for the study.
"The effects of climate change and the pressures of human population growth are having significant impacts on oceans. Ocean colour helps us understand the interactions between aquatic ecosystems, climatic factors and human impacts," said Arnold Dekker of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO).
"Australia has expertise in the areas of ocean science, measurement and modelling, and collaborates with international space research agencies to improve its access to satellite remote sensing capabilities," a statement from the Australian high commission quoted Dekker as saying.
“ISRO has an impressive programme of multiple satellite sensors to detect and monitor changes and trends in ocean systems,” he said.