Currently developing a reliable, sensitive and cost-effective tool to measure physiological stress in aquaculture species through blood and haemolymph

Oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species, biomarkers, skeletal muscle, myofilament and calcium handling proteins, duchene muscular dystrophy, aquaculture

Aquaculture species are subject to a variety of stressors because their homeostatic physiology is dependent on their environmental surroundings. Common stressors include: parasitism and associated bathing practices, water pollution, stress from increasing water temperatures, sub-optimal diets, transport, handling and overcrowding. However, there is no practical analytical method of assessing physiological health. Most methods such as haematology, blood biochemistry, flow cytometry and histology have limitations regarding sensitivity, repeatability, cost and simplicity. The lack of a physiological measure of aquatic animal health not only impacts industry operations but also affects research programs designed to improve industry productivity. 

My aim is to continue developing and commercialising an early warning measure of stressors affecting physiological health of key Australian aquaculture species including yellowtail kingfish, salmon, trout, barramundi and oysters (pearl and edible).

This tool will allow aquaculturists to develop monitoring and management systems to minimise the negative impacts of stressors; develop more sustainable aquafeeds and maximise industry productivity and profitability. In-turn, this will give our oceans wild-stocks relief and help aquauculture grow to meet human consumption.