Health Problems Of The Western Australian Dhufish (Glaucosoma Hebraicum)
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$81,405.00
Summary
The two current FRDC supported projects investigating the WA dhufish conducted at the Fremantle Maritime Center and the School of Biological Sciences at Murdoch University have identified various fish health issues for the species. In some cases these fish health issues will have implications for wild stocks of the WA dhufish and in others they may compromise the ability to commercialise the culture of the species.
Whilst health problems identified so far have been controlled to some ex ....The two current FRDC supported projects investigating the WA dhufish conducted at the Fremantle Maritime Center and the School of Biological Sciences at Murdoch University have identified various fish health issues for the species. In some cases these fish health issues will have implications for wild stocks of the WA dhufish and in others they may compromise the ability to commercialise the culture of the species.
Whilst health problems identified so far have been controlled to some extent in the hatchery, the ability to control these in a commercial grow-out operation will be very difficult unless a thorough understanding of the life history of the infesting organisms and the relationship to their host is known. Similarly, improved knowledge of the causal mechanisms of exophthalmia syndrome are required to permit prevention and treatment measures.
Staff at the Fremantle Maritime Centre, the Fisheries Department of WA, or the School of Biological Sciences at Murdoch University do not have the resources to quantify disease causal agents and preventative measures for the WA dhufish.
A recent report of the National Task Force on Imported Fish and Fish products (the Fish Task Force report) noted that there is a serious shortage of aquatic animal health specialists in Australia. The report identified a need to provide a continuum of expertise in this field to support developing aquaculture industries. A recent response to this issue from the Office of the Australian Chief Veterinary Officer (OCVO) emphasises that there is a considerable need for more veterinary training in fish health. This includes the development of standard diagnostic techniques for diseases of aquatic animals and the development of contingency plans for the management of aquatic disease and pest outbreaks. The proposed project addresses these issues. Objectives: 1. To understand the pathogenesis of exophthalmia syndrome in Western Australian dhufish 2. Control of significant health problems which occur in WA dhufish Read moreRead less
Multi-level analysis of human resource management systems on hospital outcomes. This project explores the relationships among human resource management systems, perceived organisational support, trust-in-management and commitment of healthcare workers. The fundamental aim is to assist hospital managers to determine where to direct their efforts to have maximum impact upon staff and hospital performance.
The Impact And Implication Of Perkinsus Olseni On Australian Abalone Fisheries
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$322,174.00
Summary
Perkinus olseni is a protozoan parasite that has negative effects on three commercially harvested abalone species in Australia – blacklip, greenlip and Roe’s. Disease manifestation ranges from high mortality (e.g. New South Wales; Liggins and Upston 2010) to chronic clinical infection (Gudkovs 2016). Chronically infected animals often exhibit extensive macroscopic lesions rendering the product unsaleable. Outbreaks in the 1980s in the South Australian (SA) Central Zone (SACZ) fishery removed 15 ....Perkinus olseni is a protozoan parasite that has negative effects on three commercially harvested abalone species in Australia – blacklip, greenlip and Roe’s. Disease manifestation ranges from high mortality (e.g. New South Wales; Liggins and Upston 2010) to chronic clinical infection (Gudkovs 2016). Chronically infected animals often exhibit extensive macroscopic lesions rendering the product unsaleable. Outbreaks in the 1980s in the South Australian (SA) Central Zone (SACZ) fishery removed 15 t of greenlip catch, with partial recovery of the fishery taking 30+ years. Avoidance of fishing areas in the SA Western Zone (SA WZ) abalone fishery with high prevalence of Perkinsus-related lesions has displaced ~10% (11t.yr-1) of blacklip catch to alternative fishing grounds, exacerbated quota reductions and likely cost the fishery in excess of $10 million over the past ten years. The impact of Perkinsus on abalone fisheries has not been fully quantified and the factors driving prevalence and disease expression are unknown. This information is fundamental for the effective management of this disease, and in particular the prevention of its spread and proliferation. Understanding the impacts of Perkinsus on abalone fisheries and developing strategies for mitigating impacts are the highest priority research need of the SAWZ. These aims are also relevant to the Abalone Council Australia strategic plan and supported by the SACZ and SA Southern Zone abalone fisheries because of the threat this disease poses to both fisheries. This project will consolidate current knowledge on Perkinsus, describe the impact and drivers of the disease in Australia, and determine whether shucking at sea is a high risk. This information is necessary to mitigate the spread and impact of the disease where abalone are currently shucked at sea. If shucking at sea is a high risk we will evaluate alternative ways in which harvesting can occur without further disease spread.
Objectives: 1. Assessment of the economic impact of Perkinsus olseni on blacklip and greenlip abalone fisheries 2. Identify environmental factors influencing the expression of clinical perkinsosis 3. Preliminary evaluation of the fate of viscera discarded at sea 4. Evaluate whether Perkinsus zoosporangia can be detected in faecal pellets following ingestion by fish or other viscera consumers (laboratory trials) 5. If objective 4 indicates zoosporangia detection in fish faeces, hold a workshop to evaluate ways in which harvesting can occur without further disease spread. Read moreRead less
Aquatic Animal Health And Biosecurity Subprogram: Strategic Planning, Project Management And Adoption
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$533,767.19
Summary
AAHBS provides a cohesive national approach to FRDC-supported aquatic animal health R&D in Australia by providing leadership, direction and focus for health R&D and other related non-R&D activities. AAHS was renewed in 2012 based on national need, previous performance and strong stakeholder support. Key strengths include its strategic focus and the establishment of a network of aquatic animal health experts and research providers. An external review of AAHS was undertaken in 2015 and it found th ....AAHBS provides a cohesive national approach to FRDC-supported aquatic animal health R&D in Australia by providing leadership, direction and focus for health R&D and other related non-R&D activities. AAHS was renewed in 2012 based on national need, previous performance and strong stakeholder support. Key strengths include its strategic focus and the establishment of a network of aquatic animal health experts and research providers. An external review of AAHS was undertaken in 2015 and it found that the consensus among the major stakeholders was that AAHS provides an essential service for the major stakeholders. Thus, continuation of AAHS beyond 2016 on the basis of a shared financial commitment by stakeholders from industry and governments is highly desirable.
Australia’s aquatic animal sector is free from many diseases that occur overseas, providing us with a competitive advantage in both production and trade. While the number of aquatic animal species and the absolute number of aquatic animals being farmed in Australia is increasing annually, new diseases caused by emerging infectious agents (e.g. new yellow head virus genotypes, oyster oedema disease, ostreid herpesvirus, Bonamia exitiosa) continue to threaten the sustainability of significant enterprises, and the call on health services to support this expanding industry is growing.
In addition to aquaculture, aquatic animal health R&D is required for the other aquatic animal sectors, including wild-capture (c.f. Edwardsiella ictaluri in catfish), recreational (c.f. Perkinsus in oysters) and ornamental (c.f. gourami iridovirus), that share the aquatic environment. Thus health services need to be coordinated across all aquatic sectors to ensure synergy while avoiding duplication. FRDC, through AAHBS, plays a major role in addressing research needs and training in aquatic animal health. With its incumbent expertise and experience, AAHBS is able to direct these activities in the most pressing areas.
Objectives: 1. Manage a portfolio of R&D projects that are directly concerned with aquatic animal health & biosecurity and are not managed by other FRDC subprograms, FRABs or IPAs 2. In consultation with key stakeholders (industry, government and aquatic animal health providers) develop strategic directions for R&D 3. Facilitate the dissemination of outputs (information and results) from R&D projects to key stakeholders Read moreRead less
Stock Structure Of Northern And Western Australian Spanish Mackerel
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$349,436.69
Summary
The proposed work is fundamental for assessment and sustainable, optimal harvest of Australia’s Spanish mackerel resources. This goal requires accurate information on which management decisions can be based. This project therefore seeks to describe the stock structure of a national shared resource, with a view to the development of complementary management approaches.
The NT, WA, Qld, Torres Strait and NSW have separate management regimes for the mackerel fisheries in their waters. ....The proposed work is fundamental for assessment and sustainable, optimal harvest of Australia’s Spanish mackerel resources. This goal requires accurate information on which management decisions can be based. This project therefore seeks to describe the stock structure of a national shared resource, with a view to the development of complementary management approaches.
The NT, WA, Qld, Torres Strait and NSW have separate management regimes for the mackerel fisheries in their waters. However, our lack of information on stock structure means that the appropriate scale of management units is just not known. It is unlikely that it will coincide with current administrative boundaries. Basic questions such as whether management actions in one state will impinge on the fisheries of others cannot yet be answered. With such uncertainty, for example, would declines in one area reflect interception during migration, or over-fishing of spawners in another area? Different responses to such questions may require fundamentally different management approaches. Hence the Northern Australia Fisheries Management meeting of May 1997 recognized that stock definition was required for effective assessment and management of this species.
Most fishery assessments assume a randomly mixed unit stock; an alternative is to explicitly include spatial dynamics. Possibly with the exception of the east coast, there is no real basis for defining Spanish mackerel unit stocks. In none of the Australian fisheries are spatial relationships sufficiently understood to be addressed in assessments. The proposed research is requisite for basic stock assessment, and the first step in developing spatially structured models and management.
Spanish mackerel are also taken across our northern boundaries, in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Pacific Island states. The proposed research is the basic work necessary to develop the methodology and information base for future research into these shared stocks, and for future studies into fine-scale spatial dynamics.
Recently available information suggests the Spanish mackerel fishery is growing rapidly in both commercial and recreational sectors. This underlines the need for this work as a basis for rational management. Commercial catches in WA and NT have increased substantially in recent years, and prices continue to rise. A recent recreational survey in NT revealed that recreational Spanish mackerel catches are of similar order to commercial catches. The species is a favoured target in the rapidly-growing and lucrative fishing tour sector.
The need for good for stock assessment is thus growing. Each state has responded with FRDC- or internally-funded programs. The results of this project could substantially change the directions of these projects, by establishing whether the assessment and management should be on a joint basis across states, or whether they should be on a more regional basis. Objectives: 1. Establish the degree of stock structure in the northern Australian Scomberomorus commerson stock, over a wide geographic range; 2. Having demonstrated structural differences within the northern stock on the large scale, describe finer scale spatial structure; and, 3. Provide advice to the fishery administrations on the appropriate geographic scale of assessment and management actions. 4. To include the analysis of otolith and genetic material collected from Kupang (Indonesia). 5. To collect and analyse parasite samples from Spanish Mackerel. Read moreRead less
Rock Lobster Post Harvest Subprogram: Strategic Planning, Project Management And Adoption
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$265,441.00
Summary
RESEARCH RELEVANCE AND ACCEPTANCE
FRDC is continually asked to fund a wide range of projects in the rock lobster post harvest area. These include studies of post-capture handling, transport, live holding cooking, packing, storing, freezing, Australian and international shipping, etc. To ensure that the investment in R&D results in significant profits for the industry it uses the Subprogram to assist it to measure the quality of science of the application, plan the research with indus ....RESEARCH RELEVANCE AND ACCEPTANCE
FRDC is continually asked to fund a wide range of projects in the rock lobster post harvest area. These include studies of post-capture handling, transport, live holding cooking, packing, storing, freezing, Australian and international shipping, etc. To ensure that the investment in R&D results in significant profits for the industry it uses the Subprogram to assist it to measure the quality of science of the application, plan the research with industry partners to ensure improved outcomes, develop a comprehensive extension program, and ensure a high level of adoption of the results.
The Subprogram has achieved a high degree of research coordination between the States and an effective communication strategy to ensure service delivery to the industry. The Subprogram has added value to the FRDC's research investment by managing its project portfolio in this manner. This could not have been achieved without an independent Subprogram Leader and a highl responsive Steering Committee that is represented by industry members across Australia.
RESEARCH EFFICIENCY
Because of the Subprogram there have been substantive savings in the operation of projects and in the funding approved for new projects. The Subprogram ensures that the projects are appropriately costed, involves the industry in the projects where ever possible, and coordinates travel and workshop budjets to ensure a more efficient use of limited research funds.
NEW PROJECT DEVELOPMENT
As an indication of needs. The Subprogram is currently examining projects looking at:
1. Designing improved baskets for transporting both western and southern rock lobster lobsters. This project will be developed mainly with non FRDC funding.
Basket designs vary widely in the industry. The were developed add-hock all over different parts of the fisheries and all over Australia. In recent years there have been many modifictions to original designs as fishers attempted to transport ever increasing numbers of lobsters in a condition 'suitable for live export'. A better designed basket could provide financial savings to fishers and processors, and perhaps make them an interchangable item, similar to the use of wooden pallets in other industries. In addition, a better basket could assist with health and saftey issues, becuse many of the present baskets in use result in excessively heavy loads being carried, which may cause back damage.
2. Solving the “pink lobster” problem (2003/243)in western rock lobsters which is causing problems for both the wild fishery and processors.
Lobsters with pink flesh are difficult for processors to sell and the definiely get a reduced price. This is also a problem for fishers who, knowing of the processors problems, often tend to discsrd these lobsters at sea. It is mainly a western rock lobster problem but it does occur on a small scale in southern rock lobsters in SA.
3. Value adding the southern rock lobster catch by optimising flesh quality of uder valued large lobsters for the sashimi market (2003/242).
Large southern lobsters are difficult if not impossible to sell and if the are sold it is a very low prices. The possibility of value adding to these lobsters by 'preparing them' for the sashimi market is to be examined.
4. Production a booklet assisting sales of rock lobsters by advising overseas buyers how best to hold live rock lobsters; and documenting the operations of the market in Hong Kong for southern rock lobsters to assist Australian marketers from South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania.
5. The cooking project 2001/235 will lead to dramatic new projects after completing of this study. Progress in this project has impressed the industry and clearly indicated that significant improvements improvements can be made in this area. The cooking techniques in practice can greatly improved. Innovate methods such an microwave cooking will be investigated.
Other projects will be developed after identification and consultation with industry. In all cases the Subprogram seeks quality scientific studies using innovative approaches, with maximum cost effectiveness.
Objectives: 1. Coordinate the FRDC Rock Lobster Post-Harvest Subprogram 2. Conduct an annual research workshop to present outcomes from the Subprogram to industry and the public, and to define research objectives for subsequent years 3. Facilitate travel of the Subprogram principal investigators, industry members and Subprogram Leader to biannual scientific committee meetings 4. Facilitate travel of industry members, and Subprogram leader to biannual Steering Committee meetings 5. Coordinate the preparation of Subprogram media releases and workshop publications 6. Integrate with other FRDC funded rock lobster research programs including the FRDC Enhancement and Aquaculture Subprogram 7. Coordinate the preparation and distribution of a biannual Subprogram newsletter 8. Develop and maintain a strategic plan for post-harvest rock lobster research 9. Continually supervise the scientific studies within the Subprogram Read moreRead less
Aquatic Animal Health Subprogram: Production Of A Training Video On Aquatic Animal Disease Emergency Management
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$4,500.00
Summary
Objectives: 1. consultancy on researching and writing specifications for the production of a training video on aquatic animal disease emergency management.
ESD Reporting And Assessment Subprogram: A Social Assessment Handbook For Use By Australian Fisheries Managers In ESD Assessment And Monitoring
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$132,264.00
Summary
Social assessment is an area of fisheries management that has received little attention and has been identified as a priority by the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture (SCFA). Assessing social impacts can inform the choice between management options that have similar resource and economic outcomes, but which may have significantly different social impacts. Additionally, understanding the social implications of fisheries management decisions or policy approaches may enable co-ordin ....Social assessment is an area of fisheries management that has received little attention and has been identified as a priority by the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture (SCFA). Assessing social impacts can inform the choice between management options that have similar resource and economic outcomes, but which may have significantly different social impacts. Additionally, understanding the social implications of fisheries management decisions or policy approaches may enable co-ordinated government approaches that eases transitions associated with any structural adjustment processes in the industry.
The project will produce a Handbook that will enable all Australian fisheries to finalise their SCFA assessment process using an approach to social assessment that is consistent with the issues and values articulated in Section 6 “Impacts of the Fishery on Community Wellbeing” and Section 7 “Impacts of the Fishery on National socio-economic benefits”. The Handbook will provide a social assessment framework and guidance on methods/approaches for each stage of a social assessment that will assist practitioners to develop skills and confidence to undertake or commission assessments. Use of the Handbook will also facilitate increased awareness of potential social impacts and improve the planning and management of social impacts, amongst fisheries managers. This project includes a case study to trial the Handbook and will provide an illustration of the application of social assessment principles and practices.
The Handbook will be useful to both fisheries managers, to facilitate resource use decisions, and to the industry through providing a further basis for discussion and negotiation around resource use and access. Objectives: 1. Provide a user friendly “how to” Handbook for practitioners that will include:1) A framework outlining the scope and content of social assessments for fisheries management;2) Describe the range of methods or approaches that can be employed at different stages of a social assessment; 3) Provide an assessment of the relative strengths and limitations of different methods and approaches; 2. Undertake a case study to1) Refine and trial the social assessment principles and approaches contained in the Handbook;2) Modify the Handbook where necessary for final publication, to ensure ease of use by both fisheries managers and industry. Read moreRead less
Aquatic Animal Health Subprogram: The Revision Of The Tasmanian Fish Health Plan And Incorporation Into The Tasmanian Control Centre Manual
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$9,996.00
Summary
There is a need to train industry in disease control strategies that will also contribute to the effectiveness of emergency control activities. The areas where this will have greatest impact are field activities and industry liaison. There is also a need to train existing government agencies skilled in areas of emergency response to effectively respond to aquatic animal diseases.
Field activities are determined by the cause of the emergency, species involved and the communities affecte ....There is a need to train industry in disease control strategies that will also contribute to the effectiveness of emergency control activities. The areas where this will have greatest impact are field activities and industry liaison. There is also a need to train existing government agencies skilled in areas of emergency response to effectively respond to aquatic animal diseases.
Field activities are determined by the cause of the emergency, species involved and the communities affected. Considering Tasmania’s population and accompanying financial constraints there is a need for emergency response personnel to be trained and available for action in both terrestrial and aquatic environments.
Objectives: 1. Revision of the Tasmanian Fish Health Plan ensuring current relevance to Tasmania with special reference to stakeholder liaison. 2. Incorporation of the Tasmanian Fish Health Plan into the Tasmanian Animal Disease Emergency Management Plan and the Tasmanian Control Centre Manual. 3. Audit the resulting version of the Tasmanian Control Centre Manual according to National Performance Standards. Read moreRead less
Aquatic Animal Health Subprogram: Revision And Expansion Of The Australian Aquatic Animal Disease Identification Field Guide For Publishing To CD ROM
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$19,961.00
Summary
A revision of the original Field Guide is necessary to update information in respect of recent changes to the National List as well as an increase in knowledge of diseases currently covered by original Field Guide. The revised Field Guide also needs to target a more technical audience than that of the original version and will be upgraded accordingly. Production of the Field Guide on CD ROM provides an excellent opportunity for wider and more efficient dissemination.
Objectives: ....A revision of the original Field Guide is necessary to update information in respect of recent changes to the National List as well as an increase in knowledge of diseases currently covered by original Field Guide. The revised Field Guide also needs to target a more technical audience than that of the original version and will be upgraded accordingly. Production of the Field Guide on CD ROM provides an excellent opportunity for wider and more efficient dissemination.
Objectives: 1. To update information in the existing Australian Aquatic Animal Disease Identification Field Guide, with improved data and to expand on the technical aspects of disease aetiology, diagnostics and response options, while remaining relevant to the non-technical audience 2. To produce the revised Field Guide in a cost-effective and easily distributed format Read moreRead less