areas of 
research

This core transformational component of the project focuses on developing high-intensity, onshore recirculation aquaculture systems. Innovation in culture vessel design, in-tank structures, flow dynamics and control systems will be critical to lobster husbandry, animal health and water quality. New solutions to achieve physical and biological waste water remediation will focus on the use of ozone and algal treatment solutions.

A major opportunity exists to develop and commercialise innovative feeds for onshore lobster aquaculture and the existing sea-cage industry, which currently relies on fresh seafood with its associated sustainability and bio-security risks. This project will examine lobster feeding behaviour and the delivery of nutritional imperatives to develop specialised feeds that will support growth, health and production efficiencies, thus minimising a major industry risk.

The project will aim to develop physiological and molecular tools for disease diagnostics, quality assessments and protecting breeding gains. Tools will contribute to the production of high quality certified disease-free lobster seedstock of uniform size and vitality. Determining optimal nutritional, physiological and environmental parameters for lobster seedstock will be critical to delivering successful transport and commercial lobster growout.

The project aims to investigate industry adoptability, social acceptability and environmental sustainability of onshore lobster aquaculture systems. Understanding these social, economic and ecological dimensions is critical for maximising the benefit of tools developed in this project, meeting sustainability and community expectations, as well as facilitating profitable industry transformation and technology transfer.