Aquaculture currently supplies half of the seafood for global human consumption and is projected to grow in the near future in order to cope with increasing demands. However, the aquaculture industry is facing several challenges concerning the growth and sustainability of the industry.

One such issue is avoiding disease outbreaks and maintaining sustainable feed-stocks for cultured fish. There is increasing evidence that an animal's gut microbiota is important for host development, digestion, disease resistance and health.

In this project, we work closely with scientists at the NSW DPI Port Stephens Fisheries Institute (PSFI) to understand the importance of gut health and how healthy microbiota develop in commercially important aquaculture species. Recent findings demonstrate a strong correlation between gut microbes and those associated with a given feed-stock. The next phase of this project will be to develop strategies to augment these microbes and/or deliver beneficial probiotic consortia specific to the individual species' health and digestive needs.  

People

Associate Professor | Postgraduate Coordinator Suhelen Egan
Associate Professor | Postgraduate Coordinator
opens in a new window

Related

Antibiotic resistance in the marine environment

This project uses microbiological approaches to discover new genes for antibiotic resistance. Find out more.

Bio-prospecting marine microbial diversity for new antimicrobial drugs

Novel bioactives can be used widely to address antibiotic resistance. We examine these microbial communities to discover new therapies.

Improving technologies for inland aquaculture in Papua New Guinea

This project provides support and training for PNG farming communities, helping them to increase protein consumption through fish farming.