Development Of Molecular Detection Methods For Myxosporean Parasites Infecting Yellowtail Kingfish And Mahi Mahi
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$393,002.00
Summary
Soft flesh due to infection with myxosporean parasites irreversibly reduces the quality and market value of fish. Due to the delayed onset of the condition, infected fish can reach the consumer before soft flesh is detected, causing wastage, economic losses to affected fishers, and loss of consumer confidence.
Rapid onsite detection of myxosporean infection is vital to maximise value of landed fish, minimise environmental impacts associated with animal protein wastage, and increase prod ....Soft flesh due to infection with myxosporean parasites irreversibly reduces the quality and market value of fish. Due to the delayed onset of the condition, infected fish can reach the consumer before soft flesh is detected, causing wastage, economic losses to affected fishers, and loss of consumer confidence.
Rapid onsite detection of myxosporean infection is vital to maximise value of landed fish, minimise environmental impacts associated with animal protein wastage, and increase productivity for NSW commercial fishers, NSW fishers cooperatives and relevant fish markets.
This project focuses on outcome 2 of FRDC’s R&D plan – best practices and production systems. Fast and accurate detection of pathogens help industry identify risks faster and make informed decisions to refine and optimise best practices and production systems. There will be several benefits and impacts on society, environment, and the economy, including:
Society - fisheries productivity affects livelihoods of people working in the industry and its associated sectors - healthy and sustainable food resources Environment - reduce wastage Economic - increasing productivity through higher yields and higher market value - enhancing food/protein production improves food security and creates more employment opportunities Objectives: 1. To develop and evaluate PCR-based diagnostic tools for quantitative detection of myxosporeans in Mahi Mahi and Yellowtail Kingfish 2. To develop and evaluate in situ diagnostic tools for quantitative detection of myxosporeans in Mahi Mahi and Yellowtail Kingfish Read moreRead less
Detecting Paralytic Shellfish Toxins In Oysters - Initial Assessment Of AquaBC Rapid Test Kit
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$29,845.00
Summary
Reliable detection of marine biotoxins is a critical requirement for any effective biotoxin monitoring program, requiring any analytical technique to be properly validated. The Neogen rapid test kit for the detection of paralytic shellfish toxin (PSTs) was successfully validated in both single lab and inter-lab validations for use in oysters, offering rapid (within 20 min) on farm results. The test was used in Tasmania to reduce business risk, (i.e. frequent testing of shellfish that can rapidly ....Reliable detection of marine biotoxins is a critical requirement for any effective biotoxin monitoring program, requiring any analytical technique to be properly validated. The Neogen rapid test kit for the detection of paralytic shellfish toxin (PSTs) was successfully validated in both single lab and inter-lab validations for use in oysters, offering rapid (within 20 min) on farm results. The test was used in Tasmania to reduce business risk, (i.e. frequent testing of shellfish that can rapidly accumulate PST within a week) and employed in South Australia for regulatory purposes (low frequency of PST detection in this region).
A key factor influencing the suitability of antibody based rapid test kits is the PST profile present in the sample to be analysed. The term PST profile describes the relative concentrations of different PST analogues that might be present in each seafood sample. These profiles differ between toxic algal species, different seafood species and their tissues. Not all PST analogues are equally detected by the antibodies of different test kits (quantified as the % cross-reactivity). These cross-reactivities are critical for ensuring reliable detection across different combinations of PST analogues that might be present in shellfish.
To determine if the AquaBC rapid test kit is suitable replacement for routine monitoring, a full validation for each seafood tissue matrix would normally be conducted to determine the probability of detection curve (probability of detection across a range of PST concentrations) for multiple PST profiles, ideally followed by an inter-laboratory validation (as was conducted for the Neogen test). However, a full validation study requires repeat testing of hundreds of samples and is therefore expensive. From our previous work with the Neogen test kit, we have identified some key performance indicators that would allow for a quick initial assessment of the new AquaBC test kit, using much reduced sample numbers. These small pilot trials would include testing the most commonly encountered PST profiles (i.e. which PST toxin analogues are present) and their relative concentrations (i.e. can we reliably detect the presence of PST at the regulatory level without obtaining too many positive results at PST levels below concern?). Rather than conducting a full validation, this project will provide an initial assessment of these parameters in regard to the PST profiles commonly encountered in TAS, SA and NSW. Should this assessment be positive, a full follow up validation may be recommended. Objectives: 1. Review & identify different PST profiles that may be encountered in TAS, SA and NSW oysters. 2. Challenge the AquaBC test kit against a range of different PST concentrations and profiles to provide an initial assessment of its suitability for detecting PST in Australian oyster tissues. Read moreRead less
Environment Social Governance (ESG) Framework Plan For Fisheries And Aquaculture
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$100,000.00
Summary
The Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) is seeking support to plan and develop an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework for fisheries and aquaculture to address the requirements of several stakeholders (government, investor, consumers) and be a leader addressing key current and emerging ESG trends and expectations. The ESG Framework would cover all fisheries and aquaculture sectors (Indigenous, commercial, wild catch, and recreational).
The proposal ....The Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) is seeking support to plan and develop an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework for fisheries and aquaculture to address the requirements of several stakeholders (government, investor, consumers) and be a leader addressing key current and emerging ESG trends and expectations. The ESG Framework would cover all fisheries and aquaculture sectors (Indigenous, commercial, wild catch, and recreational).
The proposal sets our suggested approach to developing an ESG framework development plan for Australian fisheries and aquaculture. It includes our proposed methodology, budget and work plan, as well as information on our team and experience. The overarching objectives of this engagement are as follows: - Identify the unifying purpose of an ESG framework for Australian fisheries and aquaculture, the drivers that will shape it and the intended audience. - Review relevant frameworks, standards and agreements to identify existing requirements and best practice related to ESG for Australian fisheries and aquaculture. - Provide options for how the Australian fisheries and aquaculture sector could design and structure an ESG framework aligned to existing frameworks and systems, and reflecting monitoring and evaluation aspirations and the unique needs of fisheries and aquaculture. - Prepare an ESG framework development plan which clearly outlines and prioritises the steps that need to be taken to establish and build a mature framework for Australian fisheries and aquaculture.
Please refer to the attached file (Our Recommended Approach Section, pages 14 - 22) for our detailed approach based on our understanding of your needs (P0710649 Fisheries and aquaculture ESG Framework_V2_STC). Objectives: 1. To develop an ESG Framework Plan for fisheries and aquaculture covering all sectors (Indigenous, commercial wild catch, recreational fishing, aquaculture). Read moreRead less
Bringing The Iconic Australian Herring (Arripis Georgianus) To The Food Service And Retail Market – Phase One
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$70,000.00
Summary
This Australian Herring FRDC project is a strategic initiative to promote the recently recovered commercial Herring fishery. Blueshift and the commercial sector – represented by Fins Seafood and Albany Seafoods, are strong supporters of benefiting the commercial herring industry through increased demand and production. Fins Seafood focus on locally sourced seafood and have the experience and are passionate in this area, solidifying their undeniable importance to be a part of this project. This Australian Herring FRDC project is a strategic initiative to promote the recently recovered commercial Herring fishery. Blueshift and the commercial sector – represented by Fins Seafood and Albany Seafoods, are strong supporters of benefiting the commercial herring industry through increased demand and production. Fins Seafood focus on locally sourced seafood and have the experience and are passionate in this area, solidifying their undeniable importance to be a part of this project.
The project is needed to reaffirm the presence Australian Herring within the seafood market as commercial landings increase over the coming decade. If Australian Herring is successfully marketed, there is a potential for success within the local domestic market and potentially for export, if export approval is granted by the Australian Government. Furthermore, it is designed to address these challenges by providing investment for research, development, and extension initiatives aimed at improving the sustainability and profitability of the Australian Herring fishery. If successful, this proposal aims to obtain an accurate sense of the market appetite and consumer demand, as well as the potential to value-add by using local seafood processors.
Effective marketing through potential branding, introduction of new products and developing the presence of Australian Herring locally will be beneficial to industry and consumers. Furthermore, successful utilisation of all associated fish waste will bring more value and benefit to industry.
Objectives: 1. Identification of the current market demand and future demand forecasts for Australian Herring. 2. Transition Australian Herring from bait to the higher-value human consumption market. 3. Development of three value-add Australian Herring products. 4. Identification of methods of full utilisation of Australian Herring waste products. 5. Development of effective market strategies to introduce value-add Australian Herring products to the retail market. Read moreRead less
Bringing The Iconic Australian Herring (Arripis Georgianus) To The Food Service And Retail Market – Phase Two
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$169,000.00
Summary
The WA commercial herring fishery recently reopened following improvements in the stocks sustainability assessments. The product has traditionally been predominantly used for bait. This project, in partnership with herring producers, processors and retailers, will commence with a historical and current status review and consultation to better understand barriers and opportunities for commercial success of herring products for human consumption. Review of the commercial success or otherwise of ....The WA commercial herring fishery recently reopened following improvements in the stocks sustainability assessments. The product has traditionally been predominantly used for bait. This project, in partnership with herring producers, processors and retailers, will commence with a historical and current status review and consultation to better understand barriers and opportunities for commercial success of herring products for human consumption. Review of the commercial success or otherwise of similar underutilised species (such as Australian Salmon) will also be included. From this review, it is intended to identify, develop and implement three new retail and/or food service opportunities for herring for human consumption. Such opportunities, informed by the review, may be new product based (incorporating alternate processing strategies and/or 100% utilisation principles) or focussed on new marketing strategies. Evaluation for future commercial success will be economic, logistical and technical and will use evaluation metrics developed in previous projects. An enhanced use of herring for human consumption may not only increase profitability but may also lead to greater stock access for fishers. A framework for improving commercial success of such underutilised species research projects(reported in FRDC 2017/185) may be further extended by the study. Objectives: 1. Identify options to value add and (where possible) fully utilise the Australia Herring through the human consumption market 2. Investigate, implement and evaluate up to three human consumption market opportunities for Australian Herring-based products 3. Document and extend the developed supply chain framework methodology to get proposed new products to the market and explain how it can be replicable for other similar underutilised / lesser-known species Read moreRead less
Australian Fisheries And Aquaculture Statistics 2022
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$60,000.00
Summary
Statistics on Australian fisheries production and trade seeks to meet the needs of the fishing and aquaculture industry, fisheries managers, policymakers and researchers. It can assist in policy decisions, industry marketing strategies and the allocation of research funding or priorities. The gross value of production for specific fisheries are used for determining the research and development levies collected by government.
The neutrality and integrity of GVP estimates is therefore im ....Statistics on Australian fisheries production and trade seeks to meet the needs of the fishing and aquaculture industry, fisheries managers, policymakers and researchers. It can assist in policy decisions, industry marketing strategies and the allocation of research funding or priorities. The gross value of production for specific fisheries are used for determining the research and development levies collected by government.
The neutrality and integrity of GVP estimates is therefore important due to their forming the basis for research levies for each fishery. At the international level, the Department of Agriculture through the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) contributes to a number of international databases. These include databases managed by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Information at the international level can assist in international negotiations on issues such as trans-boundary fisheries and analysis of trade opportunities. Objectives: 1. To maintain and improve the data base of production, gross value of production and trade statistics for the Australian fishing industry, including aquaculture. 2. To provide these data in an accessible form. Read moreRead less
Impacts Of COVID19 On The Australian Seafood Industry: Extending The Assessment To Prepare For Uncertain Futures
Funder
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation
Funding Amount
$179,564.00
Summary
In March 2021 the FRDC published an initial rapid assessment - Impacts of COVID19 on the Australian Seafood Industry: January-June 2020 - of the direct and indirect effects of disruption to seafood production, supply chains and markets caused by the global COVID19 pandemic. That assessment covered the initial period of the shocks wrought by COVID19 and demonstrated the availability of data to support rapid assessment in such conditions.
However gaps remain to be addressed, including: < ....In March 2021 the FRDC published an initial rapid assessment - Impacts of COVID19 on the Australian Seafood Industry: January-June 2020 - of the direct and indirect effects of disruption to seafood production, supply chains and markets caused by the global COVID19 pandemic. That assessment covered the initial period of the shocks wrought by COVID19 and demonstrated the availability of data to support rapid assessment in such conditions.
However gaps remain to be addressed, including: 1. comprehensive coverage of production effects in fishing and aquaculture across all Australian jurisdictions, 2. coverage of impacts on recreational fishing activity and Indigenous commercial seafood activities; 3. assessment of emerging medium-term impacts (such as changes in Australian consumer purchasing behaviours, structural effects in labour markets and export-oriented sectors, effects of alterations in tourism patterns); and the interactions with non-CV-19 impacts (such as trade tensions affecting exports); and 4. the effectiveness of crisis responses. Furthermore, the capacity to access data to support rapid assessment in times of systemic shock needs to be consolidated. Finally, insights from rapid assessments need to be harvested to provide Australia with a framework for assessment of systemic (i.e. large-scale, multi-level) risk to the Australian seafood community.
This project addresses these needs through a follow-up Impact assessment report which is more comprehensive, given data availability. The follow up report will include case studies of crisis responses by key government and industry decision makers, and the lessons learned for preparedness for future shocks. It will develop a Guideline for rapid assessment of economic and social effects in fisheries and aquaculture, which will contribute to FRDC's capacity for rapid appraisal and assessments. The guideline will include quality assurance steps to be applied to rapid assessments. Finally, the project proposes to draw insights from this more comprehensive assessment to identify what risk factors to assess, and how, in order to prepare for systemic shocks in future. Objectives: 1. Complete assessment of impact of COVID-19 on Australia's commercial, recreational and charter fisheries and aquaculture sectors for the period July 2020 to June 2021 2. Determine what were effective responses and interventions using selected case studies to inform preparedness for future shocks 3. Document all data streams and their source (organisation, private data, public domain data) - STOP / GO MILESTONE 4. Develop guidelines for data production, governance and use when rapid situational assessments are required. 5. Develop a framework for systematic risk assessment 6. Develop 'data architecture' for a portal to access live/near-real time data to support early detection and risk assessment of large-scale shocks (architecture to include: data sources, access and permissions; display; outputs) Read moreRead less