SCRC: PhD: Reducing the taint in barramundi farmed in recirculating freshwater systems

Funded Activity Summary

Inconsistent quality of farmed barramundi (pond or recirculation system) in the marketplace has
been identified by ABFA as a major issue causing buyer resistance and negative market impacts.
This is limiting realisation of full revenue return for farmed barramundi. The inconsistency in
quality is mainly associated with the presence of ‘earthy’ or ’muddy’ taints derived from
planktonic and benthic algae (particularly cyanobacteria), fungi and actinomycetes which are
known to produce geosmin (GSM) and 2-methyl isoborneol (MIB). These compounds impart
muddy, earthy, musty odour, detectable by the human palate when present at extremely low
concentrations in water and fish, and not favoured by consumers (Percival et al., 2008).
This project aims to develop an algae-taint production model for recirculation systems. This
innovative approach will provide clear and measurable direction for reducing taint compound
levels through provision of a practical management tool. Its use will significantly improve
knowledge of the balance between water quality, algicide use and purging time and conditions,
and taint variability.

Funded Activity Details

Start Date: 31-07-2011

End Date: 30-06-2013

Funding Scheme: Funding Scheme not available

Funder: Fisheries Research and Development Corporation

Research Topics

ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)

There are no FoR codes available for this funding activity

ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)

There are no SEO codes available for this funding activity

Other Keywords

Aquaculture | Marketing | Recirculation System | Seafood Quality | Water quality

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