Bioeroding Sponge Research

Pearl oysters (Pinctada maxima) harvested from wild stocks are experiencing high levels of infestation of bioeroding sponges (Cliona spp.) imposing a multi-million dollar cost to the industry. Scientists of the Department are work closely with Dr Jane Fromont (WA Museum) who is an expert in sponge taxonomy and ecology. Preliminary samples have been collected during the 2004 and 2005 season to develop sampling and screening techniques. More comprehensive sampling is planned for the following two seasons. Samples are initially screened for the presence of Cliona spiculae and than further processed using histology. This project aims to * Develop a field guide to identify bioeroding sponges in pearl oyster samples * Develop sampling techniques for estimating the biomass and reproductive capacity of bioeroding sponges in pearl oyster shells and benthic substrates. * Estimate the effect of size/ age and location on infection rate of bioeroding sponges in the wild stocks of pearl oysters. * Establish a sponge infestation database, including both oysters and habitat.Time : ends 2007