Exploring the potential of sponge aquaculture in Torres Strait (T1.6)
Ms Elizabeth Evans-Illidge, AIMS
The project will provide the foundation for new aquaculture industry
in Torres Strait based on realising potential to supply global commercial
bath sponge markets. It will identify candidate species and experimentally
establish their potential as aquaculture targets. It will provide proof
of concept at a commercial scale incorporating market and business model
realities. Work will include fundamental ecology of target species, to
describe population dynamics, reproductive attributes, and optimal methods
of seed supply, in-culture growth and survivorship. Potential environmental
effects and management options will be identified.
Target markets in cosmetic, bathroom, or industrial sectors have existed
since early Grecian times, but are now under supplied. Suitable species
will belong to the Order Dictyoceratida (sponges with pure collagen skeletons).
The major outcome of this project will be the establishment of new ventures
for regional communities in Torres Strait allowing elaboration of value
adding industry and a wide range of educational opportunities. Collaborative
involvement of communities will be sought from the outset, with a view
to fast transition of ‘ownership’ of the venture. The project
will host associated traineeships and post graduate scholarships, and
conduct other appropriate technology transfer to ensure acquisition of
skills and capability to maintain and grow the enterprises.
Objectives
- Through a Torres Strait wide survey of Dictyoceratid sponges and
consultation with community leaders, identify a short list of candidate
species and locations to develop commercial sponge aquaculture enterprise
to supply the international commercial bath sponge market.
- Develop aquaculture methods for optimal and environmentally sustainable
commercial production of up to two target sponge species in at least
one location selected for the project.
- Develop the knowledge base for sustainable management of natural populations
of target species for seed stock supply, and methods for monitoring
and managing any environmental effects of commercial production of sponges.
- Transfer technology developed to relevant Torres Strait communities,
including effective extension exercises, hosting traineeships, providing
technical advice in the development of formal educational material,
encouraging Torres Strait Islander candidates for the post-graduate
scholarships, and other appropriate methods.
Outcomes
- New Industry potentially involving up to 100 small farming units
targeting commercial bath sponges in the Torres Strait region
- Identification of Australia as a source of novel products from the
sea
Integration of new aquaculture ventures with traditional marine farms
and industry
- Traditional ownership of innovative new industry as a platform for
business elaboration and education
- Identification of new Torres Strait marine resources and informed
marine planning
|
