Molecular-based dietary analysis of marine bivalve larvae.
Objectives
To maintain sustainable expansion of the shellfish sector the demand for shellfish seed, which already outstrips supply for some species; and the threat posed by biotoxins which has resulted in prolonged closure of shellfisheries in some areas must be addressed. This project will use molecular fingerprinting techniques to provide data of significance on both these issues. Knowledge of which phytoplankton species are consumed by shellfish larvae in nature should allow larval diets for use in shellfish hatcheries to be tailor-made for the different shellfish species under culture.
Understanding larval diets may also help to identify the phytoplankton species that are responsible for AZP toxicity and support the introduction of early warning systems for these potentially toxic species.
Duration
2007-2010
Partners/Collaborators
Dr. Sarah Culloty, University College Cork
Dr. P. Hess, Marine Institute
Iarfhlaith Connellan, Cartron Point Shellfish Ltd.
Funding Agency
Higher Education Authority Technological Sector Research Programme - Strand III
2008 Maloy, A.P., Culloty, S.C., Slater, J.W.
Use of PCR-DGGE to study the natural diet of marine bivalves.
Presented at 100th Centenary Conference of National Shellfish Association, Providence, Rhode Island, U.S.A. 6th – 10th April 2008.
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