Research Questions/Objectives:
This study will aim to investigate the presence and quantity of the biomarker VTG in blood and skin mucus of barramundi during different developmental stages. Specific antibodies will be generated against purified VTG and used in different biochemical and immunological assays to determine sex change. This study will provide fundamental information about the modulation of this central biomarker of sex change in fish.
Brief Description of the Project:
Sex control is the most important factors for the commercialisation and efficient propagation of fish species. Without the ability to regulate sexual differentiation, maturation, and reproduction, there is little control over breeding processes. Sex determination and differentiation in fish is an evolutionarily diverse and highly plastic developmental process which leads to great challenges when trying to develop a general understanding of sex in fish.
Sex is not only determined through genetic factors but also by the environment. Barramundi fish change sex from male to female only after 4 or more years, and this is a major challenge for the growing aquaculture industry in Australia. Determining the sex of barramundi is not possible through visual observations, but can be achieved through measurement of biomarkers. Vitellogenins (VTGs) are large phospholipoproteins that serve as a source of lipid and protein egg yolk nutrients in many vertebrates and fish. They are produced in the liver, usually in response to female hormones, but can also be detected in some males. The VTGs seem to differ between fish species but specific antibodies can be used to distinguish and quantify VTG in fish.
Background and Significance of the Research Question to drought risk, vulnerability, preparedness, or resilience:
The resilience and preparedness of the barramundi aquaculture industry in Australia are closely tied to its ability to manage biological factors like sex differentiation. This study’s focus on understanding and controlling sex change in barramundi directly contributes to the resilience of aquaculture operations by enabling more predictable and efficient breeding cycles. Without control over sex differentiation, production systems remain vulnerable to inefficiencies caused by delayed maturation and sex change, which can lead to uneven stock availability, increased costs, and reduced output.
Moreover, barramundi aquaculture could be more prepared to handle external stressors such as drought or environmental changes if breeding control is optimized. During periods of drought, where water availability is limited, more efficient breeding and propagation strategies can help maintain production levels. By using biomarkers like Vitellogenin (VTG) to monitor and manage sex change, this research could help create resilient systems that are better equipped to cope with environmental challenges, ensuring sustainable production despite vulnerability to environmental factors like water scarcity.
In this way, the study supports long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of climate-related risks, including drought.
Academic and research experience relevant to the honours project:
Throughout my bachelor’s degree, I have consistently maintained a high academic standard, with a current GPA of 6.38. This semester, I have been working on a minor research project under the supervision of Dean Jerry and Jarrod Guppy, focused on validating commercial ELISAs for detecting estrogen and cortisol in barramundi plasma. If these kits prove to be sufficiently accurate, I plan to incorporate them into my honors project next year.
Principal Supervisor’s skills and experience in relation to this project topic:
Professor Dean Jerry’s extensive skills and experience are highly relevant to my project. As a globally recognized expert in aquaculture, Prof. Jerry has significant experience in applying genetic technologies to enhance farmed aquatic species, making him well-versed in the biological and genetic aspects critical to my research. His leadership in developing genetic tools and aquatic animal health solutions, including pathogen testing facilities, demonstrates his expertise in advanced technologies used to monitor and improve fish health.
Additionally, Prof. Jerry’s long-standing involvement with industry and research partnerships, coupled with his success in securing significant external funding, highlights his capability to guide complex, applied research projects like mine. His pioneering work in environmental DNA technologies also complements my research by reinforcing the importance of innovative biochemical tools in aquaculture.
I grew up in Darwin, where I spent most of my childhood fishing, camping, and exploring the outdoors. I have always had a passion for marine biology and all things ocean-related, and in 2022, I decided to pursue this interest by moving to Townsville for university. It was my dad who first suggested incorporating aquaculture as a second major after hearing about the success of Humpty Doo Barra, a local fish farm in Darwin.
Aquaculture quickly became a passion of mine for many reasons. Not only does it help reduce pressure on wild fish stocks, but it also creates unique job opportunities and drives economic growth in regional communities. I’m especially drawn to the practical applications of aquaculture research, where findings can be directly implemented on farms to improve sustainability and efficiency. I have a strong interest in reproductive physiology, as it plays a crucial role in the success of farms and the growth of the industry. Improving fertility rates, egg quality, larval survival, and managing sex change in species like barramundi are all essential for optimising production.
Future Career Goals:
After graduation, I plan to continue working in reproductive physiology, focusing on projects that optimise breeding techniques. In the future, I hope to pursue a PhD, allowing me to lead my own research projects and contribute further to the field.
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