Dr Jian Guang Qin

Research

In this project, biomanipulation is suggested for South Australian drinking water reservoirs in order to:

1. biologically control algal blooms, and

2. conserve native fish diversity.

Algal bloom control by biomanipulation bases on enhanced zooplankton, which consumes more algae. The goal can be achieved by stocking large predatory fish which feed on small zooplankton-eating fish. Less zooplankton-eating fish will increase zooplankton grazing and reduce algal biomass. To restock Murray cod as larger predatory fish will contribute to the conservation of Australia's biodiversity. Benefits of the project will be cost efficient and sustainable control of algal blooms and conservation of native fish.  This project is funded by the ARC and the South Australian Water Corporation.

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The aim of this research is to understand the histological structure and its relation to the functional development of the digestive system in yellowtail King fish larvae.  To fulfil this research goal, the research was designed to first develop the histological techniques and enzymatic assays for detecting the structural and functional development of the digestive system in fish larvae.  Then, the research will focus on the examination of the response of the digestive system to starvation and the dietary change.  This research will gain understanding of the functional development and regulatory mechanisms of the digestive system in fish larvae.  The research is funded by the Aquafin CRC and the Playford Memorial Trust.

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Carotenoids are important pigments in the formation of body coloration in fish.  Supplementation of carotenoid in fish diet is believed to be effective to enhance body colour because some fish could ingest carotenoid and deposit it into the skin.  However, the colour performance could be also regulated by the quantity of carotenoid in diet and the background colour.  Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) is a popular tropical marine ornamental fish and the body colour greatly affects its market value. This research aims to examine the interaction between the content of carotenoid supplement in the diet and the tank background on clownfish colour development.  This research is funded by the AusAid.

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Current methods for disposing of organic waste from animal production facilities are not ecologically sound. Although organic material can be decomposed by bacteria through primary and secondary treatment, the removal of dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus remains difficult and costly. This project aims to recover nutrients in wastewater and turns the waste into useable aquaculture products. Specifically, we will use algae to absorb nutrients in the tertiary wastewater treatment, use zooplankton to eat algae, and finally turn zooplankton into fish biomass. The integration of aquaculture into wastewater treatment processes offers the potential for a cost effective and efficient solution to a pressing environmental problem.

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Microalgae are considered a source of a variety of bio-products which can be used as food additives, beverage, medicine, and biofuel. The overall objective of this research is the development of a commercially viable new rural industry for obtaining renewable hydrocarbons (petroleum products) from the alga, Botryococcus braunii (Bb), particularly suitable for the Murray Darling Basin, to augment the supplies of biodiesel for Australia and reduce the reliance on overseas oil imports.  This project aims to better understand the operating parameters for the mass production of Bb under controlled conditions, particularly under increased salinity.  Specifically, we will determine the salt tolerance of various strains of Bb and examine the link between salt tolerance, nutrient supply, light level and hydrocarbon production.  This project is funded by RIRDC.

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The process of oyster reproduction involves a high energy cost. Consequently, the post-spawning oysters often become more susceptible to pathogens.  The aim of this research is to understand the metabolic and immune responses of oyster to spawning activity and environmental factors.  This research will examine the annual change of oyster’s physiology in the field and assess oyster’s responses to food deprivation, bacterial challenge and heat shock with impact of spawning activity.  The outcome of this research would provide clues on the possible causes of oyster summer mortality in the field.

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