"We had a lot of things to consider from environmental impacts to market demands. For example, the shape of the mature sponges was very important in determining which farming method was selected."

AIMS scientists are very pleased with the results which support the feasibility of growing sponges in the Torres Strait.

"There are abundant wild sponge stocks in the region which recover well from seed harvest and environmental conditions seem to be optimal for growth of the seed stock. From a biological perspective, our results support the prospect of a sponge farm at Masig," said Dr Duckworth.

Local residents participated in the dive and field work components of the project which has received widespread support from the local community.

Yorke Island Community Council (YICC) is currently seeking funding to establish the farm. If successful, the project could lead to the development of other farms in the area. YICC chairman, Don Mosby, said that the community would benefit from a commercial sponge farm.

"The community has been involved in this project every step of the way and there is a lot of support to develop a commercial operation.

"We still need to put the plan through some rigorous business testing to be certain it is economically viable but at this point things are looking very promising."

AIMS scientists conducted experimental studies to determine the optimal size for the seed sponges (called explants).
Photo: Dr Alan Duckworth