The species

Prawns and rock lobsters
AIMS is actively researching reproduction, closed life cycle and genetic improvement of prawns, and larval development and closing the life cycle of rock lobsters. Environmental research is focussed on prawn farm discharge and interactions with the coastal seas.

Pearl oyster, beche-de-mer and giant clams
The genetic diversity in wild and cultured populations is being assessed in a range of these species.

Copepods
Copepods are widely recognised as the preferred prey for larval fish in the wild. AIMS is developing methods to culture these planktonic organisms in large numbers.

Finfish
Live feeds for tropical fish are being developed at AIMS and research on reproduction is being carried out as part of an approach to closing the life cycle.

Sponges
Sponges have been identified as important sources of pharmaceuticals and agrichemicals. Sponge aquaculture is being developed to ensure an adequate supply of these chemicals.