Seaweed aquaculture is a growing industry in Tasmania, with bull kelp (Durvillaea potatorum) identified as a key species for future development. A thorough understanding of disease risks and potential pathogens is crucial for successfully cultivating any species, including seaweed. Few studies have examined the core microbial community of D. potatorum to determine what constitutes a healthy baseline microbiome and identify changes associated with disease. This information is particularly pertinent given that aquaculture trials have commenced, and white-spot disease has already been observed in cultured populations.
This project established a baseline understanding of the microbiome and epifauna load of bull kelp in Tasmania. Samples were collected from natural populations across Tasmania during both summer and winter, as well as from kelp out-planted into aquaculture trial environments (both healthy and exhibiting white-spot disease). These samples were eDNA profiled using the Nanopore system at IMAS. Any observed epifauna on plants were collected and identified to the lowest taxonomic level. The variability in microbiome composition and epifauna loads between summer, winter, and aquaculture settings were compared to establish a baseline from which to manage future disease risk.
Amber Senysyn was the talented Master’s student who undertook this important body of work.
This project was supported financially by the MBCRC and the State Government of Tasmania.
