Assessment of the interactive effects of climate change, floods and discard stress on the commercially important Mud Crab (Scylla serrata) and Blue Swimmer Crab (Portunus armatus) - postgraduate

The assessment of the interactive effects of climate change, floods, and discard stress on commercially important Mud Crab and Blue Swimmer Crab offers several benefits. The project aims to understand how environmental conditions and chemical contaminants impact the physiology and body condition of these crab species. By studying these relationships, fishers can make informed decisions about fishing timing and locations to avoid compromising the survival and quality of the crabs. The project also addresses the issue of discarding, which results in crabs being discarded with increased risk of physical damage. By integrating rainfall events, agricultural runoff, and simulated discarding, the project aims to gain a comprehensive understanding of how environmental change and land-use practices affect the studied species. The project provides an opportunity for a post-graduate research student to collaborate with industry and stakeholders, resulting in scientific outputs that contribute to the knowledge base. The objectives include correlating physiological indicators with water quality parameters, assessing the effects of low salinity and pesticides, and evaluating the condition and quality of crab flesh under different environmental conditions. Overall, the project supports sustainable fishing practices and enhances our understanding of these commercially important crab species.