Research topics

Parasites represent a large component of the often unseen biodiversity, although their impact on host organisms, such as intertidal snails, can lead to ecosystem level alterations. These include changes in algal cover, species distributions and trophic interactions. We aim to better understand the influence of parasites on a wide range of host organisms occupying the intertidal zone.

Host-parasite interactions can affect the quality and quantity of fishery products, posing an economical burden for the fishing industry. We examine the effects of an unsightly isopod parasite, Bopyrus squillarum, on the common prawn Palaemon serratus. In the Galway Bay prawn fishery high parasite prevalence has been detected and we are currently investigating the prevalence at other sites around Ireland. Furthermore, as the parasite inhabits the gill chamber of the prawn we are studying the pressure it may exert on the host’s respiratory system. It is likely that this parasite adds a financial constraint to the fishery through issues relating to the processing time and the final appearance and marketability of the product. We are gaining greater insights into this host-parasite interaction through a number of ongoing observational and experimental projects.

The main aims of this project, evaluating the disease status of several crustacean species, reflect the importance of these species as components of both marine biodiversity and bio-resources. These aims are to:

· Establish the biology and ecology of a variety of microparasite species

· Evaluate the impact of microparasite infections on crustacean health for a number of economically valuable crustacean species

· Investigate the transmission of microparasite infections in crustaceans

· Outline actions to be implemented by the fishing industry, in order to reduce the incidence of microparasite infection