Research Project
Oyster Aquaculture
I started to volunteer at the UF IFAS Molluscan Shellfish Aquaculture and Restoration Lab in February 2023 until October 2023 . After months of volunteering I was award the UF IFAS internship to work as a paid lab intern. I worked under Dr. Huiping Yang, who is the principal investigator and part of UF's fisheries department.
Research Focus
The mission of this lab is to advance aquaculture production and support the restoration of shellfish populations. To achieve this, we cultivated oysters in diverse environments to identify the optimal conditions for their growth. For instance, we varied factors such as salinity, temperature, and the type of algae fed. Additionally, we used cryopreservation to preserve germplasm material for future use. A technique with wide-ranging applications, including the conservation of endangered species and the preservation of specific genetic lines.
Responsibilties
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Oyster husbandry, including feeding, siphoning tanks and health monitoring
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Conduct nitrate, nitrite, ammonia and pH water quality tests, adjust tank water levels
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Create and manage algae cultures & acid washing
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Assisted with germplasm cryopreservation of oyster gametes and larvae for breeding practices
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Collect tissue samples, dissections, and oyster spawning
