Australian zeolite for ammonia control in aquarium fish tanks
Investigate the use of Australian zeolite for ammonia control in aquarium fish tanks: water and feed inclusion.
The aim of this project is to determine the effects of in water and in feed application of zeolite powder for the control of ammonia in aquarium fish display tanks.
'New tank syndrome' or toxic ammonia build up after establishment of a new tank setup is a common and fatal problem for aquarium fish. Ammonia is constantly produced as a nitrogenous waste from fish and without the appropriate biological flora in a new tank set up, ammonia is not converted to less toxic nitrate.
Zeolite is naturally occurring ion exchange clay that absorbs ammonia from freshwater. Addition of zeolite powder to water and mixed in feed may help aquarist to manage new tank syndrome.
Key methodology: This project aims to establish the activity of a commercial zeolite powder and test its possible applications as a water additive or as a dietary supplement.
Study pathobiology, infectious disease and public health
Get involved in research projects that aim to increase the understanding of disease agents and their effects, leading to the development of better diagnostic tools for their detection.
Projects are available in a broad range of areas, including Tasmanian Devil Facial Tumour disease and aquatic animal health, particularly farmed, ornamental and research fish populations.
Supervisor
Research area: Pathobiology, infectious disease and public health
Recommended honours enrolment: Honours in Animal Science