Globally, incidents of wildlife disease in the marine environment are increasing. Outbreaks of disease have the potential to devastate populations of wildlife. In an increasing number of cases, outbreaks have been linked to encroaching human activity and a changing environment. Marine mammal species are particularly at risk because of their low annual reproduction and sensitivity to recover from events of loss.
Antarctica is a region of significant species richness, abundance and of ecological importance. Australia lays claim to 42% of the Antarctic Continent, representing a substantial role in its future. Australia contributes to an increasing human presence on and around the region. Scientific pursuits and tourist endeavours introduce human wastes into the environment that may affect wildlife.
Antarctic wildlife as a group of organisms, have remained relatively isolated from human impacts and may be particularly at risk of infection. In recent years, potentially human-borne bacterial pathogens have been discovered in free-living Antarctic wildlife. Some of these bacteria, when present in contaminated waterways are known to cause infections in humans, domestic pets and livestock. The impact of novel pathogens in previously isolated individuals may be of particular risk to Antarctic wildlife.
There is an assumption that the cold waters of Antarctica will limit the ability of pathogens to survive, however, research has shown contrary to this. Pathogenic species have been seen to survive in Antarctic conditions, although little is known about the harm they present to wildlife.
My PhD project is investigating the microbial ecology of selected marine mammals. I am interested in learning the ability of human-introduced bacterial species to become incorporated in fauna and if this presents a health risk to the animals.
Postgraduate Room, Level 1, Samuels Building, UNSW, Kensington, 2052
Email: tiffanie_nelson@yahoo.com.au
Phone: (+61) 0425335143
