Kate Steger, MSc,
Otionellina spp. on the Otago Shelf: Controls on distribution

The abundance and skeletal mineralogy of bryozoans has been shown to be correlated with various physical and biological parameters. Much work has been done on mineralogy of carbonate-secreting organisms, and even on mainly calcitic bryozoans. There has been little systematic study, however, on mainly aragonitic species such as Otionellina spp. of the Otago Shelf. This study will determine the distribution of the four species of Otionellina on the Otago Shelf, the factors influencing their distribution, and the variability of the geochemistry of Otionellina skeletons on the Otago Shelf.

Michelle Brunton, MSc,
Tolerance limits of hibernacula from the freshwater bryozoan Paludicella articulata

Paludicella articulata is a colonial freshwater bryozoan that grows in Southern Reservoir, Dunedin on hard surfaces in water intake pipes, floats and in the microstrainer hall. Its existence in this public water system results in clogging that is expensive and time-consuming to removal and control. P. articulata "rests" in winter in storage cells (hibernacula) until conditions allow colonial growth to restart. While much is known about the environmental tolerances of this pest species, little is known of the effect of environmental conditions on hibernacula. We aim to discover the factors, and levels of those factors, that control the germination of hibernacula, and thus make recommendations for control strategies. Understanding the practical and logistical requirements of the public water supply system is integral in being able to provide the Dunedin City Council with recommendations to control the growth of P. articulata while preserving the quality of the water supply and keeping it safe for human consumption. This work is possible through funding from the Dunedin City Council and is part of a wider programme of research conducted by AMS Research.

Ellen McCracken, MSc. (Environmental Science)
New Zealand mollusc shell geochemistry -- potential for forensic applications.

Blair Gray, PhD (currently on leave)
Characterisation of the ultrastructure and optical properties of Haliotis iris shell and pearls
Shell and pearls from the blackfoot paua (Haliotis iris) are extensively used in jewelery. An understanding of the underlying chemical and physical characteristics which result in shell colour and lustre may lead to improved production by aquaculture. In addition to investigating elemental composition, mineralogy, and ultra structure, this project will produce an objective pearl and shell colour grading system. Funded in part by a Graduates in Industry Fellowship from the Foundation for Research Science and Technology.

Oliver Gussmann, PhD
Carbonate production, preservation and budget of Halimeda (Chlorophyta: Bryopsidales) on reefs in Fiji

Coral reefs are not just made of coral; codiacean green algae such as Halimeda are important carbonate-producers in shallow tropical areas. An understanding of the processes affecting algal carbonate is critical in understanding this section of the global carbon cycle. This study investigates several Fijian species of Halimeda, and looks at production of carbonate, as well as resistance to abrasion, dissolution and bioerosion. This leads to a discussion of comparative taphonomy and preservation potential among Halimeda species, and a carbonate budget for Halimeda on two reefs in Fiji.