Aquatic Biosecurity
The aim of the Aquatic Biosecurity Flagship is to protect freshwater and marine ecosystems from the negative environmental and economic impacts of aquatic pests and diseases and support the use of our aquatic environments now and in the future, through predicting species risks, and developing effective detection and management approaches for aquatic invasive species. This Flagship is shared across the Land and Water, and Oceans and Fisheries Science Missions.
We work with partners, end users and customers to provide the scientific basis to enable the cost-effective management of aquatic invasive species and reduce their economic impact. We will improve invasive species surveillance efficiency and refine the use of controlled environmental aquatic culture facilities to assess invasive species impacts and develop new intervention tools for field use. This research will improve efficiency and rate of target detection of invasive species by integrating taxonomy and molecular techniques with modelling approaches.
Chief Scientist - Aquatic Biosecurity: Deborah Hofstra
Deborah is a freshwater biosecurity specialist with extensive expertise in invasive species ecology and management. Her research covers risk assessment, early detection, and the development of intervention tools for invasive aquatic plants and bivalves, while evaluating ecological and non-target effects. Deborah has also led large multidisciplinary projects and developed decision-support frameworks and best-practice guidance to support operational responses and invasive species management across a range of biosecurity outcomes, from impact reduction to eradication. She is especially committed to conserving native biodiversity by improving understanding of the impacts of aquatic invasions and identifying the most effective ways to manage invasive species in support of healthy, functioning aquatic ecosystems.