The University of Tasmania in collaboration with Inland Fisheries Service (IFS) and NRM North has recently secured research funding from the Australian Research Council (ARC) to genetically control Gambusia.

The Gambusia is a pest fish of national concern and in Tasmania it is currently restricted around the Tamar Island Wetland Reserve (TIWR) in the Tamar estuary. The Gambusia was introduced into Australia more than 100 years ago to combat malaria. However, it was ineffective in controlling mosquito populations, but has bred prolifically and caused extensive damage to the native aquatic fauna – eating endangered fish and frog larvae and also the adults.

The funding is a significant leverage to the IFS resource commitments (1:4), towards addressing this important fisheries management challenge. UTas will be the lead research agency with contributions and participation form IFS, NRM North and volunteer groups at TIWR.

The outcomes of the project will be of national and international significance.