Uptake of particles derived from seaweed by Mytilus edulis

To contribute to the sustainable food transition, make efficient use of the Dutch North Sea and enhance biodiversity there is growing attention for stimulating the aquaculture sector in the Netherlands. A way of sustainable and space-efficient aquaculture is by combining the cultivation of different species, for example; seaweed and bivalves. Nutrients released by mussels are thought to stimulate the growth of seaweed, an example of how mussels can influence seaweed when grown in a co-cultivation system. But, are there also ways in which seaweed affect mussels? Due to erosion of seaweed, seaweed particles end up in the environment. Are these particles taken up by mussels, and if so, how does the incorporation of seaweed in their diet affect the mussels? Before these question can be answered there is still some essential work to do. 

The research you will conduct during this period will focus on performing feeding trials with mussels (Mytilus edulis) and studying the effect of incorporating seaweed particles in their diet. Both the performance of the mussels, as well as their chemical composition will be analyzed to study the effect of different treatments. Treatments that can be thought of are; using different species of seaweed, various sizes of seaweed particles and the way of processing the seaweed (dried, fresh, soaked) etc. During this research project you are expected to dive into the subject, work on the experimental set-up, perform the experiments and use your results to write a report.

Requirements

Are you a master student or HBO student and do you have a background or affinity with marine biology and are you looking for an internship or thesis subject to gain hands-on experience in this interesting field? Then this opportunity might be for you! Requirements are: Interest in marine ecology; good organizing and social skills; attention to detail; lab skills (pipetting, working a flow hood); experience with experimental design; basic knowledge of R.

Location is NIOZ Yerseke (housing can be arranged if applicable). Duration; minimum of four months. Start date; September/October 2024.

Contact

When working at the NIOZ you will have the opportunity to experience working in a team of passionate and motivated colleagues who are working in a wide field of research. If you got enthusiastic about the project description and recognize yourself in the following description; passionate, resourceful, curious and not afraid to get your hands dirty, then contact me to discuss the possibilities: femke.van.nimwegen@nioz.nl.