Queensland’s protected groper fish are washing up dead along Northern Queensland beaches and researchers believe the bacterium species Streptococcus agalactiae is responsible. The underlying cause behind the infectious nature of the bacteria is yet to be identified.
“We need a better understanding of the groper’s immune system, where the bacteria come from, and how and why they cause diseases in gropers and other marine animals,” University of Queensland’s Dr Barnes said.
The researchers hope the results from studying the gropers will provide them with information on how to counteract the effects of the bacteria.
Read more at The University of Queensland