EADIN: Expert Assistance and Distance Identification
Network
Investigators:
Dr. Edward Phlips, University of Florida, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic
Sciences
Dr. Shirley Baker, University of Florida, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic
Sciences
Leslie Sturmer, University of Florida, Cooperative Extension Service
Funding:
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cooperative State Research, Education, and
Extension Service
Time Period: 2001 - 2005
Objectives: The goal of
EADIN is to provide local shellfish growers and harvesters, as well as the
general public, with expert assistance on environmental issues that concern
them. Special emphasis will be placed on providing a rapid access network for
identification of potentially problematic algae and other shellfish related
issues. The principle objective of this project is to implement the systems and
protocols developed in the initial EADIN Project at two major clam industry
areas in Florida. Through this project clam producers can become aware of
changes in the composition of the biological community and make informed
decisions on management practices based on these data.
The working core of EADIN is the
microscope and sample preservation facilities at extension offices located near
major centers for clam farming. Microscopes with digital cameras will provide
the basic technology for examination of biological samples. Clam farmers will be
able to bring samples to the facilities for visual and microscopic examination
and preliminary identification using simple keys. Digital images of samples will
then be electronically transferred to experts in Gainesville for confirmation of
identifications. Facilities will be established for the preservation and
archiving of samples for further analysis. This system will potentially be used
to deal with a wide range of issues, including: 1) identifying the presence of
harmful and beneficial algal species, 2) determining the character of macroalgal
infestations, and 3) revealing the presence of potentially destructive predators
of shellfish.
Accomplishments to Date:
Microscopes equipped with digital imagery and camera facilities were established
at the UF Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences and the Cedar Key
Shellfish Extension Office. In 2003 a system and protocol were developed for
rapid identification of biological samples, in particular phytoplankton. The
setup was field-tested using the proposed protocol and samples were archived for
future reference. During 2004 implementation will include training and
information workshops aimed at educating local shellfish growers on the
essential operational aspects of EADIN. This will link industry members with UF
Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences experts on the ecology and biology
of the Big Bend region.
The goal of
EADIN is to provide local shellfish growers and harvesters, as well as the
general public, with expert assistance on environmental issues that concern
them. Special emphasis will be placed on providing a rapid access network for
identification of potentially problematic algae and other shellfish related
issues. The principle objective of this project is to implement the systems and
protocols developed in the initial EADIN Project at two major clam industry
areas in Florida. Through this project clam producers can become aware of
changes in the composition of the biological community and make informed
decisions on management practices based on these data.
The working core of EADIN is the
microscope and sample preservation facilities at extension offices located near
major centers for clam farming. Microscopes with digital cameras will provide
the basic technology for examination of biological samples. Clam farmers will be
able to bring samples to the facilities for visual and microscopic examination
and preliminary identification using simple keys. Digital images of samples will
then be electronically transferred to experts in Gainesville for confirmation of
identifications. Facilities will be established for the preservation and
archiving of samples for further analysis. This system will potentially be used
to deal with a wide range of issues, including: 1) identifying the presence of
harmful and beneficial algal species, 2) determining the character of macroalgal
infestations, and 3) revealing the presence of potentially destructive predators
of shellfish. 
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