Copper (Cu) is a harmful contaminant in freshwater systems, the concentration of which is being increased by human activity. The impact of elevated copper on fish, particularly during the larval development stage, is not well understood. This work identified the eye organ of a native fish, Mogurnda adspersa, as being particularly sensitive to increased Cu concentrations.
Our research
Understanding the sublethal effects of environmental contaminants is important for informing guidelines and regulations.
Determining sublethal effects in early life stages such as sacfry and larval forms is particularly important as the consequences for development and growth, reproduction and overall survival can be much greater.
Our impact
The information from this study can now be used to help develop strategies to preserve the Rock art. Most importantly, we need to act now to stop global temperature increases and drastically cut emissions. Minimising the impacts of climate change will help preserve the incredible artworks Australasia’s earliest people left to us.