Facilities

In the Langoustine Lab we have a range of facilities for assessing the biological features of langoustines. Through our links with the UMBSM Millport Marine Station and its research vessels the RV Aora and RV Aplysia, we also have the ability to use various standard gear types, both static and mobile, to capture langoustines on various grounds both in the Clyde Sea Area and elsewhere on the West coast of Scotland.

Aquaria

We have marine aquaria for holding animals in communal tanks or in isolation while assessments are made of their survival or health status.

Cold storage

We have various refrigerated stores for holding specimens or material that are sent to us. These include chill cabinets operating around 0 degrees C and freezers operating at both -20 degrees C and -80 degrees C.

Biochemistry

We have a full range of equipment for performing biochemical assays of the body composition of langoustines, including their proximate composition, blood components, energy reserves, immunological status and residues of heavy metals and other contaminants. Specialised equipment for use in these determinations include HPLC systems and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometers.

Microbiology

We perform standard microbiological techniques for the determination of the bacterial flora found in langoustines suffering from various disease conditions, and during post mortem changes in muscle.

Molecular Biology

We have access to molecular biology facilities for the determination of the genetic identity of different populations of langoustines, and for confirming the presence of microbes, parasites and other foreign organisms that may be threatening their health status.