Mark Cyrus

Dr. Mark Cyrus is passionate about preserving the marine environment and its resources, particularly unlocking its’ potential for aquaculture development sustainably. Dr. Cyrus, is a macroalgal researcher at James Cook University (JCU), specializing in aquaculture and Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA). He has extensive expertise in macroalgal cultivation, environmental sustainability, and aquaculture bioremediation, significantly contributing to the development of sustainable aquaculture practices. His research focuses on integrating seaweed with other marine species to enhance both productivity and environmental benefits. Other focus areas include research on new species development (particularly low tropic species), including the development of innovative culture technologies, including larval rearing techniques, system design, and nutritional research on the development of feeds and feed additives (probiotic and seaweed-supplemented diets).

Dr. Cyrus has a strong track record in interdisciplinary research, bridging marine biology, aquaculture technology, and ecological sustainability, and holds a B.Sc. (Botany), B.Sc. Honours (Ecology), and a Doctoral degree (PhD) in Biological Science (Aquaculture & Phycology) from the University of Cape Town in South Africa. 

Previously he was employed by the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), Directorate: Aquaculture Research & Development based at the “Marine Research Aquarium” in Cape Town.

What is Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA)?

Enhanced production of aquatic organisms (with or without terrestrial organisms) of two or more functional groups, that are trophically connected by demonstrated nutrient flows and whose biomass is fully or partially removed by harvesting to facilitate ecological balance.