The aquaculture industry produces many types of aquatic plants and animals, but it can only produce a few types of the vanishing species. Factors limiting production are related to water availability, water quality, biological restraints, and insufficient knowledge. To preserve species, restore habitats, and promote a sustainable aquaculture industry are Dr. Petrell's research goals. Two problems associated with natural water systems are the continual threat of pollution and difficulty of detecting contaminates in the environment.
Many aquatic organisms can, however, grow easily and abundantly in certain types of waste.
This ability permits waste treatment, nutrient recycling and waste utilization. Some aquatic organisms could be used to inexpensively detect sewage spills and other contaminates. Currently the ability of various species of Phaeophyta to sense particular waste levels is being tested and used to develop a method to detect the zone of environmental impact of a salmon farm. Another area of research is the design of effective and sustainable aquatic production systems. Design elements must consider changing environmental condition, and its effect on growth and survival.