This year's project focuses on Velvet fish disease and the dangers this disease poses to both fish and humans following contraction. We have designed a biosensor to detect velvet disease in water before it can spread to other fish or be contracted by humans. Although our project addresses the negative side of fish biology, we want to enlighten children with the fascinating lifestyle of fish. Our book is a tool written for a child audience to provide education regarding fish life. We wanted to create a book that was easy to read and understand while communicating insightful ideas. Topics explored in our book include the physical characteristics of fish, breathing methods, habitat, communication, and group names. We hope children gain information from our short story and use it to understand fish traits. All the information in the book can be applied in a classroom setting and used as starting info for children hoping to purchase their first pet fish. The purpose of our book is not only to educate but to form excitement and interest in aquatic life. We want children to think about how fish are involved in their own lives and build an interest in marine life that may lead to a future in aquaculture.

Over the summer, we gathered as a team and hosted a fish potluck. Each team member was instructed to make a fish dish reflecting their culture and bring it to the potluck for everyone to share. As part of this gathering, we recorded the recipes for the dishes served at the potluck. We have compiled the recipes and created a short book filled with each. Our recipe book represents the diversity in the cultural backgrounds of our team members and the fantastic foods that come from each background. We discussed our project during our potluck and the importance of disease-free fish when making food. Fish is involved in the cooking of various meals. The aquaculture industry is rapidly expanding. The need for rapid tests available for farmers and fish owners is critical and would play a vital role in reducing the risk of human contraction of fish diseases. We understand the importance of healthy fish and hope our biosensor prevents the further spread and contraction of harmful fish diseases. Download Recipes