John McKiernan 
Position: Honours Student (completed 2003)
Education:
- 2000 Bachelor of Science, University of Queensland
- 2000 Bachelor of Arts, University of Queensland
Research Interests: Vector biology and coral reef ecology
Awards & Grants:
- 1999 Exchange Bursary
- 1996, 1997, 1998, Dean's List
Honours Project: Distribution of ectoparasitic gnathiids & haemogregarine blood parasites on epaulette sharks
John sampled the distribution of ectoparasitic gnathiids and haemogregarine (protozoan) blood parasites on the epaulette shark Hemiscyllium ocellatum. The main aim was to examine the ecology and biology of gnathiids on elasmobranchs, the role of gnathiids in transmitting blood parasites to fish, and whether these blood parasites affect the physiology of epaulette sharks. Supervisors: Dr Lexa Grutter and Dr Craig Franklin.
John is currently studying medicine.
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Hemiscullium ocellatum |
John at Heron Island |
Blood smear with parasites |
Publications:
McKiernan, J.P., Grutter, A.S., Davies, A.J. (2005) Reproductive and feeding ecology of parasitic gnathiid isopods of epaulette sharks (Hemiscyllium ocellatum) with consideration of their role in the transmission of a haemogregarine. Journal of International Parasitology. 35: 19-27.