Meet Karthiga Kumanan

As part of Aquatic Animal Health team at the Cawthron Institute, Karthiga works closely with New Zealand’s aquaculture industry to investigate marine and freshwater disease issues. Her research primarily involves disease diagnosis, identifying disease causality, investigating host-pathogen interactions, and working with the aquatic disease surveillance team for routine health checks. As part of Cawthron’s Emerging Aquatic Diseases research programme, Karthiga and the team actively collaborate with aquaculture industries, wild fisheries, the Department of Conversation (DoC), and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), working towards a shared goal of protecting aquatic life in Aotearoa.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

“ My passion for animal health and love for water (ocean, lakes, ponds, rivers) makes me perfect for this work. While it can be challenging working with unpredictable disease and pathogens, it is rewarding to be part of the solution for our industry partners and to improve the wellbeing and health of aquatic animals in Aotearoa. ”

How did you come to be involved in aquaculture?

“ My career started as a registered pharmacist in Malaysia, very different to aquatic health. After practicing pharmacy for a year, I pursued my studies in Biotechnology majoring in genetics and microbiology. Before completing my final exam, I was fortunate enough to secure a role as a microbiologist in Australian Tiger prawn (Penaeus monodon) aquaculture. I had the opportunity to start my early career in the beautiful Cardwell - a coastal town in North Queensland where the rainforest meets the ocean. During my time with the tiger prawn industry, I worked closely with the Australian Tiger prawn Association and the Queensland Government's Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. I was responsible for routine health monitoring of animals, harmful algal identification, environmental monitoring to comply with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and was involved in screening and surveillance for exotic pests and pathogen in aquaculture and wild crustaceans. My passion for the aquatic world has enabled me to carve a career of purpose. ”

Why do you think WoAA is important?

“ Kaimoana is an integral part of Aotearoa and the government’s ambition of making aquaculture a $3 billion-a-year industry by 2035 would significantly contribute to creating high-value careers in the sector. WoAA can play an important role in empowering women of Aotearoa to contribute towards the nation’s grand goal. This is a great platform to promote “wahine in fisheries” and younger generations to engage in income generating activities, as well as build gender equity and social inclusion in the Aotearoa aquaculture sector. ”

Do you have any advice or support for women working in or looking to work in aquaculture in Aotearoa?

“ Knowledge is your most valuable asset which gives you self-fulfilment and confidence. Develop a thirst for learning and development. ”

“The most alluring thing a woman can have is confidence.” — Beyoncé

Check out the links and publications to learn more about Karthiga’s work and career achievements.