Masters of Applied Science Marine Biology and Entomology student Sabrina Hall will present a poster detailing her research for the first time at the 22nd International Congress of Entomology Conference, due to be held in Brisbane between August 15 and 21.

Sabrina's poster will focus on the fly species responsible for infestations of marine turtle nests and the effects their larvae are having on turtle nest productivity.

Due to the entomology focus of the conference, Mrs Hall said the poster will focus on all of the entomology facets of her research, and will put less emphasis on marine turtles.

Presenting a poster allows new researchers to present their results and obtain feedback for the first time in an open forum situation.

Sabrina said the conference will provide networking opportunities, a chance to see what other research is being done in her field and links with professional contacts.

Earlier this year, the Rockhampton-based Masters candidate spent a week on Peak Island, a continental island offshore from Keppel Sands.

She has been seeking clues to show whether the fly larvae are predators of turtle eggs, or whether they are scavengers who play a role in cleaning up the nest.

"Not much is known about the maggots\' effects on the hatching success of a turtle nest," she said.

"I'm investigating this process in three species of sea turtle, and on Peak Island the focus is on the endemic flatback turtle.".

Ms Hall's research involves minute inspection of the contents of turtle nests.

ENDS.

For details: Sabrina Hall, phone 4923 2068 or via s.hall@cqu.edu.au.

- submitted by Marion Thomson.