Pearl production accounts for more than half the value of the combined Australia aquaculture industries, yet little was understood of their health status prior to project no 94/79.

There is no text available which describes, the anatomy and histopathologically of the pearl oyster, Pinctada maxima , or the histopathological changes that occur with disease. This lack of published data is compounded by the fact that there are currently only 4 pathologists in Australia with significant experience and knowledge to interpret histology sections from pearl oysters.

The publication of the histopathology photographs collected during project no 94/79 plus other reference material collected by previous researchers will help to overcome this problem.

The ability to be able to recognise what is normal or abnormal is critical in the interpretation of histology sections and hence will affect the quality of diagnostic services that can be provided to the pearling industry.

The publication of this material will also act as a reference book for a range of other investigations into pearl oysters, such as, nutritional, husbandry and biology studies. It will ensure that the material gathered during project no 94/79 will be preserved for the future benefit of the pearling industry.