Research Projects

Husbandry models and technology systems

• Survey and description of Farming/Breeding operations
• Identify farm production models
• Identify research needs through the survey study
• Identify computerized methods for marking and ID of crocodiles
• Develop an integrated national crocodile register

Norms and standards

• Review regulatory environment and legislation
• Setting of benchmark and minimum standards
• Developing international-best-practice farming charter
• Implementing an accreditation system
• Establish an Association to represent the industry across the value chain

Health and welfare

• Diseases affecting crocodile health
• Skin quality and pathology
• Crocodile behaviour and welfare
• Humane handling and stunning
• Humane slaughtering of crocodiles

Production

• Pen design – single pens
• Alternative protein/sources for crocodile feed
• Develop of a GIT Health Index
• Fertility of breeders
• Investigate crocodile meat regulations and alternative meat products

Environmental management

• Investigate different ways of effluent treatment and energy consumption
• Alternative package plant for water purification, reuse and utilisation

Evolution and biology

• Anatomical and histological studies
• Molecular genetic studies
• Reproductive studies
• Pharmacological and Toxicological studies

Scientific and diagnostic support

• Establish an information portal and library
• Establish an efficient and dedicated diagnostic facilities and services
• Provision of consultative services

Education and skills training

• Training to support new technologies and processes
• Skills training of animal handlers e.g. person stunning crocodiles
• MSc and PhD training

Marketing and Trade

• Finished product consumer markets analysis
  • SA and International consumer markets’ luxury exotic leather value perceptions
  • The relevance of exotic leather products’ supply chain information to SA and International consumers
  • Environmental behaviour as a result of wide ranging attacks on the leather industry
  • The role of knowledge, country-of-origin and traceability information in exotic leather consumers’ purchasing behaviour
  • The relevance of online information to international exotic leather consumers’ purchase decisions
• International luxury consumer trends and insights
• Baseline research of international export potential for crocodile and ostrich leather products