Biophysical characteristics of oyster larval devel opment in hatcheries

Purpose and goal

Eutrophication is a problem in Swedish coastal waters, and aquaculture production of the native oyster is not only good for the environment but also potentially a very profitable business that can help meet Swedish demand for sustainably produced local seafood. Sweden currently imports 80% of the oysters it consumes, even though its oysters are prized for their excellent quality and could easily be produced in aquaculture for local consumption and export. The goal of this project was to increase hatchery knowledge towards producing juvenile oysters for growout on Sweden´s West Coast.

Expected results and effects

Two papers have been published as a result of this project: one on commercial reproduction (`conditioning´) in Swedish flat oysters, and a similar paper in New Zealand flat oysters. Two more papers are in preparation. Longterm collaborations have been established with key researchers in the field. The project has also led to several visits by foreign experts to Sweden, including three people from the collaborating institute in New Zealand. Swedish industry partners have clearly benefited from of these visits and have led to joint research outputs with New Zealand based colleagues.

Planned approach and implementation

The goal was to develop an exchange of expertise with researchers in New Zealand (where there is a well-established shellfish industry) in order to resolve specific bottlenecks in flat oyster hatchery production. The outcome in this regard was successful, given that appropriate research collaborations were established and results produced that are relevant to industrial partners. Training goals for the project were also met through research undertaken in New Zealand, and additional funding was secured for reciprocal visits by New Zealand collaborators to Sweden.