Production of Oyster Spat in a Natural Environment Phase I – Testing of Collector Cups

Summary:
Tests of oyster spat collection were conducted at Bouctouche and Caraquet to assess the performance of a new type of collector cup. The idea was to potentially adapt the technique to current cultivation activities. Specifically, the project sought to adapt the French technique of capturing and producing oyster spat to the peculiarities of shellfish culture in eastern Canada in order to mechanize the operation and reduce production costs. The project also sought an alternative to Chinese hats collectors that present constraints for setting up a sorting strategy to select the best performing individuals in terms of growth. The results were convincing in terms of capture rates and mechanization of operations, but highlighted deficiencies in terms of intermediate growth both for the collector cups and Chinese hats.

Project Lead: 638131 NB Inc.

Total project cost: $80,485
           
DFO-AIMAP Contribution: $58,000

Other Financial Support:

• Proponent: 638131 NB Inc.

For more information about this project, please contact the regional coordinator.

Gulf Region: Stephen.Lanteigne@dfo-mpo.gc.ca