A research project is underway to investigate ways to manage invasive species on oyster aquaculture farms. Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Allan Campbell has announced that the department’s Aquaculture and Fisheries Research initiative is contributing $40,000 to the project which is being undertaken by the PEI Aquaculture Alliance’s Island Oyster Growers Group.
“Members of the oyster industry, both from the public fishery and the aquaculture sector, are becoming increasingly concerned about the effect invasive species may have on oyster production,” said Mr. Campbell. “This project will focus on the development of control options for invasive species that may impact oyster aquaculture in the future. I applaud the industry for taking this proactive approach.”
The Minister said the project will examine the introduction of various tunicate species on oyster gear. The project will also examine the oyster drill which has become more prevalent in Island waters over the last few years. Fishers and growers have noted an increase in oyster mortality due to the oyster drill in recent years and want to learn more about what controls might be put in place.
The PEI Aquaculture Alliance has hired a biologist to lead the project, and the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture will contribute technical support. The project, which began in May, will be completed in December. The results of the research will be made available to the industry.
The Aquaculture and Fisheries Research Initiative (AFRI) supports applied developmental research to benefit the province’s fisheries and aquaculture industry, along with the processing sector. Applications from individuals and organizations can be submitted to Kelly Cantelo at the department. The current research project will build on a number of other AFRI funded projects on invasive species that have been undertaken in partnership with the Aquaculture Alliance, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the Atlantic Veterinary College.
“Prince Edward Island oysters are prized all over the world and we must invest in research and development to ensure that our industry continues to grow and develop well into the future,” said Mr. Campbell.