Techniques of collection of oyster spat for farming

Abstract

Methods of spat collection commonly practised: Dependable and consistent supply of seed is an essential prerequisite for viable aquaculture industry. Oyster seed commonly called spat is procured from natural resources by placing suitable cultch materials in the water column at the most appropriate time and place. Cultches used vary from twigs of various trees to modem synthetic materials. In 1670, Goroemon Kobayashi of Hiroshima first used bamboo poles with twigs and nets for successful collection of oyster seed. Bamboo branches and branches of trees such as oak, pine and chestnut were also used. Shells of scallop and oysters are commonly being used in the form of ‘rens ', hung horizontally or vertically from the racks. Recently Netlon a hexagonal plastic netting with a mesh size of 5 cm. of size 5-10 x 15 cm. is also being used for spat collection (Fujiya 1970, Bardach et al. 1972).