During the recent IFA conference in Limerick a presentation was made discussing the numerous oyster husbandry systems which have been developed internationally to suit the varying environmental conditions in which oysters are grown. Each system seeks to address the same major challenges facing every oyster farmer: how to maximise quality and survival, minimise production costs and improve the sustainability of oyster businesses.
In the report technical information is provided on some new-to-market and already established systems. Each system is described using the following criteria:
- Structural specifications
- Any variations available on the basic system and structural specifications of same
- Indicative material costs (subject to market fluctuation)
- Reported lifespan of main system components
- Site specifications
- Recommended method of deployment: mooring requirement/post driving/orientation on the tide
- Recommended stocking densities
- Potential yield per licensed hectare
- Environmental considerations
The five systems reviewed are:
- Hanging Floating Bag System
- Adjustable Longline System
- Roll’Bag
- OstréA Spin
- FlipFarm
Of course every oyster farm site differs in terms of orientation, size, depth, bottom type, nutrient availability and degree of exposure. Small scale trials are recommended to determine the suitability of any equipment to your particular operation before larger investments are made.
The full report and links to technical sheets and discussions for each type of growing technique reviewed can be found on the BIM website here BIM – Husbandry Innovation for the Shellfish Sector.