Biology and culture of pearl oysters (bivalvia : Pteriidae)

This study reviews information on the biology and culture of four pearl oyster species: Pinctada fucata, P. maxima, P. margaritifera, and Pteria penguin. Individual sections cover: (1) taxonomy and distribution; (2) ecology and biology, including anatomy, environmental factors, food and feeding, reproduction, growth, and mortality; (3) culture, including hatchery culture, breeding, spat collection, nursery rearing, ongrowing systems, and pearl culture; and (4) the marketing and economics of cultured pearls, pearl shell, and pearl oyster meat. The report concludes that pearl oyster cultivation and pearl culture are developing rapidly throughout the Pacific Islands, but there is potential for geographic expansion of pearl culture and for improved management and marketing within the industry. Priority research needs are to: (1) redefine hatchery techniques for P. maxima and P. margaritifera; (2) perform assessment surveys in areas where stocks are marginal or heavily exploited; (3) develop spat collection techniques for P. maxima; and (4) conduct disease control studies. Efforts in the Pacific Islands should focus on: refining farming and extension systems; increasing the availability of seeding techniques through collaborative training programs; increasing communication between researchers and pearl farmers; and defining marketing strategies.