Comparative Description and Analysis of Oyster Aquaculture in Selected Atlantic Regions: Production, Market Dynamics, and Consumption Patterns

Abstract

In the face of an increasing world population and a subsequent need for an increase in sustainable and healthy food production, low trophic species, such as oysters, emerge as a promising alternative. However, regional variations in oyster production techniques, market dynamics, and consumption patterns create challenges for both the global and local industry’s growth. In this study, a descriptive qualitative analysis of oyster markets across seven Atlantic regions was carried out. The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) was found to be farmed in most Atlantic regions except the US but is classified as invasive in Sweden and potentially invasive in South Africa. Other farmed and/or harvested species include native species (C. gasar and C. rhizophorae) in Brazil, the American cupped oyster (C. virginica) in the US, and the European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis) in France, Sweden, and the US. In Irish farms, Pacific oysters are primarily for export to European markets. The marine aquaculture sectors of Sweden, South Africa, and Namibia, as well as Brazil’s farming for C. gasar, were found to be underdeveloped. This study also observed a variation in licensing, property rights, and regulatory frameworks. Financial challenges for small businesses, ecological implications of seed production techniques, biosecurity risks, and public health considerations are emphasized as critical areas for attention. This study offers valuable insights into the selected markets and can serve as a useful resource for policymakers, aquaculture practitioners, and stakeholders in optimizing global shellfish industry strategies.

Digital Traceability in Agri-Food Supply Chains: A Comparative Analysis of OECD Member Countries

“…Apart from the EU guidelines, Sweden has introduced a national food strategy that aims to promote food safety, transparency, and traceability. Its vision for 2030 revolves around sustainable and innovative food chain policies that enable growth [73]. In February 2016, the government directly mandated the Swedish National Food Agency to promote digital innovation by making information in the food supply chain easily accessible [74].…”

Intensification of Amazon River Prawn Hatchery

“…An essential constraint to producing native LTS organisms is the lack of seed availability [13]. Therefore, developing hatchery technology to provide the postlarvae of M. amazonicum for sustainable grow-out farms is relevant.…”