The technical feasibility of commercial hatchery and remote setting operations in Louisiana

A pilot oyster (Crassostrea virginica) hatchery was constructed and has been operated since 1990 in Grand Isle, La., to test high-volume production of competent, eyed pediveligers for commercial remote setting operations. An industry-university collaboration has facilitated the use of university-based expertise and has provided an operating facility for the Sea Grant program to carry out its research, development and technology transfer mission. The company's objective is to produce high-quality oyster larvae for sale to local oyster farming companies. Approximately 186 million eyed larvae were produced during 1990 and approximately 240 million eyed larvae were produced during 1991. Commercial remote setting efforts produced seed oysters averaging 20 millimeters (mm) plus or minus 8 mm after a thirty-day nursery period, with an average of 15 seed oysters/shell. Efforts have emphasized research and development since 1992 because of an abundance of "wild" oyster seed.