Suminoe Oyster (Crassostrea ariakensis) Culture in Korea

The Suminoe oyster Crassostrea ariakensis is considered a potential aquaculture species in Korea, potentially supplementing or supplanting culture of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas, currently the focus of commercial production and research. Production of cultured Suminoe oysters in Korea is limited, in part because of limited information on its biology and ecology. Commercial production is presently restricted to two rivers (Seomjin and Kawha). Here we describe the current status of C. ariakensis in Korea, focusing on its ecology and factors affecting development of aquaculture for this species. Preliminary investigations suggest that the Suminoe oyster shows excellent potential for expanded cultivation. A comprehensive monitoring program is needed to detect natural and anthropogenic ecosystem changes affecting production of the Suminoe oyster.