The Ministry of Fisheries has successfully initiated a significant Tridacna gigas (giant clam) spawning program in partnership with J Hunter Pearl Hatchery and local communities. This program, launched last month, aims to enhance aquaculture, uplift livelihoods, and foster reef conservation through community-led reseeding efforts, all in line with the Aquaculture Development Plan focused on sustainable mariculture.
Spawning activities took place at J. Hunter Pearl Hatchery located in Savusavu, the Makogai Mariculture Research Centre, and Tavarua Island Hatchery. The Ministry indicated that the production from this initiative is expected to help meet the targets set forth in the Aquaculture Development Plan.
The Ministry of Fisheries emphasized the importance of strengthening the private sector and community approach, which is anticipated to enhance mass production efforts, improve livelihoods for local communities, and further conservation goals. Community engagement plays a critical role in this program, with Tridacna gigas broodstock supplied by Nanuca Village in Tikina Cakaudrove for the spawning activities at J. Hunter Pearl Hatchery.
This collaborative effort is expected to fortify partnerships between local communities, the government, and the private sector, ultimately contributing to beneficial conservation outcomes and the improvement of fishing grounds through reseeding initiatives. The Ministry continues to promote community engagement and public-private partnerships (PPPs) as effective strategies for fostering sustainable development and conservation.
Additionally, the ministry’s research division is expanding its scope to incorporate more species, which will aid community and private sector initiatives through the Mariculture Program implementation throughout Fiji. This presents a positive step towards sustainable marine resource management and community empowerment, showcasing a commitment to enhancing both environmental preservation and economic development.