The Ministry of Fisheries has launched a significant Tridacna gigas (giant clam) spawning program in collaboration with J Hunter Pearl Hatchery and local communities, aiming to boost aquaculture, improve livelihoods, and promote reef conservation through community-led reseeding efforts. Initiated last month, this initiative aligns with the Aquaculture Development Plan, which focuses on sustainable mariculture practices.
Spawning activities are underway at several key locations, including J. Hunter Pearl Hatchery in Savusavu, the Makogai Mariculture Research Centre, and Tavarua Island Hatchery. The Ministry of Fisheries anticipates that the production from these activities will contribute to achieving the ambitious targets outlined in the Aquaculture Development Plan.
Stronger collaboration between the private sector and communities is a cornerstone of this program, which aims to enhance mass production, uplift local economies, and further conservation objectives. Local community engagement is critical, with Tridacna gigas broodstock provided by Nanuca Village in Tikina Cakaudrove for use at the hatchery.
This initiative is set to strengthen partnerships among local communities, government entities, and the private sector, fostering beneficial conservation outcomes and the regeneration of fishing areas through reseeding efforts. The Ministry is dedicated to promoting community involvement and public-private partnerships (PPPs) as viable strategies for advancing sustainable development and conservation efforts.
Furthermore, the Ministry’s research division is expanding its focus to include a greater variety of species, which will support both community and private sector initiatives as part of the Mariculture Program across Fiji. This initiative underscores a commitment to sustainable marine resource management and empowers communities while enhancing environmental preservation and economic resilience.