Aquaculture: 1997 Publications

Author: Shatkin, G., Shumway, S.E., and Hawes, R.
Title: Considerations regarding the possible introduction of the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) to the Gulf of Maine: A review of global experience.
Publication: Journal of Shellfish Research 16(2):463-477, 1997.
© National Shellfish Assoication

Notes : This report was prepared in response to an interest among representatives of the Maine oyster culture industry in potentially introducing the nonendemic species Crassostrea gigas into the Gulf of Maine for culture purposes. The manuscript was originally written for the members of the shellfisheries subcommittee of the Maine Aquaculture Association. Topics reviewed include: the history of oyster culture in Maine, the rationale behind the interest in introduction of the Pacific oyster, a history of C. gigas introduction around the world, the legal aspects of nonendemic introduction, diseases associated with the Pacific oyster, methods of inhibiting reproduction of the nonendemic species, the ecological implications of introducing C. gigas, and production of the Pacific oyster in Maine. The article is a compilation of both published material and information contributed through personal communications with regional specialists. The authors do not assert conclusions but offer the material assembled below as a source of information to those involved in the decision-making processes concerning proposed introductions in Maine and other geographic regions.