European flat oysters (Ostrea edulis)
Photo: Stephane Pouvreau / Ifremer / University of Exeter.
A new collaboration aims to combat a devastating parasite affecting European native flat oysters, supporting both aquaculture and restoration efforts. The Roslin Institute has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with industry partners The Oyster Restoration Company, Native Aqua, and Xelect to develop disease-resistant oyster strains tailored for farming environments and wild population restoration.
The initiative addresses the impact of Bonamia ostreae, a lethal parasite that has severely hindered the recovery of European native flat oysters. The species has faced significant challenges due to overharvesting, pollution, and disease, leaving fewer than 5% of the population compared to historic levels.
By identifying genetic traits linked to resistance to Bonamia, researchers hope to create oyster strains that can thrive in infected waters and contribute to sustainable aquaculture.
Through this partnership, scientists at the Roslin Institute will lead efforts to pinpoint genetic markers associated with disease resistance using a combination of field trials and laboratory testing.
The Roslin Institute will focus on identifying genetic traits linked to disease resistance and providing scientific expertise, while Xelect will apply advanced genetic screening to identify resistance markers. Meanwhile, the Oyster Restoration Company will lead the breeding and supply of oysters for restoration, and Native Aqua will work on support for early-stage sustainable oyster farming and offer practical insights into oyster growth and survival.
The project aims to cater to both the needs of restoration projects and the food industry, the project organizers say. While restoration efforts demand resilient, disease-resistant oysters to repopulate wild habitats, aquaculture requires fast-growing, uniform oysters for commercial production.
“This partnership brings together a unique blend of expertise to tackle one of the biggest challenges facing native oysters. By understanding the genetic traits that make oysters more resistant to Bonamia, we hope to develop robust oyster populations that can survive in both infected waters and commercial farms," said Dr. Tim Bean, Research Fellow at the Roslin Institute, in a press release.
“This initiative reflects a long-term commitment to oyster restoration and aquaculture, aiming to safeguard the future of this aquatic species,” he added.
The research is set to begin in January 2025, pending funding approval.
