Researchers will study the positive effects of investing in hatcheries to develop high-quality seed.
The University of Southampton
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has awarded £3 million to a project led by the University of Southampton, which aims to mitigate climate change consequences and improve the sustainability of mollusc farming in Asia.
The study aims to understand the adaptability of molluscs to the changing environment, to strengthen food security and protect livelihoods in the region against diseases and commercial pressures.
"The reliance on so few species also makes mollusc production vulnerable to climate shocks, outbreaks of disease, and other crop failures, which will be made more likely as temperatures increase," explained Professor Chris Hauton, who is leading the project.
The researchers will study the mollusc production systems used in Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia by mapping the involved stakeholders, relationships, influential factors, challenges, and trends.
Another goal is to analyze all species alternatives to create a diverse culture stock that offers resilience against these challenges. Additionally, the researchers will study the positive effects of investing in hatcheries to develop high-quality seed.
"Mollusc farming has a low environmental footprint, and by filtering seawater as they feed, molluscs enhance water quality in and around the farms. Taking steps to ensure production continues in a changing climate will help to make sure these highly nutritious foods will be available to consumers in the regions where they are farmed, and around the world," indicated Dr. Andrew Desbois, from the Institute of Aquaculture at the University of Stirling.
Finally, this initiative also takes into account the protection of farmers, as they could be affected by the shift from local consumption to more lucrative export markets, potentially threatening local food security in the region.
Moreover, Hauton added: "This information will not only help regional planners to think strategically about how best they can support mollusc farming into the future but also empower farmers to improve farming practices to produce high-quality mollusc products in a sustainable and resilient way."
The University of Southampton is part of the WAVES consortium – Working towards Adaptive and Versatile Environmental Sustainability – which also includes the Royal Veterinary College, the University of Stirling, Can Tho University, the Marine and Fisheries Polytechnic of Jembrana, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Northumbria University, and Newcastle University. The consortium will also partner with WorldFish (Malaysia) and the Research Institute for Aquaculture No. 1 (Vietnam).
