Pearl farming science and technology program of Castilla, Sorsogon, Philippines

The research capitalized on the presence of at least three species of pearl producing oysters, one of which is Pinctada maxima, popular for its potential to yield south sea pearls. There is the potential of exploring spat collection as possible support activity to the pearl farming program being developed in the area. The 18 species of spats fell under 2 phyla (Mollusca and Arthropoda), distributed to three classes, 10 orders, 10 families and 14 genera. The dominance of several economically important mollusks, specially the pearl producing oysters, namely, P.maxima, P. margaritifera and Pteria pengium and P. colymbus were indicators of the potential of exploring spat collection as input to nursery technology to support fresh supply of pearl oysters for commercial pearl farming. A promising development of locally-adaptable technology of pearl oyster relaxation was tested in the experimental implantation of round nucleus right in the gonad of recipient oyster. The relaxation protocol utilized locally available plants as relaxant. When compared to the local practice of wedging, PORIT was much simpler and effective. There was 100% survival rate with PORIT while 0% survival rate with the wedging method (experience by local farm practice in Cogon). Also, there were no rejections of the nuclei implanted in PORIT while the owner-technician of the local farm employing the wedging method reported recovery of pearl beads. Pearl farming, as an ecologically-friendly aquaculture practice would sit-well with the protection and management of coastal assets of Castilla. The location of the present experimental station, at the eastern periphery of the Malaumauan Island Fish Sanctuary and Marine Reserve (FISAMAR) could be a tool to further enhance the protection and management afforded to the reserve and sanctuary. This is an inviting opportunity for local managers to carry-out CRM while integrating eco-friendly aquaculture and FISAMAR management. The ecotourism potential of the pearl farming project in a scenic uninhabited Malaumauan Island, near the FISAMAR is obvious. Several times, the project and the pearl farm venture were featured in broadcast and print media.