SCRC: Piloting Commercial Scale Supply of Mass Selected Sydney Rock Oysters
The recent Morten Rye Review of Australian Breeding Programs and their Commercialisation recognised NSW’ SRO breeding achievements as an ‘an excellent platform for full implementation of a highly effective family based, multi-trait selection program for SRO’ but recommended the following for SOCo & SRO:
• Development of a reliable hatchery technique for consistent high volume production of SRO spat, and a reliable source of supply which preferably should be a commercial hatchery: Work currently undertaken independently of SOCo
• Facilitate effective family based multi-trait selection (incorporating quantitative genetic advice)
o Prepare an operational breeding plan based on sound quantitative genetics and selection theory
o Establish effective data recording (nucleus and performance testing) and database management systems
• Establish a management team with the core responsibility to coordinate breeding program activities in close collaboration with PSFI and with technical input from a competent provider of quantitative genetic services (e.g. CSIRO).
NSW DPI is also looking to industry to progressively adopt management and self fund the current MSBP breeding program. Significant progress toward this goal has been achieved for the MSBP and the appointment of a manager and the divestment of routine operations of the program would signal industry’s acceptance of and commitment to the program and provide a strong incentive for DPI to continue to invest in pair mated program development.
For SOCo to achieve the aim set out in the review it must invest in program mechanics alongside private commercial investment in hatchery technique for SRO to address production barriers.
Final report
This project was developed to progress the long term commitment of both industry and research providers to providing lines of Sydney Rock Oyster selected for growth rate, shell shape and disease resistance, to farmers of this species. It progresses commercialisation outcomes and provides a platform for the delivery of outcomes of past and current CRC research projects.
This project aimed to:
- Develop protocols for broodstock management and perpetuation
- Develop improved communication with end users with regard to availability, properties and management of available selected stocks.
- Coordinate hatchery requirements with broodstock availability to improve supply.
- Develop human resources with shellfish specific experience
- Introduce selected broodstock into more multiplier hatcheries.
- Develop a platform to support delivery of outcomes of current research projects including the developing family breeding program.
