Mariculture potential of giant clams and sea urchins in the Lingayen Gulf area

Abstract

Sea urchins and giant clams are among the most intensively exploited invertebrates in the Lingayen Gulf area. Sea urchins are collected for their gonads, and giant clams, for their meat and shell. The threat of local extinction of com- mercially important species and the urgent need for alternative sources of food and income in the gulf area provide im- petus for the enhancement of mariculture activities of these species/groups. This paper presents an overview of current giant clam and sea urchin mariculture technologies, their availability, potential applicability in the Lingayen Gulf area, and recommendations towards accelerated realization of this potential. Recommendations center around the need to (1) address the issue of territorial use rights; (2) enhance extension/education effort to increase awareness and strengthen local sociopolitical structures; and (3) refine available technology (using local species/strains) under local conditions toward improved production levels.