December 26, 2007

Australian research may make rock lobster farming a reality

The rock lobster, a prized crustacean, could be mass produced within a decade, thanks to efforts by the Tasmanian Aquaculture and Fisheries Institute.

With improved diet and water treatment techniques, the Institute is now successfully breeding more than 100 juveniles a year.

The rock lobster, commonly weighing about 3 kg but could weigh up to 10 kg, is found in waters in Southern Australia and New Zealand. One half-pound tail could fetch US$15 to US$30.

The institute has devoted much of the past ten years working to breed rock lobsters in captivity. However, the work now remains to move the lobster to commercial production, which would entail commercial trails by interested companies.

(source: Science in Salamanca)