An Island-based company on Prince Edward Island is in the process of seeking approval to bring in disease-resistant oyster seed and broodstock from the United States. This move comes as the Island’s oyster industry faces challenges due to the presence of MSX and dermo diseases in its waters. While these diseases do not pose a threat to humans, they can be fatal to oysters.
Atlantic Aqua Farms has formally requested permission from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to begin importing the disease-resistant oyster seed and broodstock at the earliest opportunity to address the current challenges faced by the industry.
Meredith White, the director of hatcheries at Atlantic Aqua Farms, expressed concern about the urgency of the approval process, stating, “We would have preferred to receive approval for this year as we are deeply worried about the future of our farm.” White highlighted the company’s proactive approach, acknowledging the presence of MSX in their oysters and anticipating potential future mortalities.
Despite concerns about the survivability of the U.S. oysters in P.E.I.’s winter conditions, White assured that the oysters are cultivated in Maine by the company and have undergone rigorous testing for cold weather resilience. The imported oysters will be placed in a quarantined facility to mitigate any risks associated with introducing new diseases.
‘Why take a chance?’
Bob MacLeod, the president of the P.E.I. Shellfish Association representing wild oyster fishers, voiced apprehensions about the potential introduction of new diseases through the imported oyster stock. He questioned the necessity of importing oysters given the uncertainties surrounding the origin of the existing diseases in Island waters.
MacLeod also raised concerns about the impact on wild oyster fishers, emphasizing the importance of preserving the native Malpeque oysters that the region is renowned for.
‘A step in the right direction’
On the other hand, Darcy Foley, the president of the Island Oyster Growers Group, viewed the import of oyster seed and broodstock from the U.S. as a positive development for the industry’s sustainability. Foley emphasized the importance of taking proactive measures to prevent a decline in oyster production.
The Island Oyster Growers Group recently endorsed the proposal, with Foley highlighting the industry’s unanimous support for Atlantic Aqua Farms’ initiative and the measures in place to address the risk of new diseases.
Foley stressed the urgency of obtaining approval from the CFIA to address the escalating mortality rates among growers and secure
