Useful tips for farming of sea urchins

Nofima Marin has prepared a report outlining advice and tips to new farmers of the Drøbak sea urchin, based on the initiative of the Sea Urchin Project in Rogaland.

If sea urchin farming is to have a chance of being successful, a prerequisite is that new farmers have sufficient knowledge about the creature's biology and way of life. In the report, "Sea urchin farming - Advice for farmers", scientists at Nofima have given a summary of the condition that are important in areas including temperature, feed and farming environment. The report also gives practical advice for handling sea urchins.

The small green Drøbak sea urchin is one of several species, but is the most abundant. It is also the species that has the highest commercial value.

Sea urchin roe is a coveted seafood product. Chile, USA and Japan are the world's largest producers of sea urchins. Owing to over fishing, global catches of sea urchins have dropped, which puts Norway in a favourable position as a possible producer.

"Even though these creatures are prickly chaps, gentle handling is one of the most important factors," says Head of Project, Senior Scientist Sten Siikavuopio.

A number of factors need to be in order. This report deals with some of the factors that influence growth and survival of sea urchins in aquaculture.

The report is in Norwegian language only.