Research & Development
  • Pearl oyster 

    Trials of pearl culture with the winged oyster (Pteria penguin) are taking place in the Vavau group. Half pearls have been successfully produced.

    Government research has assisted in techniques for spat collection.

    There is interest in other pearl oyster species including the black lip (Pinctada margaritifera) and silver lip pearl oyster (Pinctada maxima).

    The private sector has formed an association of pearl farmers.