Warm Waters Boost Alaminos Oyster Growth Amid Rising Heat

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In Alaminos City, Pangasinan, oyster farmers embrace the rising temperatures which boost oyster growth, thanks to warmer waters speeding up the proliferation of plankton—their primary food source.

 

Milberth Ferrer, a leading aquaculturist, and Westly Rosario, ex-BFAR research chief, affirm that oysters are thriving as opposed to farmed fish, which suffer amid harsh conditions. Oysters instinctively close their shells to safeguard themselves from pollutants and adverse environmental conditions, ensuring a stable and prosperous yield.

 

Aligned with this prosperity is the Talaba Festival, peaking in March, spotlighting the city's vibrant oyster industry. The annual event coincides with the larger Hundred Islands Festival, drawing both locals and visitors to celebrate the city's renowned oysters. This year, festivities saw the city's main district filled with grilling stations, offering freshly harvested oysters to participants, exemplifying community engagement and support.

 

 

 

Mayor Arth Bryan Celeste revealed that around 80 families are embedded in oyster farming across approximately 35 hectares. The thriving industry not only supplies local markets but also far-reaching areas, with rapid sellouts highlighting the high demand.

 

Despite its prosperity, the oyster industry faces the threat of invasive black mussels, which compete for space and resources, particularly during rainy seasons. Ferrer cautions that controlling this menace requires consistent efforts, as the mussels could quickly retake territory if left unchecked.

 

The city's government, alongside regional agencies, continuously supports oyster farmers through resources, training, and potential value-adding projects like oyster-flavoured crackers and other goods. As Alaminos City basks in the success of its oysters, it remains vigilant against the challenges lurking in its waters, reported Inquirer.

 

-- 2025-03-18