The Japanese Oyster Crassostrea gigas originates from the seas and estuaries of Japan and Korea: The species is considered as the most relevant bivalve mollusk in commercial aquaculture. In Mexico, the species was first introduced in Baja California in 1973.
Our commercial operation is located in a 53 ha coastal property with a 4 ha production concession at Estero El Chisguete, in Comondu, Baja California Sur, approximately 270 kms from La Paz, where conditions are ideal for the development of the species. We stock high quality seed from hatcheries in La Paz every 4 months for a carrying capacity of 1 million oysters per hectare. Commercial size (8-10 cm) is obtained using long-lines after 8-10 months at a weight of 80-120 grams. Annual production is 480,000 pieces with monthly sales of 40,000 units sold mainly in La Paz and Los Cabos for local consumption and tourism demand.
Our midterm objective is to increase production to 1.5 million oysters/year for the export market. We are looking for $5 million pesos (US$250,000) to improve infrastructure and for additional culture equipment and materials.