PERI-URBAN OYSTER FARMING IN THE UPPER GULF OF THAILAND

Abstract

Oyster farming is an important source of income in many coastal communities throughout Asia. Little is known, however, about the productivity of the farming systems used and the challenges faced by growers. This paper presents the results of a study undertaken in the small peri-urban coastal community of Ang Sila on Thailand's eastern seaboard. The community is located in one of Thailand's most important oyster production areas, and is dominated by small farms that use simple semi-traditional culture techniques. Farm attributes together with the personal characteristics and opinions of farmers were obtained from a survey of 30 oyster farm owners. A typical farm of 100,000 strings was found to produce a net profit of approximately 90,000 baht ($2250 USD). A high level of female participation in farm ownership was also identified that benefits women with relatively low levels of education and limited economic opportunities. Peri-urban coastal areas in Thailand cannot currently produce export quality shellfish owing to water quality concerns. Improved growing water management techniques and the introduction of seafood safety protocols could, however, improve the quality of oysters sold to domestic consumers and provide a basis for developing export opportunities in the future.