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GC Juvenile

The Semporna Islands Project (SIP) hatchery team recently succeeded in creating a new cement base for giant clam juveniles. We created a few batches which will assist in the spawning of these giant clams

Importance of the Cement Base:

  • Providing a Stable Substrate:
    • Juvenile giant clams require a stable and secure surface to attach to as they grow.
    • A cement base provides this stable substrate, preventing them from being swept away by currents or buried in sediment.
  • Enhancing Juvenile Survival:
    • By providing a controlled and protected environment, the cement base increases the survival rate of juvenile clams.
    • This is essential for successful repopulation efforts.
  • Facilitating Monitoring and Management:
    • The cement base allows researchers and conservationists to easily monitor the growth and health of the juvenile clams.
    • This facilitates effective management of the hatchery and repopulation programs.
  • Supporting Reef Restoration:
    • Giant clams are an important part of coral reef ecosystems, contributing to reef health and biodiversity.
    • By increasing giant clam populations, the SIP hatchery team is supporting the overall restoration of these vital habitats.
  • Supporting alternative livelihoods:
    • As shown in the search results, giant clam aquaculture can be a viable alternative livelihood for the local communities. So by increasing the success of juvenile giant clam growth, this action helps to support those communities.

In essence, the creation of a new cement base is a practical and essential step in ensuring the successful growth and survival of giant clam juveniles, ultimately contributing to the long-term health and resilience of the Semporna Islands’ marine ecosystems.