Abalone farming is a developing sector of the Tasmanian aquaculture industry, with several abalone farms operating across the state demonstrating promising growth.
Abalone Farming in Tasmania
Tasmania is a major producer of abalone. The majority comes from Tasmania’s wild abalone fishery, which accounts for approximately 25 per cent of annual global yield. Tasmania’s developing abalone aquaculture industry has the potential to increase this yield.
There is growing demand for farmed abalone, with a number of Tasmanian land-based operators located across the state. This sector shows promise for growth and investment into the future.
Key Species
Abalone species currently being farmed in Tasmania include:
In Tasmanian aquaculture, Abalone larvae are spawned in hatcheries and reared in purpose-built nurseries, where they feed on algae for approximately six months.
They are transferred to a grow-out system for the next two to three years, which involves a mix of nutritious feed and slow-flowing seawater to simulate the ideal conditions for abalone growth. Tanks are closely monitored ensuring ample space for the abalone to thrive.
Abalone are then carefully hand-harvested before being processed – which varies depending on whether the abalone are sold fresh or frozen – and sent to seafood suppliers, restaurants and consumers.
Abalone FAQs
What is the difference between abalone farming and the abalone fishery?
Tasmania’s abalone fishery is a wild fishery and is therefore separate from farmed abalone. The Tasmanian wild abalone fishery is the largest in the world, producing approximately 25 per cent of the annual global supply. Farmed abalone has much smaller production levels and is a developing industry. Learn more about Tasmania’s
wild abalone fishery.
Where does Tasmanian abalone get exported?
Approximately 95 per cent of Tasmanian abalone is exported from Australia to a range of destinations in Asia, including China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan and Japan. Live abalone is the primary export product, but abalone can also be sold live, canned, frozen, dried or vacuum-packed.
Where can I find more information about Tasmanian abalone farming?
Some useful resources relating to abalone farming in Tasmania include: