Tasmania is home to several aquaculture operations that are focused on the small-scale farming of other species, including seahorses and mussels.
Other Species in Tasmania
The Tasmanian aquaculture sector is varied in both the range of species farmed and the scale of operations. The Aquaculture Branch works with farming operators within the state to support and enable the valued diversity of aquaculture species farmed in Tasmania.
Key Species
Other species currently being farmed in Tasmania include:
Seahorses
Tasmanian seahorse farming is primarily based around the Hippocampus abdominalis (Pot-bellied seahorse), but also includes:
- Hippocampus reidi (Slender seahorse)
- Hippocampus kuda (Common/Yellow/Spotted seahorse)
- Hippocampus whitei (White’s seahorse)
- Hippocampus barbourin (Barbour’s seahorse).
Tasmanian seahorse farming is undertaken by Seahorse Australia, which is one of the first commercial seahorse farms in the world and was founded in Tasmania in 1998. The facility has supported the development of best practices for seahorse farming, generating a high level of breeding success of 90 per cent, and a reliable supply of seahorses for the aquarium market.
Through its work, Seahorse Australia has helped to educate the public about the plight of wild seahorses, while easing the pressure on wild populations on other regions of the world.
Mussels
Tasmanian mussel farming is based around the Mytilus galloprovincialis (Tasmanian blue mussel).
The farming of Tasmanian mussels generally begins in a land-based hatchery with billions of mussel larvae that are nurtured under strict quality and environmental conditions. Once reared, the mussels are transported to the open ocean where they mature on suspended ropes below the surface of the water.
Tasmanian mussels are sold and consumed across Australia and internationally, being celebrated for their high nutritional benefit and low environmental impact.
Other Species FAQs
How large is the seahorse industry in Tasmania?
There is currently one seahorse farming operator in Tasmania, which is Seahorse Australia. The farm is situated on the Tamar Valley in northern Tasmania. Seahorse Australia is known as one of the most experienced bulk breeders and exporters of seahorses in the world.
How large is the mussel industry in Tasmania?
There are a handful of small commercial mussel farms in Tasmania, largely operating around the east and south-east coasts. Australian mussel production is relatively small compared to other species farmed.
Where can I learn more about other species farmed in Tasmania?
Some useful resources relating to other species farmed in Tasmania include: