Overview
This project is supporting expansion of community-based pearl farming in Tonga and demonstrating the feasibility of similar development in Vietnam.
Production of half-pearls, or ‘mabé’, is unique to Tonga. Produced by the winged pearl oyster (Pteria penguin), half-pearls are generally less valuable than round pearls, but individual oysters can produce multiple half-pearls (unlike round pearls). Pearl production can be accomplished by community members over a 10-month culture period, compared to about two years for round pearls.
Cultured half-pearls now generate significant income in coastal communities in Tonga including down-stream livelihood activities through handicraft production, mainly by women.
Technical support is now required to maintain current industry momentum and assist development of new community-based pearl farms. Pteria penguin oysters are also found in Vietnam but are not utilised for mabé or handicraft production.
This project will improve husbandry methods to support increased oyster production for sustainable industry expansion; assess the potential of half-pearl farming in Vietnam; and evaluate socioeconomic aspects of half-pearl culture in Tonga and Vietnam.