1. To develop and contrast the performance of various oyster lines derived from local and diseaseresistant stocks in various locations supporting aquaculture growth in the state; 2. To evaluate the potential benefits of growing locally-adapted triploid oysters; 3. To determine if interactions between genotype, environment and disease exist; 4. To maintain and provide the industry with the best performing oyster lines for aquaculture operations in various water bodies.

1. Breed and test the growth, survivorship, immune performances and safety of new diploid and triploid lines derived from tetraploid and diploid oysters from different genetic backgrounds 2. Perform integrative data analysis to identify best performing oyster stocks for the various areas supporting aquaculture growth in the state 3. Inform stakeholders about the suitability of the new lease areas for growing diploid and/or triploid oysters and maintain broodstock for diffusion to the industry

Many factors affect aquaculture success in general and shellfish aquaculture remains a risky business. This is often due to the artisanal nature of small aquaculture operations where “try-and-fail” approaches are predominant. Given the extensive nature of shellfish aquaculture, environmental factors represent an important driver regulating growth and survivorship of aquacultured stocks. Just as important, biological factors, such as stocks’ genetic background and disease pressure, represent determinant elements for shellfish aquaculture success (or failure). This is particularly true for the eastern oyster where disease pressure represents a main factor affecting aquaculture success. Furthermore, the eastern oyster is relatively slow growing and usually takes two to three years to reach market size in our region. This long duration not only reduces productivity and increases production cost, but also prolongs exposure to diseases and resulting mortalities. The main objective of this project is to compare the performance of different oyster lines derived from different genetic backgrounds. Further, we will contrast the performance of locally-derived triploid oysters with that of their diploid counterparts. Triploid oysters grow fast and maintain high meat quality throughout the year, significantly enhancing yield (up to 190% as compared to diploid oysters) from a given farm. Superior oyster lines identified during the study will be maintained and broadly diffused to the aquaculture industry in the state and beyond. Significant investment has been recently made in shellfish hatchery infrastructure in NY. This project will generate the biological resources needed to make this infrastructure investment a success. The development of oyster aquaculture can provide ecologically sustainable economic growth in coastal communities and decrease pressure on over-exploited capture fisheries. New York consumers will benefit from increased availability of high quality and competitively priced products.