The Pismo clam (Tivela stultorum) is a large bivalve with a native range from central California through Baja, Mexico. At its peak in the early 20th century, annual commercial landings for the Pismo clam were recorded near 700,000 lbs. Following closure of the commercial fishery in 1947, a large recreational fishery persisted until many populations drastically declined in the early 1980s. Recent studies show that populations remain at historically low densities in much of southern California. Clams, in general, represent one of the highest in demand bivalves in terms of market value and consumer preference ($122 million/year). Pismo clams represent a potential native California aquaculture species that can help meet some of the growing demand for seafood and boost the California aquaculture industry. In 2022, the presenting team successfully spawned and reared the Pismo clam through juvenile stages (Figure 1) at Holdfast Aquaculture, a crucial step towards developing a commercial aquaculture framework for this species.
Here the authors will report on Pismo clam pilot study datasets and new preliminary results from a Sea Grant-funded project that has four major goals: 1) determine ideal micro-algal feed concentrations and compositions for larvae; 2) demonstrate hatchery production on a commercial-scale; 3) generate protocols for ex situ broodstock conditioning; 4) develop an out-planting strategic plan with stakeholders. The project aims to produce a hatchery manual for commercial-scale production of the Pismo clam. Additional extension of the project will engage regulatory agencies and industry constituents regarding the appropriate path for the eventual introduction of this California native species into commercial production and food systems, while also exploring synergies with conservation efforts.