Science and community partnership delivers pearl harvest success in Viani

The Viani community pearl farm in Cakaudrove has harvested 236 half-mabé pearls while seeding a further 157 oysters for the 2027 production cycle under a joint research and community development initiative.

The Ministry of Fisheries' Northern Research Team, in collaboration with Dr Pranesh Kishore of the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), completed the week-long harvesting and oyster implantation programme.

The initiative combined production and research, delivering immediate economic returns while strengthening future pearl production for the coastal community.

Mr Kishore said the project highlighted the benefits of combining scientific research with community participation.

"The collaboration demonstrates the value of combining science with local participation," he said.

The research team, assisted by Viani youth, harvested 236 half-mabé pearls from oysters seeded during the previous production cycle.

The team also implanted 157 new oysters, which are expected to be harvested in mid-2027.

A further 20 oysters were retained for research purposes and will remain in the water until August 2026 for ongoing monitoring by the Ministry of Fisheries.

Mabé pearls, also known as half-pearls, develop on the inner shell of oysters, making them well suited to community-based aquaculture.

Mr Kishore said the results demonstrated strong potential for sustainable coastal livelihoods.

Following the harvest, the pearls were cleaned and packed and are awaiting quality grading before being supplied to local buyers and jewellery artisans.

The Ministry of Fisheries said the initiative continues to strengthen community-led aquaculture while creating income opportunities for coastal villages and advancing applied pearl farming research.