Thai Research Breakthrough: New Hope for Blood Cockle Industry

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Juvenile blood cockles

SAMUT SONGKHRAM — The Agricultural Research Development Agency (ARDA) has unveiled groundbreaking research in blood cockle breeding at Woradet Farm in Samut Songkhram province, marking a significant advancement in sustainable Thai agriculture and food production.

On January 21, Woradet Farm in Klong Khone sub-district welcomed ARDA consultant Anan Suwanarat and blood cockle breeding expert Thanet Pumthong, along with other officials. The farm’s owner, Woradet Khieocharoen, and Rasri Rungmanee, a representative from the Samut Songkhram Agricultural Council, hosted the delegation for a comprehensive tour of their breeding facilities.

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ARDA consultant Anan Suwanarat

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The visit highlighted three key areas of operation: broodstock management, juvenile cultivation, and plankton production for feed development. This research initiative comes at a crucial time, as Thailand’s blood cockle production has seen a dramatic decline over the past two decades – from a peak of 82,000 tons annually to approximately 32,600 tons in 2022, according to Department of Fisheries statistics.

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“Food security is a top priority for the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, especially given global climate change challenges,” said the ARDA consultant. “This initiative not only addresses food safety and public health concerns but also aims to sustainably preserve our environment while improving grassroots farmers’ income.”

The research project, focusing on breeding and nurturing Tegillorca granosa (Linnaeus, 1758), employs advanced aquaculture technology to ensure sustainable marine resources.

The team has successfully developed artificial breeding techniques using local broodstock from Klong Khone. Their achievements include cultivating over 100,000 juvenile cockles exceeding 1 millimeter in size, which will continue to be nurtured.

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Juvenile blood cockles, measuring over 1 millimeter, ready for the next stage of cultivation at Woradet Farm.
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Woradet Farm in Samut Songkhram Province
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This innovative approach aims to reduce dependency on wild harvesting while increasing survival rates of juvenile cockles. The project also minimizes risks associated with non-native species and diseases, contributing to the natural restoration of blood cockle populations. The initiative represents a significant step toward enhancing Thailand’s competitiveness in the global seafood market while maintaining sustainable development goals.

The research collaboration between ARDA, Kasetsart University, and the Department of Fisheries demonstrates Thailand’s commitment to combining technological innovation with traditional farming practices to address both environmental concerns and food security challenges.

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