Pearling is managed as a ‘gauntlet' fishery, to allow the oysters to be caught at the optimum size, 120-160 mm. Oysters over 160 mm are not generally suitable for round pearl production and are not usually taken. These large oysters form the basis of the breeding stock and management of the WA fishery by the quota system has kept breeding stock at healthy levels. Output controls are used: licensees have strict quotas (the entire industry currently has an annual quota of 572 units, with the value of one unit normally 1,000 shells, though there may be annual variations), shells must be a minimum size of 120 mm, and collection zones are designated. In 1992, producers were first allocated options (20,000 shells per licensee) for the use of hatchery-bred oysters to seed for round pearls. The purpose of quotas is to ensure sustainability of wild stock and optimise value to the community by maintaining prices. The industry can also plan long-term operational and marketing strategies with an expectation of stability. |