In the face of climate change and environmental degradation, innovative solutions are emerging to secure food supplies and make use of land that has become unsuitable for traditional agriculture. A recent study published in the journal *Aquaculture Reports* (translated from Dutch as *Aquaculture Reports*) explores the potential of cockle farming as a sustainable and profitable alternative in salinized coastal lowlands. The research, led by E.M. Kingma of Wageningen Marine Research, offers a promising glimpse into the future of marine aquaculture.
The study, conducted in the reclaimed Polder Wassenaar on the island of Texel in the Dutch Wadden Sea, investigated the growth and survival rates of the common cockle (Cerastoderma edule) under different water-flushing regimes. Using semi-controlled raceways, the researchers monitored the cockles’ progress over the 2023 growing season. The findings reveal that cockles grew significantly from April to June, with an average shell length increase of 7.0 ± 1.0 mm (25.5 ± 2.8 %) by September.
“Higher flushing rates enhanced growth during the algal spring bloom,” Kingma explained, highlighting the importance of optimal water management in maximizing cockle growth. The study also found that condition indices peaked in May and declined post-spawning, indicating the need for careful timing and management of flushing rates to ensure the health and productivity of the cockles.
While survival rates averaged 21.3 ± 2.7 %, one raceway experienced mass mortality, which impacted overall profitability. However, other raceways achieved economic returns comparable to conventional Dutch agriculture. “Survival rates are the most critical factor for economic viability,” Kingma noted. Improvements in stock quality, seeding time, and stress reduction are essential for enhancing survival rates and making cockle farming a viable and profitable venture.
The research suggests that with further system optimization and higher stocking densities, high-density cockle farming could provide a profitable and climate-resilient alternative for salinized coastal regions where traditional agriculture is declining. This innovative approach not only addresses food security concerns but also offers a sustainable use of land that has become increasingly salinized due to climate change.
As the world grapples with the challenges of overfishing, climate change, and environmental degradation, the findings of this study offer a beacon of hope. By exploring alternative land uses and sustainable aquaculture practices, we can pave the way for a more resilient and secure food future. The research led by Kingma and published in *Aquaculture Reports* underscores the potential of cockle farming as a viable and profitable solution in the face of these pressing global challenges.