The Natural History Research Center and Museum recently hosted a panel discussion on “Oyster Farming and Pearl Cultivation” on Sunday, April 20, 2025. The Workshops and Seminars Committee organized this event, which is part of the Center’s ongoing scientific activities and held under the support and guidance of its Director, Assistant Professor Dr. Hana Hani Al-Saffar.
Assistant lecturer Ali Kamel Wannas moderated the session, during which Assistant lecturer Hiba Muhammad Jihad highlighted the unique nature of pearls as jewels formed by living organisms—oysters in both saltwater and freshwater environments. She explained how pearl farming offers a sustainable alternative for pearl production, minimizing environmental impact. The discussion also covered the biology of oysters as filter-feeding mollusks living within hard shells, noting that pearl formation in some species is a defense mechanism.
The panel discussion aimed to:
Introduce the processes and challenges of both oyster and pearl farming.
Raise awareness about the economic significance of pearl cultivation.
Present the various types of cultured pearls.
The session concluded with the following recommendations:
Bolster scientific research focused on enhancing oyster strains and improving pearl yield and quality.
Promote partnerships among universities, research institutions, and local farms to stimulate innovation.
Mitigate the overharvesting of oysters to protect ecosystems from adverse effects.
Underscore the significance of sustainable oyster farming practices that maintain biodiversity.
Facilitate the sharing of knowledge and expertise in the field.
The Center extends its best wishes to its faculty members for their continued success in serving the community, science, and knowledge.
