$2.3M for lobster research in Nova Scotia and PEI

Shelburne, NS – The Canadian lobster industry is receiving funding of more than $2.3 million for lobster research in the provinces of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island under the federal government’s Atlantic Innovation Fund (AIF).

The Atlantic Lobster Moult and Quality Project, being led by the Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island, will explore ways to improve the quality of lobsters landed, primarily in south western Nova Scotia and in the Northumberland Strait.

The total project cost is estimated at $4.4 million with industry, community and provincial government partners providing support.

“The AVC Lobster Science Centre is a research facility dedicated to conducting lobster health research,” says Jerry Amirault, chief operating officer, AVC Lobster Science Centre. “We are excited by the possibilities that AIF funding for this project brings in terms of advancing scientific knowledge related to lobster health and life cycles, and the role this knowledge can play in promoting the health and sustainability of the lobster industry in Atlantic Canada.”

The project is divided into five major activities including: field monitoring to collect biological data; developing a method to assess reproductive status of female lobster; gene discovery to identify molecular markers associated with moult and reproductive cycles; development of a biochemistry profile; and the establishment of a service unit within the AVC Lobster Science Centre to help increase post-harvest activity.