September 3, 2025 — Alaska may be known for its wild salmon, but another coastal delicacy is making waves: Pacific oysters. These shellfish make up the bulk of Alaska’s mariculture production. New research is shining a light on what makes them unique—and how they could play a growing role in the region’s seafood industry.
A team of NOAA Fisheries scientists and partners conducted a 3-year study at an oyster farm near Juneau, Alaska. They explored how the cold, nutrient-rich waters of Southeast Alaska influence oyster growth and quality. The findings suggest that Alaska’s subarctic environment offers both surprising benefits and potential challenges for oyster farmers.