ARTIFICIAL OYSTER CULTURE. IIOI 



should be withdrawn. Yet, " diminished as the supply of 

 oysters is in Ireland, and suffering as this branch of 

 fisheries is from exhaustion, there can be no doubt that the 

 banks, both as regards stock and other conditions, are for 

 the most part in a more satisfactory condition than those 

 of the other portions of the kingdom, or of France." And 

 this comparatively favourable state is unquestionably due 

 to the salutary regulations framed and enforced by the 

 Board of Works, whilst the fisheries were under that 

 department, the observance of close time, and the efficient 

 service rendered by the coast guard in carrying out these 

 regulations. 



From what has been written, it is not at all intended to 

 prejudice the cultivation of oysters, when properly con- 

 . ducted. On the contrary, the cultivation of crassals (mud- 

 lands) and ebb-dry foreshores is available for either asso- 

 ciated bodies of fishermen or individuals. Indeed, it is 

 especially adapted to the wants of a poor population, on a 

 rocky coast, partly fishermen and partly farmers, such as 

 we find in many parts of Ireland, and where the shores are 

 suitable and the requisite materials abound on every side, 

 only requiring labour to make them available. Oysters are 

 not, as yet, so far destroyed at most of these places, but 

 they are obtainable by dredging ; and if laid in the 

 months of April and May would probably deposit a valu- 

 able spat in the pare cleared and prepared for them. 

 From July to the following May no care or attention is 

 necessary, (r) 



I cull the following " Development of Oyster Culture 

 in Ireland," from Land and Water, Nov. 22, 1890. 



(r) " Fish Culture." By Greville Fennell. (CasseWs Technical 

 Educator.} 



