Book excerpt: As the world’s population and the demand for seafood increase, the production of seafood from aquaculture has also seen massive increase and is set to continue. With wild stocks of many molluscan species depleted, aquaculture is firmly recognised as the means now, and for the future, of bridging the gap between the supply and demand of seafood. This important book covers the general biology of bivalves, hatchery culture methods and specific and comprehensive details of the cultivation of many commercially important species, including clams, oysters, mussels, scallops and abalone. Based on the author’s extensive experience and hands on research into this subject, Molluscan Shellfish Farming provides essential information for all involved in the culture of molluscs. The book will be particularly useful for aquaculture personnel on working fish farms and in academic research posts. Libraries in all universities and research establishments where aquaculture and biological sciences are studied and taught should have copies of this book available. Part of this book is based on a Buckland Lecture, sponsored by the Buckland Trustees