Slipper Limpet Feasiblity Study

This project is for a research study into the extraction of hemocyanin from the Slipper Limpet and comparing it against existing hemocyanins used in pharma products. Also the development of a plan for Slipper Limpet extraction and handling for fishermen who catch the limpet as a by-catch. Mikota will collaborate, for this project and on an ongoing basis, with local stakeholders, fisheries and fishermen to mitigate the negative impact that Slipper Limpets have had on Oyster and Scallop divers as well as SACs (Special Areas of Conservation). The plan is to also develop a basic harvesting and handling protocol and methodology for local divers and fishermen to use when they harvest slipper limpets as a by-catch product. 
 
Part of the drive is looking to improve the efficiency, and reduce costs and risks, to divers who forgo the collection of Oysters and Scallops that have limpets on them, as the law forbids their movement within the water, or their return to the sea once removed from the ocean. By providing an avenue for divers and fishermen to dispose of any limpets they may catch or harvest, it will allow them to harvest animals, without concern for the cost impact biological waste disposal of the slipper limpets will have on their business. This aspect of the project on its own could improve diver efficiency by a factor of 10, reducing costs and increasing margins and profits. The flow on effect for this is economic growth in those businesses, and probably additional job creation.
 
 
 
 
 

 

Project details

Funding amount:
EAFRD (WG RC_RDP Wales) contribution
£75630.00
Funding source:
LEADER Local Development Fund
Area:
Pembrokeshire
Completion:
Theme:
2
Measure:
19.2

Contact:

Name:
Alex Mühlhölzl
Telephone number:
07876 136446
Email project contact
Project website:
http://www.mikota.uk

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