International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Suhani and Dr. Asma Fayaz Lone

abstract
The sustainability and profitability of pearl aquaculture across the globe faces major obstacles from pearl oyster mortality. This paper examines different factors responsible for mortality in cultured Pinctada species while analyzing the combined effects of abiotic and biotic stress elements. There are various environmental factors including temperature changes and salinity variations and oxygen depletion and pollution negatively impact oyster defense systems which makes them more susceptible to disease agents. Bacterial infections especially Vibrio spp. along with viral outbreaks and fungal diseases and protozoan parasites represent main reasons for both short-term and long-term mortality. Farming practices such as grafting procedures together with stocking densities and handling methods have been identified as factors which intensify pearl oyster losses. This paper also analyzes multiple prevention strategies for pearl oyster mortality which include biosecurity protocols and environmental monitoring alongside antimicrobial and probiotic applications and selective breeding for disease resistance. The analysis of Japanese and Australian case studies demonstrates how environmental conditions at specific sites together with management approaches influence mortality rates. The paper demonstrates that pearl oyster mortality represents an intricate problem that needs multiple approaches involving better husbandry techniques along with genetic resistance development and flexible management practices for climate adaptation. The resolution of these problems stands essential to preserve pearl production levels as well as protect the economic viability of communities that rely on pearl farming.