New Zealand's aquaculture sector could gain NZD 3 billion ($1.8bn) if early-stage losses of seed mussels -- or spat -- are reduced, according to researchers from the University of Auckland. High mortality in the first weeks of farming limits growth throughout the production cycle. He is also exploring scallop and horse mussel aquaculture, aiming to combine commercial opportunity with environmental restoration. "If you get the early stages right, you unlock possibilities much further down the line," he concluded. Advertisement XStay on the pulse Get recommendations, data, editor’s picks, and the latest news from around the seafood world straight to your in-box.