On March 19, 2024, Students from the College of Micronesia-FSM’s Marine Science & Aquaculture class, guided by science instructor Peltin Olter Pelep, embarked on a site visit to the COM Nett Point aquaculture hatchery. The students were introduced to the sea cucumber hatchery operations methods, from broodstock collection, spawning, and larval rearing, Nursery -1 in the incubator, and lectures on Nursery-2 and grow-out farming methods.

Led by the hatchery project staff members Rex, Clayton, and Balenko, the students were given an overview of the incubator’s operations and species samples via microscope for observation.

Instructor Peltin demonstrated his interest in and support for the hatchery’s efforts, especially its role in promoting sustainable practices of Micronesian marine resources. He emphasized the importance of conservation efforts to safeguard the sea cucumber species from overharvesting in the wild. Peltin encouraged his students to consider internships at the hatchery, recognizing the greater opportunity for them to gain professional skills and knowledge in sustainable aquaculture practices.

Instructor Peltin hopes to take his students to the nursery farms at Nihco Marine Park and Grow-out farms later to observe and learn about the third and fourth stages of the Program, Nursery-2 and Grow-out, respectively.