Sea Urchin Farming in New England

With the global demand for sea urchin roe, known as "uni," reaching up to $110 per kilogram, the aquaculture industry is increasingly looking to sea urchin farming as a sustainable solution. Rhode Island's shellfish and kelp farmers are among those exploring the potential of farming these "porcupines of the sea" to meet the demand in U.S. and Asian markets, where uni is highly sought after in sushi and high-end seafood cuisine. As wild sea urchin stocks face overfishing and habitat loss pressures, sustainable farming practices are essential to protect these valuable populations and support a viable industry.

On Wednesday, December 4, from 4 to 6 p.m., Dr. Coleen Suckling from the University of Rhode Island and Dana Morse of Maine Sea Grant will lead an online discussion on their latest research and initiatives to advance sea urchin aquaculture in New England. Part of Rhode Island Sea Grant's Coastal State Discussion Series, this event offers community members, industry professionals, and policymakers insights into how sea urchin farming can support market demand and ecological sustainability.

“There’s a strong international demand for sea urchins, driven primarily by Asian markets, but North American suppliers struggle to meet it due to dwindling wild stocks and regulatory constraints,” said Dr. Suckling. Her research team in Rhode Island has demonstrated that purple sea urchins can help control biofouling, reduce maintenance costs, and support profitable aquaculture operations.

Supported by a grant from the Northeastern Regional Aquaculture Center (NRAC), Dr. Suckling’s team is also developing hatchery production techniques for green sea urchins, ensuring that local growers have a reliable source of affordable seed stock. In partnership with the University of Maine’s Center for Cooperative Aquaculture Research and Maine Sea Grant, this project aims to share best practices and technical guidance to help growers integrate sea urchin farming into existing aquaculture operations.

“Interest in urchin farming is high in Maine, but profitability has been a challenge,” said Dana Morse, marine extension associate at Maine Sea Grant. “With consistent access to seed stock, we can start building economically viable farming systems and harness the creativity and innovation of prospective growers in the region.”

As Rhode Island’s aquaculture industry seeks diversification, sea urchin farming presents a promising path to satisfying consumer demand while promoting sustainable marine practices.