Ostriculture in Arcachon
2007-04-30
It's early in the morning when Alexandre Godalier paddles to get the oyster culture boat at La Cabane de l'Aiguillon in Bassin d'Arcachon by the french atlantic coast. Alexandre works for Dominique Aloir who is celebrating his 40th year as an "Ostriculteur" as it is called in french. He was 22 years old when he left the army and started his La Cabane de l’Aiguillon. At that time 1500 families around the basin lived by growing oysters, today it's down to 350 and the oyster parcs are much bigger. The water is sinking fast and soon long rows of oyster beds are uncovered at Le Grand Banc in Bassin d'Arcachon. Dominique Aloiur and Alexandre Godalier are turning the oyster cages, something that has to be done once a month so the oysters get the right shape.
Photos by Anders Hansson.