Creating a sustainable supply of seed mussels using mātauranga Māori

Prior to the advent of plastics, ropes and twines were all made from biodegradable materials, mostly from extracted plant fibres, including from jute, sisal, hemp, flax, cotton, as well as fibres from coconut husks, known as coir. In Aotearoa New Zealand there is an extensive range of native plants that continue to provide fibres that are used by Māori for making ropes and twines, including some that are used in the sea, such as for waka (boat) lashings, anchor ropes, and fishing lines.

Therefore, the overall aim of this research project was to assess the potential for using the natural fibres from native plants known to mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) for the replacement of plastic rope in mussel aquaculture. This approach is also consistent with some mātauranga Māori that indicates there is a natural association between mussels and some plants and their fibres.