Coastal BioMarineis an industry leader devoted to the research and development for shellfish aquaculture, especially oysters and scallops. The northeast shellfish industry is in dire straights and has been for years. Step changes are called for; the type of changes that can be brought about by new, industry-altering technology. That new technology is perceived to be development of out-of-estuary production of shellfish accompanied by mixotrophic production of live algae, the food of shellfish. These new technologies are not yet ready for commercialization. Nonetheless, one of the fruits of this research and development is ready for commercialization. That development is the new disposable bioreactor now being offered by Coastal BioMarine. Mixotrophic algae production is a long-term focus for Coastal BioMarine. The natural process is different. Natural algae is produced by the process of photosynthesis wherein the carbon requirements for the cell is carbon dioxide from the air and the energy requirement for the cell is sun light. Cost analyses of options clearly indicates preference for the mixotrophic process when contemplating out-of-estuary production of shellfish year round. Mixotrophic methods are demanding in that sterile operation is essential. Once sterile techniques are mastered volumetric yields increase significantly and algae contamination becomes very infrequent. At Coastal BioMarine mixotrophic algae is produced in a low-cost, unique photobioreactor (example shown to the right) Coastal BioMarine also operates a computer-controlled, pilot scale grow-out system that is divorced from natural waters. The system is currently devoted to study of nutritional issues for oysters. In the recent past the toxic effects of waste were studied. Also, bay scallops have been studied in the system.
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The production methods developed for algae and shellfish can be advantageously applied to the production of pearls, and industry with its own set of problems. 
