Pronunciation: [kˈʌlt͡ʃ] (IPA) 
"Cultch" is a term used in fishery to describe materials, such as shells or stones, used to create habitats for oysters or other shellfish. The IPA phonetic transcription reveals that the "u" in "cultch" has a sound like "uh," leading to the spelling of the word with a "u" instead of an "o." The "ch" sound in the word is also spelled phonetically as a "tʃ" sound, which helps distinguish it from the similar-sounding word "clutch."
Cultch is a term primarily used in the context of oyster and shellfish farming, referring to any material or substance that is strategically placed in water bodies to provide a base for the attachment and growth of oysters or other shellfish. It is typically made up of rough, hard materials such as shells, rocks, pebbles, or concrete structures, which are carefully arranged on the seabed or other aquatic surfaces to create a suitable environment for shellfish colonization.
The main purpose of using cultch is to provide a habitat or substrate for young shellfish larvae to settle and grow on. Oyster and shellfish larvae, also known as spat, need a solid structure to attach to, and the rough surfaces of the cultch provide the ideal conditions for this attachment. Additionally, cultch can help to enhance water circulation and supply essential nutrients to the growing shellfish, contributing to their overall development.
Cultch can be deployed in various forms, depending on the specific requirements and available resources. Some shellfish farms may use natural materials such as broken shells or rocks, whereas others prefer artificial structures like mesh bags or specially designed cultch panels. Regardless of the material, the key goal of using cultch is to create a productive and sustainable environment for shellfish aquaculture, promoting their growth and improving the overall yield.
The spawn of oysters; the objects on which the spawn or spat is adhering.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "cultch" has its origins in Middle English and was derived from the Old English word "colc", which meant "shell" or "eggshell". Over time, the meaning of "colc" evolved to refer to any hard shell or casing, specifically the shells of oysters and other shellfish.
In the fishing industry, "cultch" came to represent materials such as shells, gravel, or rocks that are placed in bodies of water to provide a substrate for oyster larvae to attach to and grow. This usage of "cultch" dates back to at least the 16th century.
The term "cultch" is primarily associated with the oyster industry, particularly in relation to oyster reef restoration and aquaculture practices. It remains in use today to describe the materials used for creating artificial oyster beds or improving natural shellfish habitats.
