The phase that follows the oyster grafting is delicate. The healthier an oyster is, the less likely it will reject the nucleus, be affected by diseases or mortalities and the more likely it will produce a higher quality cultured pearl. In order to reduce predation, oysters need to be protected by nets or baskets. They also need to be cleaned on a regular base in order to remove biofouling (faunal and floral deposits on the oyster shell), which can hinder a healthy growth and pearl production.