Pit, J.H., and Southgate, P.C. (2000) When should pearl oyster, Pinctada margaritifera (L.), spat be transferred from the hatchery to the ocean? Aquaculture Research, 31 (10). pp. 773-778.

PDF (Published Version) - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only

 

19

4

Abstract

Hatchery propagation of pearl oysters is relatively new and optimal hatchery protocols are still being developed. While in the hatchery, pearl oyster spat are supplied a constant and reliable food source and are protected from fluctuations in environmental conditions and predators. This study investigated the hypothesis that retaining blacklip pearl oyster, Pinctada margaritifera (L.), spat in the hatchery for longer periods, prior to transfer to the ocean, would improve growth and survival during early nursery culture. Results showed that the longer spat were retained in the hatchery, the smaller their average size at grading (3.5 months of age). At grading, spat transferred 3 weeks after settlement had a mean dorso–ventral shell height (DVH) of 9.2 ± 0.4 mm with 34% of individuals retained on a 10-mm mesh. However, spat retained in the hatchery until 5, 7 and 9 weeks after settlement, had a mean DVH of 9.0 ± 0.4, 7.8 ± 0.3 and 6.3 ± 0.4 mm respectively. Only 10% of spat transferred 9 weeks after settlement were retained on a 10-mm mesh at grading. The results probably reflect superior nutrition available in the ocean and indicate that pearl oyster spat should be transferred from the hatchery as soon as possible after settlement in order to maximize growth

Actions (Repository Staff Only)

Item Control Page