Effects of culture conditions (stocking density, water depth and aquaculture gear) on the aquaculture performance of a new Crassostrea angulata variety “Golden oyster#1”

Abstract

Bivalve molluscs are a high quality animal protein source for humans, and the demand for farmed bivalves is increasing. Among the bivalve molluscs, the Portuguese oyster Crassostrea angulata, is one of the most popular species and is intensively farmed in warm water. In order to further increase the aquaculture yield of C. angulata through cost-effective farming practices, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of stocking density, water depth and aquaculture gear on the aquaculture performance of C. angulata in the nursery and grow-out phases. The results of this study revealed that both stocking density and water depth affected the survival rate and growth rate of C. angulata in the nursery and grow-out phases. In the nursery phase, high stocking density reduced the survival rate, but was beneficial to the growth of C. angulata spats, while 1.5 m and 3 m were optimum for the survival and growth of C. angulata spats. In the grow-out phase, the use of lantern net/ rope culture, low stocking density with narrow substrate spacing and shallow water (1.5 m) were beneficial to the survival, growth and yeild of C. angulata. The results of this study can be used as a guide to further improve C. angulata aquaculture practices, and fill the knowledge gap on the effects of stocking density, water depth and aquaculture gear on C. angulata aquaculture.