Work

Settlement of juveniles of pearl oyster (Pinctada imbricata) on artificial collectors in Caraguatatuba, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: In Southeastern Brazil, there is good cultivation potential for the pearl oyster Pinctada imbricata, which is often found on mussel ropes or seed collectors across the north coast of Sao Paulo State. Despite this, very few studies have focused on the biology of this species in Brazil. This research aimed to partially address this lack of information by evaluating the optimal season and preferred depth range (surface, first and second metres of depth) for the settlement of juvenile P. imbricata on artificial collectors. Two replicate artificial collectors made from braided fishing nets and comprising of horizontally and vertically suspended lines were deployed at Cocanha Beach, Brazil, and left in situ for a period of 5 months. At the end of the deployment period, the density of juveniles was significantly greater on the surface than the first and second metres of depth. It was also found that the period from November to March was more favourable for the placement of collectors and settlement of juveniles. Furthermore the results of the study confirm that is feasible to capture juvenile P. imbricata using artificial collectors to provide a continuous supply of commercial cultures.

Source: Aquaculture Research

DOI: 10.1111/are.12503

Authors: Ligia Coletti Bernadochi, José Luiz Alves, Helcio Luis de Almeida Marques

Institution: Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios

Language: English

Topic: Marine Bivalve and Aquaculture Studies

Subfield: Aquatic Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Life below water

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo, Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior