This manual is a synthesis of current methodologies pertinent to the intensive hatchery culture of bivalve molluscs. It encompasses both the similarities and differences in approach in rearing clams, oysters and scallops in different climatic zones. All aspects of the culture process are described, together with basic considerations in choosing a site for hatchery development and in the design of a suitable facility. It also includes the post-hatchery handling of larvae in remote setting and also of spat in both land- and sea-based nurseries. This document is intended to assist both technicians entering the field as well as entrepreneurs researching investment opportunities in bivalve culture.

This manual is a synthesis of current methodologies pertinent to the intensive hatchery culture of bivalve molluscs. It encompasses both the similarities and differences in approach in rearing clams, oysters and scallops in different climatic zones. All aspects of the culture process are described, together with basic considerations in choosing a site for hatchery development and in the design of a suitable facility. It also includes the post-hatchery handling of larvae in remote setting and also of spat in both land- and sea-based nurseries. This document is intended to assist both technicians entering the field as well as entrepreneurs researching investment opportunities in bivalve culture.

This publication contains guidance on establishing a bivalve hatchery, covering both the technicalities of setting up and operating a hatchery, as well as some basic scientific background issues. Information is given for each stage of rearing: broodstock conditioning, algal culture, hatchery, nursery and growout of juveniles; including the physical requirements and culture considerations and procedures for each rearing stage. The final chapter on economic considerations provides an insight into the labour involved for each stage of production, along with a list of equipment and supplies, which may be used as a template for a new installation. It includes a CD-ROM with the complete text of the complete publication.

U.S. mariculture production of bivalve molluscs-those cultivated in the marine environment-has roughly doubled over the last 25 years. Although mariculture operations may expand the production of seafood without additional exploitation of wild populations, they still depend upon and affect natural ecosystems and ecosystem services. Every additional animal has an incremental effect arising from food extraction and waste excretion. Increasing domestic seafood production in the United States in an environmentally and socially responsible way will likely require the use of policy tools, such as best management practices (BMPs) and performance standards. BMPs represent one approach to protecting against undesirable consequences of mariculture. An alternative approach to voluntary or mandatory BMPs is the establishment of performance standards for mariculture. Variability in environmental conditions makes it difficult to develop BMPs that are sufficiently flexible and adaptable to protect ecosystem integrity across a broad range of locations and conditions. An alternative that measures performance in sustaining key indicators of ecosystem state and function may be more effective. Because BMPs address mariculture methods rather than monitoring actual ecosystem responses, they do not guarantee that detrimental ecosystem impacts will be controlled or that unacceptable impact will be avoided. Ecosystem Concepts for Sustainable Bivalve Mariculture finds that while performance standards can be applied for some broad ecosystem indicators, BMPs may be more appropriate for addressing parameters that change from site to site, such as the species being cultured, different culture methods, and various environmental conditions. This book takes an in-depth look at the environmental, social, and economic issues to present recommendations for sustainable bivalve mariculture.

As the world’s population and the demand for seafood increase, the production of seafood from aquaculture has also seen massive increase and is set to continue. With wild stocks of many molluscan species depleted, aquaculture is firmly recognised as the means now, and for the future, of bridging the gap between the supply and demand of seafood. This important book covers the general biology of bivalves, hatchery culture methods and specific and comprehensive details of the cultivation of many commercially important species, including clams, oysters, mussels, scallops and abalone. Based on the author’s extensive experience and hands on research into this subject, Molluscan Shellfish Farming provides essential information for all involved in the culture of molluscs. The book will be particularly useful for aquaculture personnel on working fish farms and in academic research posts. Libraries in all universities and research establishments where aquaculture and biological sciences are studied and taught should have copies of this book available. Part of this book is based on a Buckland Lecture, sponsored by the Buckland Trustees

Nonnative Oysters in the Chesapeake Bay discusses the proposed plan to offset the dramatic decline in the bay's native oysters by introducing disease-resistant reproductive Suminoe oysters from Asia. It suggests this move should be delayed until more is known about the environmental risks, even though carefully regulated cultivation of sterile Asian oysters in contained areas could help the local industry and researchers. It is also noted that even though these oysters eat the excess algae caused by pollution, it could take decades before there are enough of them to improve water quality.

This book presents the biology, culture techniques, research and development, and future of the fishery of some of the most important bivalve mollusks cultured throughout the world. The book emphasizes those species that are truly cultured during some part of their life cycle rather than those that are harvested from natural populations. Graphs and figures summarize fisheries information and provide quick access to important production figures. Species covered include oysters, soft-shell and hard-shell clams, scallops, mussels, pearl oysters, razor clams, cockles and giant clams. Geographic areas featured include United States, Mexico, South and Central America, Europe, India, Japan, China, Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, and the coral atolls of the Pacific Ocean. Estuarine and Marine Bivalve Mollusk Culture brings together the lifetime efforts of the late Dr. Winston Menzel to characterize and improve bivalve mollusk culture worldwide. Aquaculturalists, private oyster and bivalve culturalists, and fisheries scientists will find this book to be an invaluable guide to bivalve mollusk culture.