Regresar

Spat collection of mother pearl Pinctada imbricata (Roding 1798) with articial substrates in the Cariaco Gulf, Venezuela

Abstract:

We estimated the abundance of spats of Pinctada imbricata in Turpialito (Golfo de Cariaco, Venezuela) by analyzing the monthly catch in two artificial substrates, 8 and 21 m deep, between March 30, 1993 and May 30, 1994. We related environmental factors and spat abundance at both depths. Juveniles were observed during most of the period. The highest number of individuals was caught at 8 m (6 to 1176 juveniles caught monthly per 30 x 60 cm collector) and the lowest was caught at 21 m (from 21 to 163 juveniles caught monthly per 30 x 60 cm collector). The models established by multiple analyses did not pbkp_redict environmental control over the reproduction of P. imbricata. When we increased variability given by depth, we were able to build models in which the availability of food (abundance of microalgae and particulated organic material) was the pbkp_redictive environmental factor. This suggests an association of larvae in the water column where food is available. The results show a continuous and acceptable catch of juveniles in artificial collectors designed for aquaculture activities, although we observed much variation in the size of the juveniles that we caught, with a greater proportion of small sizes (from 4 to 7 mm). We thus recommend shallow waters (3 to 8 m) and a longer period (1.5 to 2 months) between one catch and the next, in order to maximize the production of spats of P. imbricata in aquaculture activities in the Golfo de Cariaco.