Optimization of blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) seed culture using recirculation aquaculture systems

摘要

By introducing recirculation aquaculture systems (RAS) in the nursery phase of the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) (17-18mm), we aimed at a similar growth and survival and a similar water quality compared to the commonly used flow-through systems (FTS). To calculate water flow and size of the biofilter, a series of experiments were done to determine clearance rate (9.26mLmin(-1)), pseudo faeces threshold (60000 cells Pavlova lutheri mL(-1)), nitrogen production (0.00065mg TANh(-1) ind(-1) and 1.6x10(-5)mg NO2-Nh(-1) ind(-1)) and oxygen consumption (0.03 +/- 0.01mg O(2)h(-1)ind(-1)). RAS showed no significant differences in water quality (0.06mg TANL(-1); 7.7mg O2L-1) and growth performance of mussel seed specific growth rate (SGR=5% day(-1)) after the experimental period of 4weeks compared with FTS. The low water refreshment, 10% per day, as well as the constant chlorophyll concentrations (9.76 +/- 1.06gL(-1)), suggests the potential of RAS as culture system for mussel seed.