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Canadian Stock Assessment Secretariat
Research Document - 1999/193
Distribution,
Abundance, Biology and Fisheries Potential of the Exotic Varnish Clam (Nuttallia
obscurata) in British Columbia.
By G.E.
Gillespie, M. Parker, and W. Merilees
Abstract
Varnish
clams, Nuttallia obscurata, have recently become established in
Georgia Strait, and have been found in Barkley Sound on the west coast of
Vancouver Island and estuaries in Oregon. They are dispersing southward
into Puget Sound, and could spread northward into the Central Coast,
similar to Manila clams.
This paper
discusses distribution and dispersal of varnish clams and collects
available information on biology, ecology and population dynamics (from
the literature and other sources). This information is summarized, and
gaps in required information are identified. The fishery potential,
management approaches and assessment information requirements to develop
and evaluate the effectiveness of management tactics are discussed. The
paper suggests that varnish clams have potential as commercial and
recreational resources, and should be managed accordingly.
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