Carrying capacity modeling for bivalve aquaculture: Biodeposition

Small mussel socks with and without two species of tunicates and control socks were constructed to evaluate biodeposition (sedimentation rates) associated with mussels and fouling organisms in field conditions over a 2 week period in September/October 2008. These data will be used to refine the existing DEPOMOD model. This will ultimately allow for better predictions for aquaculture management within an ecosystem-based management framework for sustainable aquaculture.

This work has been published in the journal Aquaculture: McKindsey, C.W., Lecuona, M., Huot, M., and Weise, A.M. 2009. Biodeposit production and benthic loading by farmed mussels and associated tunicate epifauna in Prince Edward Island. Aquaculture 295: 44-51.

For further information, please contact: project leader, Chris McKindsey, at Chris.Mckindsey@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.