PARR-2011-G-04
To validate the robustness of the ecosystem carrying capacity models being developed for St. Peter's Bay

(funded PARR-2010-G-06)

Carrying capacity models for shellfish aquaculture are being developed in an ongoing PARR-funded project (PARR-2010-G-06). The goal of that project is to assess whether the removal of phytoplankton by densely stocked mussels in St. Peter’s Bay has exceeded the capacity of the ecosystem to renew phytoplankton populations. In this project, the robustness of the models developed as part of PARR-2010-G-06 will be validated in Malpeque Bay.  Although the total area allocated to mussel farming is similar in the two bays (~ 600 ha), the watershed volume is higher in Malpeque Bay (592,000,000 m³ vs. 40,000,000 m³). Other distinctive features include an intricate river system running into Malpeque, and multiple connection points between Malpeque and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Together these features represent a challenging and therefore suitable environment to validate the ongoing development of ecosystem models for shellfish aquaculture. A second rationale for the project relates to the management of aquaculture in a proactive manner.  The PEI Lease Management Board is engaged in a planning exercise regarding any future releases of acreage in Malpeque Bay for mussel culture. The results from this project will help identify the optimal distribution and configuration of new leases within the bay.

Principal investigator: Luc Comeau, 343 Ave University Ave, Moncton, NB; Tel.: (506) 851-2723; Email: Luc.Comeau@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Team members: Michel Starr, DFO-Québec region; Liliane St-Amand, DFO-Québec region; Thomas Guyondet, DFO-Gulf region; Rémi Sonier, DFO-Gulf region; Jon Grant, Dalhousie University; Ramon Filgueira, Dalhousie University.

2-year project (2011/12, 2012/13)