Culturing Native Marine Shellfish: Effects of Life History Parameters on Sustainability
Carolyn S. Friedman. School of Aquatic & Fishery Sciences; Don Rothaus, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife; Jonathan P. Davis, Taylor Resources Inc.; Robert Sizemore, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
R/A-85
Geoduck clam (Panopea abrupta) aquaculture is proliferating in Washington. Such activity is bringing cultured geoduck stocks in close proximity to wild populations that provide both vital ecosystem services and a valuable fishery in Washington. Reproduction between cultured and wild clams may place wild clams at risk. To assess potential interactions between the two kinds off geoducks, the project team will characterize genetic differentiation between cultured and wild clams and compare their maturation, fecundity and progeny survival rates. They will also measure fertilization success of clams at densities under wild and cultured conditions. Data from these studies will be used to evaluate risks associated with interactions involving ecologically important wild geoduck clam populations. Research findings may aid in the development of a management framework for the culture of other native clam species.