Relationship between environmental variables and growth of Pteria colymbus (Mollusca Bivalvia: Pteriidae), at three cultivation depths

We studied the influence of environmental variables associated with three water depths (2, 6 and 10 m) on shell growth, soft tissues dry mass (STDM) and survival of the Caribbean winged oyster Pteria colymbus (Roding, 1798). Chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), dissolved oxygen, particulate organic matter (POM) and temperature were studied at each depth. Oysters were placed in 135 plastic baskets with five individuals in each basket. Three baskets at each depth were chosen at monthly intervals for measurements of biometric parameters, biofouling, and survival. At the end of the study, dry mass of the individuals grown at 10 m was significantly lower (Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric test KW, P < 0.05) with the highest values of STDM corresponding to oysters cultivated at 2 m depth. The principal component analysis showed an inverse (temperature) and direct relationship (Chl-a and POM) with respect to the variance observed in the STDM. Taking into account the results obtained in the yields (growth/survival) of P. colymbus we recommend carrying out their culture at water depths between 2 and 6 m.