Journal of the Marine Biological Association of India

Growth of the oyster Crassostrea madrasensis (Preston) in the Pulicat Lake , South India.

Volume 27 Issue 1&2

R. Thangavelu and P. J. Sanjeevaraj

Abstract

Growth of the edible oyster Crassostrea madrasensis in Pulicat Lake has been studied by the size frequency method during the period from October 1980 to October 1981. The oyster spat collected on lime -coated tiles were suspended from a rack in the lake and reared. A mean growth of 17.6 mm in one month, 28.1 mm in 2 months, 38.1 mm in 3 months, 74.2 mm in 6 months and 92 mm and with a maximum height of 113 mm at the end of one year was observed. The rate of growth is vigorous from November to April and then it decreased. The slow rate of growth during April-May is ascertained to maturation and spawning of oysters during this period. Mortality of oysters due to predation and depletion of oxygen in the lake amounted to 57.7%. Maximum mortality was observed between the sizes of 40 mm and 79 mm.

Date : 31-12-1985