Effects of Light on Growth of Oysters, Mussels, and Quahaugs

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Abstract
Rearing experiments with small shellfish were carried out in Bideford River, Prince Edward Island (salinity 28%) and in Bras d''Or Lake, Nova Scotia (salinity 20%). Paired lots were grown in light-exposed and shaded compartments of floating trays and in an exposed and a shaded area on an intertidal beach. Shading increased linear shell growth of oysters (Crassostrea virginica) and mussels (Mytilus edulis) approximately 1 1/2 times but reduced the thickness: length ratio. Quahaug (Mercenaria mercenaria) shell growth and shell proportions were unaffected by treatment differences. Light exposure increased plumpness of meats of all species, and in oysters it increased specific gravity, fluting, and pigmentation of shells.

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