MARICULTURE POTENTIAL OF SHALLOW‐WATER BAHAMIAN BIVALVES

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Abstract
A survey of shallow‐water bivalves of the Bahamas has revealed numerous under‐utilized species. This study investigates the general ecology and mariculture potential of two large species, Asaphis deflorata and Codakia orbicularis.Population studies indicate patchy but often dense (28/.25 m2) assemblages of C. orbicularis in muddy intertidal creeks and turtle grass beds. A. deflorata is found in concentrations up to 64/.25 m2, usually in sandy gravel.Linear relationships of shell dimensions are correlated with total wet weight for both species over a range of shell sizes. Measurements of shell weight, meat plus liquor, and dry meat are related to shell length and total wet weight for C. orbicularis. Compositional analysis of C. orbicularis shows meats high in protein, carbohydrate, and calories, but very low in cholesterol.C. orbicularis exhibits peaks of gonad ripeness in spring and late fall, with a large percentage of the population remaining ripe throughout the summer. Maximum periods of gonad ripeness occur in July for A. deflorata. Adults of both species were induced to spawn in the laboratory and these larvae reared through metamorphosis.Deposit‐feeding bivalve clams are suggested as mariculture candidates due to the lack of phytoplankton biomass in Bahamian coastal waters. The discovery of clams having potential for chemoautotrophic nutrition through a relationship with procaryotic cells within the gill tissue introduces exciting possibilities for mariculture.

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