Evaluation of organic matter load in different methods of oyster culture

Abstract

Using a numerical model, organic matter load from oyster culture was estimated for di.erent culture methods called "Yokusei", "Ikisu" and "Nokoshi" conducted in Etajima Bay, Japan. Annual total organic load from oyster culture was 13.5 kg P eta -1 d -1, of which "Yokusei" contributed the most. On the other hand, the organic load of "Nokoshi" was 1.5 times higher than that of "Yokusei" on the basis of a unit raft. Judging from its highest value of load/production ratio, "Nokoshi" is an environmentally stressful culture method.