Production potential of tidal flats for blood clam (Anadara granosa) culture in Bang-tabun bay, Phetchaburi province

Abstract

Production potential of blood clam (Anadara granosa) in Bang-tabun Bay was examined by integrating data for size distribution, growth rate, and aquatic environmental factors. Collection of data was conducted from December 2011 to May 2012. Blood clam culture areas from three muddy tidal flats; Don Bon flat, Don Klang flat, and Don Tuen flat located from the north to the south of the bay, respectively, were studied. Length and weight of clams at each station varied each month depending on the growth potential of the clam and culture management practices of farmers. The growth rate of blood clam throughout this study period ranged from 0.1–0.8 g/month. The results revealed significant correlations between blood clam growth rate, chlorophyll a and salinity. Blood clam growth rate was most rapid at the station on Don Tuen flat, which exhibited the highest overall salinity and chlorophyll a. Don Klang flat and Don Bon flat can be adversely affected by freshwater runoff and food availability limiting the utility of these areas. Overall results indicate that among the three muddy tidal flats selected for this study, Don Tuen flat is the most suitable area for blood clam culture.