Growth and survival of the giant clams, Tridacna derasa, T. maxima and T. crocea, at village farms in the Solomon Islands

摘要: Abstract A series of large-scale grow-out trials for giant clams ( Tridacna derasa , T. maxima crocea ) were undertaken at 11 village farms in Solomon Islands. Eight hundred juveniles each species, measuring 20–30 mm shell length (SL), distributed equally between four replicate cages site. Growth and survival the then monitored up to 24 months. Environmental husbandry variables measured throughout these experiments. had best growth survival, attaining a mean SL 150 mm±19.8 s.d., weight 710 g±26 after months grow-out. Mean over this period was 92.2%±9.1 s.d. grew size 78.4 mm±14.9 19 months, reached 50.2 mm±8.1 22 After grow-out, 38.9%±16.6 17 39%±22.6 Factors influencing all species included water temperature, exposure wave action, clarity flow. Together, factors explained 66% 79% variation growth, depending on species. Regressions environmental against poorer fit, they 15% ), 53% 52% variability among sites. Estimated net revenue farmers growing aquarium market greatest due high survival. Although is great demand by trade, it least suitable farming because has slow low Unless rates can be enhanced considerably, probably reared more successfully land-based system.