Assessment of bivalve carrying capacities and seeding densities in aquaculture areas of Jiaozhou Bay, China, using ecological modeling and the food balance

Abstract The increasing growth of the bivalve‐culture industry necessitates a scientific assessment carrying capacity (CC) this aquaculture system, in order to ensure sustainability. Here, using marine plankton ecological model and food balance, bivalve CCs were estimated for zones Jiaozhou Bay (JZB), an important center China. results indicated that mainly depended on filtration rates, which turn regulated by temperature. Manila clams, razor scallops lowest August–September, while oysters mussels October. For all taxa, higher areas with primary production. Further evaluation present cultures saturated, high mortality rates. To improve culture quality efficiency, seeding density clam, most widely farmed species JZB, should be reduced ~700 individuals (ind.)/m 2 . We also recommend reducing densities oysters, 345, 60, 165 ind./m , scallop 280 ind./cage. Our methods provide basis further assessments stocking capacities promotion sustainable, healthy other bays.