Assessment of blacklip rock oyster, <i>Saccostrea</i> lineage J, spat growth and survival in recirculating upweller and downweller nursery systems

The blacklip rock oyster, Saccostrea lineage J, has the potential to support new aquaculture developments throughout its range in tropical Indo-Pacific region, but lack of research investment understanding basic biology been a key failure point past. This study assessed J spat growth and survival downweller upweller nursery systems, with aim establishing baseline biological information evaluating performance commercialisation efforts. Downweller systems were similarly effective at rearing spat, mean dorsoventral measurement both reaching 5 mm deployment size 59 days post hatch. Growth rates reported this 0.19 0.20 day−1 upweller, respectively, are comparable other hatchery-produced subtropical bivalve spat. Based on results study, it is recommended that be held nurseries for approximately two months reach size. obtained first documentation survival, methods used provide basis commercial production species.