Management Models of the Manila Clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) Fisheries in Invaded European Coastal Systems

The Manila clam ( Ruditapes philippinarum , Adam & Reeve 1850) is a non-indigenous species that was introduced in Europe (France) the 1970s for commercial purposes, and reached Portugal 1980s. Currently, it occurs several European coastal systems, from Bay of Biscay to north Mediterranean. In Portugal, present estuarine systems lagoons south, such as Ria de Aveiro, Óbidos Lagoon Sado estuary, but sharp rise prevalence this largest Portuguese Tagus, resulted exponential growth number harvesters and, consequently, an increase illegal exploitation resource. At least 1700 were estimated system annual catch volume between around 4,000 17,000 t which corresponds value €10,000,000 €23,000,000 sales. There general failure comply with current legislation, both relation harvesting marketing, well constraints arising spatial planning instruments force on estuary. sanitary standards trade bivalve mollusks presents risk public health social-economic issue resulting activity. goal study propose management models activity aim contributing create legal framework sustainable can be achieved, different where occurs. order accomplish goal, state play, framework, regulation relevant are analyzed. ascertain adequate national strategy, variety case studies France, Spain Italy studied. outcome model includes co-management strategy concessions mixed regime concession areas free areas. creation specific regulations; implementation active participation harvesters; science-based closed season maximum daily quotas improved surveillance recommended.