Stocking density effect on the growth and mortality of juvenile European flat oyster ( <i>Ostrea edulis</i> Linnaeus, 1758)

The effect of stocking density on the growth and mortality European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis Linnaeus, 1758) reared in lantern nets was evaluated, starting from spat up to end juvenile phase. Oysters were deployed a raft Basque coast (SE Bay Biscay) for 18 months. divided into four densities ranging 25% 100% surface coverage. At experiment, oysters an initial mean height wet weight 22.79 ± 3.70 mm 1.00 0.30 g reached values 55.86 8.21 19.08 9.66 g, respectively. Although significant differences detected at different densities, these not dependent. On other hand, increased with time showing relatively high (27%–38%), but especially study when highest showed 50%. In conclusion, had no growth, negative survival density. A 75% is recommended as optimum rearing O. coast.