Managing the health of mussel (Mytilus spp.) seed from Newfoundland - the effects of thermal stressors, transport times, storage conditions and anti-biofouling treatments on the short-term and long-term performance of mussel seed

Vickerson, Andrew (2009) Managing the health of mussel (Mytilus spp.) seed from Newfoundland - the effects of thermal stressors, transport times, storage conditions and anti-biofouling treatments on the short-term and long-term performance of mussel seed. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The application of chemical treatments to rid seed of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS), in conjunction with temperature shocks and long transport times, has the potential to adversely affect the health and long-term performance of mussel seed from Newfoundland, which are approximately 30-40 mm in length and 1-1.5 yr of age. The Neutral Red Assay and the ability of seed to attach via their byssal threads were used as rapid tests for assessing the short-term performance of mussel seed exposed to temperature shocks, long transport/storage times (0, 24 and 48 h), storage conditions (ice or no ice) and 30 s chemical dips (4% hydrated lime, vinegar and 300 ppt brine) either before (rinse or no rinse) or after transport. Short-term performance was correlated with the long-term performance (length, biomass, survival and condition index) of seed following an 8 month in situ grow-out. Stress associated with harvesting, storage/transport, and socking can be minimized if temperature fluctuations are kept to a minimum and seed is covered during transport. Solutions of 4% hydrated lime or 300 ppt brine can be applied to seed before, with or without a seawater rinse, or after a 24 h transport period, without negatively affecting the long-term performance of seed. The use of vinegar as a defouling agent shows promise as being useful when applied either before transport followed by a seawater rinse or after transport. Although similar AIS management strategies have been investigated in other regions, few studies have investigated the impacts of these strategies on the health of seed, and no prior research of this nature has been performed on seed from Newfoundland.

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