Growth and survival rates of Meretrix lyrata (Sowerby, 1851) at different stocking densities in the clam farming area of Ben Tre province

Abstract

The farming of Meretrix lyrata (Sowerby, 1851) plays an important role in providing a nutritious food source and holds significant export value, especially after Ben Tre province received MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certification for "a sustainable fishery unit" in natural aquatic resource exploitation. However, the development of clam farming is unstable due to the lack of scientific information for proper farming management. This study aims to determine the appropriate clam farming density under natural farming conditions in Ben Tre. The experiment was conducted with two different sizes of clam seeds (2000 individuals/kg and 200 individuals/kg) at four different stocking densities. The results show that clam seeds at 2000 individuals/kg can be suitably farmed at a density of 560 individuals/m², while clam seeds at 200 individuals/kg can be suitably farmed at a density of 200 – 300 individuals/m². Additionally, the experimental results suggest management solutions for appropriate clam farming densities in the natural environment in Ben Tre.