Perspectives de développement de l'élevage de la palourde japonaise Ruditapes philippinarum dans le bassin ostréicole de Marennes-Oléron

The complete Manila clam's breeding cycle (Ruditapes philippinarum ) in oysters ponds (claires) permits to obtain a length of 25 mm after 1 year with a density range of 200 animals/m2 . As the primary production is restricted, the breeding biomass during the second year is limited to 500 g.m2 corresponding to a density between 30 to 50 clams..m-2. For an increase of the production it is necessary to extend the cultivated area to the tida1 bottom of the Bay of Marennes-Oleron. It appears that the man tidal level between + 2 and + 2.5 15 necessary with a density range of 200.m-2 to reach, the market size nine months later. The harvest sould be done before winter time to avoid a large 1055 of the flesh which can cause high levels of mortality.