Nitrogen Excretion by the Pacific Oyster, Crassostrea gigas, as a Contributor to Estuarine Nutrient Cycling in Tomales Bay, California
Righetti L. 1999. Nitrogen Excretion by the Pacific Oyster, Crassostrea gigas, as a Contributor to Estuarine Nutrient Cycling in Tomales Bay, California. Journal of Shellfish Research. 18(2):726-727
Because of its importance as an aquaculture commodity, the filtering capacity and dietary requirements of the Pacific Oyster, Crassostrea gigas, have been studied in some detail. Most inquiries have focused on the question of nutrient up-take by the animal, and the portion of their intake that is converted to meat production. Excreted organic matter may be returned cycling systems, in such forms as NH4, or removed from these systems. As in estuarine systems primary production is influenced by biotic and abiotic factors. The activity of filter-feeders can alter the composition of available nutrients in the water column, thus influencing phytoplankton food webs. This study examines the organic matter excreted by C. gigas, and considers the resultant impact of oyster aquaculture on the estuarine food web of Tomales Bay, California.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Righetti, L
- Units
- PORE
- Keywords
- Aquaculture, California, Crassostrea gigas, Ecosystem, Energetics, Estuaries, Excretion, Filter feeders, Food Webs, INE, Nitrogen Cycle, Nutrient Cycle, oyster culture, Pacific giant oyster, shellfish culture, Tomales Bay, USA