Enhanced growth of the pleasure oyster Crassostrea corteziensis cultured under integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) concept, using farm effluents of shrimp Penaeus vannamei

Most studies using Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) systems in shrimp aquaculture have assessed the feasibility of culturing non-native bivalve species. However, studies including native species are limited and could represent a better alternative since these organisms are adapted to local environmental conditions and do not represent a sanitary risk. Therefore, we assessed the growth performance of the native oyster Crassostrea corteziensis in IMTA system with a Mexican shrimp farm. The study included three grow-out cycles (starting in October, November and December), three stocking densities (low, medium and high), and three positions of the Nestier (R)-like tray (top, middle and bottom), in a drainage channel connected to a shrimp farm located in a mangrove zone. From all experimental conditions, the larger wet weight (WW) and shell length (SL) values were registered in October grow-out cycle, associated to warmer temperatures, from oysters at medium stocking density and at the top position (WW: 110.1 +/- 3.6 g; SL: 91.3 +/- 1.5 mm). These results suggest that grow-out cycle, stocking density and position of oysters in the Nestier (R)-like trays highly influence the performance of the cultured oyster. Additionally, C. corteziensis growth can be improved by using IMTA systems consisting of shrimp farm effluents.

Automated summary

Most studies on Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) systems in shrimp aquaculture focus on the feasibility of culturing non-native bivalve species. However, limited studies have been conducted on native species, which could be a better alternative. This study evaluates the growth performance of native oysters in an IMTA system with a Mexican shrimp farm and finds that the grow-out cycle, stocking density, and oyster position significantly affect the performance of cultured oysters. Additionally, the growth of C. corteziensis can be improved by utilizing shrimp farm effluents in the IMTA system.