Advances in pre-operative techniques for pearl production in the lions-paw scallop Nodipecten subnodosus: Relaxation and mantle excision

Relaxation and excision of mantle tissue from live lions-paw scallops can assist in the optimum development of pre-operative techniques for pearl production in this species. To determine the feasibility of relaxing the scallop, five scallops were exposed to each of nine relaxant treatments previously used for pearl seeding operations. Relaxation and suitable conditions for seeding operations were obtained in scallops exposed to 30 g L-1 magnesium chloride and to 1 mL L-1 2-phenoxyethanol. To determine the healing capacity and ability to sustain tissue excision, a section of mantle tissue was removed from 15 relaxed scallops. Survival 30 days after excision was 87% and all scallops showed signs of regeneration. Microscopic examination confirmed the elongation of the mantle epithelia and growth of new connective tissue. This relaxation technique is an important step in developing basic technology for pearl production, as previously accomplished with other species. This is an important tool that will improve successful production of lions-paw scallop cultured pearls. This can add significant value to the scallop-cultivating industry and the pearl industry. (C) 2012 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.