The impact of hydrographic conditions on the possibilities of rearing the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis, Lamarck) in the Rijeka dubrovačka estuary
Abstract
The paper discusses the results of research into the hydrographic conditions (temperature, salinity, oxygen, pH and transparency) of the Rijeka dubrovačka estuary and the impact of these conditions on the season and intensity of spat settlement, as well as growth to marketable size, mortality, and the index of condition of adult mussels.
Due to constant fresh water inflows the area has low salinity values at surface (often lower than 20 x 10-3) and less pronounced temperature variations than those characteristic for the Adriatic coast. Best mussel settlement was recorded at 1 m depth (1406 ind/100 cm2) in spring, and relatively fast growth and low mortality rate of adults were recorded. At 3 m depth mussels needed 4 months to reach marketable size. The quality of mussels was excellent with the highest values of index of condition (Baird's 74.62%, and Hopkins’ 17.76%).
