Growth and biometric relationship of the Indian pearl oyster Pinctada fucata (Gould) under long term onshore rearing system

Abstract

Pinctada fucata, the Indian pearl oyster was cultured under land-based system for more than seven years. The maximum growth in length and weight was reached at about 3 years. The oysters were suitable for first seeding from about 9 months. The scope for producing larger pearls was more from about 2 years. They attained maturity from 6 months onwards and spawning was found to be continuous until the age of five years. After 3 years, they lost the power of attachment with byssal threads. After 5 years the gonads shrank in size with no development of gametes and pearls of 5-6 mm size could be produced from these oysters. However, the mantle (‘Saibo’) was active and capable of producing pearl sac and suitable for implantation. The length-weight, length-thickness and weight-thickness relationships were derived and presented. The weight was important, which is directly related to thickness and ultimately useful for planning the size of beads for seeding operations