Evaluación del crecimiento de ostras del pacífico (Magallana gigas, THUNBERG, 1793) en el cultivo experimental del sector Zurrones Pedernales.

Abstract

The Pacific oyster, scientifically known as Magallana gigas, is a bivalve native to the Sea of Japan, widely cultivated worldwide due to its remarkable adaptability and high commercial value. This species represents a significant source of livelihood for many coastal communities. The present study aimed to evaluate the growth and viability of M. gigas farming at Zurrones beach, Ecuador, in order to determine the suitability of this area for aquaculture development. The experiment included two cultivation cycles, each lasting six months, with a three-month interval between them, for a total of 12 months. During this period, monthly measurements of environmental and growth parameters were taken. In the first cycle, an average growth of 1 cm in length and 0.5 cm in width per month was observed, with average environmental conditions of 26.1°C temperature, 32.6 ppm salinity, and a pH of 8. The second cycle showed an average monthly growth of 1.16 cm in length and 0.64 cm in width, accompanied by an increase in average temperature to 27.3°C, with higher peaks in the last months attributed to climatic factors, while salinity and pH remained stable at 32.5 ppm and 8, respectively. In terms of survival, mortality was 19.96% in the first cycle, while in the second cycle, it reached 42.19%, likely due to thermal stress and other adverse environmental factors. The results obtained demonstrate both the potential and challenges of M. gigas farming in this region, providing valuable information for the sustainable development of aquaculture activities in Zurrones.