Optimization of shellfish production carrying capacity at a farm scale

In this paper, we investigate the relationship between the production and ecological carrying capacity of shellfish cultured species (mussels, oysters, clams, etc.) and the spatial distribution of shellfish density within a licensed area. In order to achieve this goal, we used an analytical model for simulating the impact of a shellfish farm on the concentration of suspended particles or dissolved substances, namely dissolved oxygen in steady-state conditions. The results show that the impact depends on the spatial distribution of the rearing density within the licensed area. In particular, we found a family of non-homogeneous distribution of rearing density which allow one to increase the biomass yield in respect to the homogeneous one, while complying with constraints on suspended particles or dissolved substances. These results may be relevant for enhancing both the production and ecological carrying capacity of shellfish farms.