Biological and Biotechnical Aspects of Organization and Functioning of the Oyster Hatchery in the Black Sea

This guide encompasses the experience gained by the authors when cultivating the Pacific oyster in the experimental hatchery of IBSS and the international experience described in literature. The functioning of oyster hatcheries is based on the knowledge of the species biology. The guide provides an opportunity to acquire knowledge for managing different stages of the production cycle. Therefore, it can be useful for rearing oyster larvae and spat in both experimental and commercial hatcheries. The guide includes a discussion of choosing the right place for the hatchery and the calculations of the required space, sea- and freshwater volumes, amounts and concentrations of microalgae and the necessary equipment for obtaining 5 million specimens of spat during the spawning. A description of the developmental biology of the Pacific oyster and different microalgae species used as feed for producers, larvae, and spat is given. Breeding achievements are presented in the selection of commercially valuable traits of oyster, such as enhanced growth, survival, and disease resistance, which can increase reliability and economic viability of the hatchery in the near future. Genetic manipulations with ploidy for producing tetraploid and triploid oysters are described. The book is recommended for researchers – biologists and biotechnologists, university teachers, biological science students, aquaculture specialists, and engineers.