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Comparative analysis of modeled nitrogen removal by shellfish farms
Julie M Rose1, Suzanne B Bricker2, Joao G Ferreira3
1NOAA Fisheries, Northeast Fisheries Science Center Milford Laboratory, 212 Rogers Avenue, Milford, CT 06460, USA.
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|December 24, 2014
Summary
Shellfish aquaculture effectively removes nitrogen, mitigating coastal eutrophication. This study quantizes nitrogen removal rates across global farms, showing significant potential for nutrient management.
Area of Science:
- Aquaculture
- Environmental Science
- Marine Biology
Background:
- Coastal eutrophication is a growing environmental concern.
- Shellfish aquaculture is a proposed solution for nutrient removal.
- Nitrogen content in shellfish can be estimated from shell length.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize nitrogen removal by shellfish farms globally.
- To provide data for regulators and planners on nutrient removal potential.
- To assess the effectiveness of shellfish aquaculture for nutrient management.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Farm Aquaculture Resource Management (FARM) model.
- Analyzed data from 14 shellfish farm locations across 9 countries and 4 continents.
- Estimated nitrogen removal based on shell length:nitrogen content ratios.
Main Results:
- Modeled nitrogen removal varied from 105 to 1356 lbs/acre/year (12 to 152 g/m²/year).
- The mean nitrogen removal across all sites was 520 lbs/acre/year (58 g/m²/year).
- Results are site-specific but comparable to agricultural best management practices.
Conclusions:
- Shellfish aquaculture demonstrates significant potential for nitrogen removal in coastal ecosystems.
- The FARM model provides valuable site-specific data for nutrient management strategies.
- Shellfish farming offers a viable approach to reduce coastal eutrophication.
