Predictions of mussel (Mytilus edulis) biomass on an offshore platform from single population samples

Richardson, C. A. and R. Seed

Abstract

The allometric relationships between several size variables have been studied in population samples of the mussel Mytilus edulis from two offshore production platforms. Using these relationships, together with information on mussel packing densities available from the literature and previously documented data on the growth rates of these populations, it has been possible to predict the survivorship and potential biomass of mussels on one of these platforms, the Forties Bravo oil production platform in the northern North Sea. Through a process of self thinning, population density ought to decline rapidly during the first three years of colonisation when these mussels will be growing rapidly; beyond the third year population density should stabilise at a relatively constant level. Mussel biomass by contrast should increase steeply during the first six years of colonisation and growth but thereafter biomass curves should flatten out as terminal body size is approached. The predicted total biomass (shell + wet flesh weight) of subtidal ( — 25 m) mussels on this platform is substantially higher than that of mussels from mean low water mark. Standing crop (dry flesh weight) however, is significantly greater amongst the latter, perhaps indicating that feeding conditions are generally more favourable in the surface waters. The ability to predict mussel biomass from a single sample of the population could have industrial application both for assessing the potential impact of mussel fouling on platform stability and for establishing appropriate cleaning procedures for these structures.

Date: 

1990

Journal: 

The Journal of Bioadhesion and Biofilm Research

Volume: 

2

Pages: 

289–297

Tags: