Effects of stocking density on growth and survival of juvenile european flat oysters (Ostrea edulis) in lantern net culture
This is a suggestion for a Degree Project for Bachelor's and Master's levels at the Department of Marine Sciences. Degree projects at the Department of Marine Sciences are done independently and must be written and assessed individually.
Subject: Marine Biology
Start: May 2026
Level: Bachelor or Master’s thesis 30 - 60 hp, suitable for students in marine biology, ecology, or environmental science
Supervisor: Susanne Lindegarth, Nadjejda Espinel Velasco
Location: Tjärnö Marine Laboratory
Background
The European flat oyster (Ostrea edulis) is a species of significant ecological and commercial value. Historically abundant in European waters, its populations have declined dramatically due to overfishing, disease, and habitat loss. As a result, there is growing interest in restoration efforts and sustainable aquaculture practices to support the recovery of this native species.
A key challenge in O. edulis aquaculture, particularly in suspended culture systems such as lantern nets, is optimizing stocking density. Stocking density can have profound effects on both growth and survival. At high densities, competition for food and space can lead to reduced growth rates and increased mortality. At very low densities, production efficiency may be suboptimal, and space is underutilized. Identifying the optimal density that balances growth, survival, and efficient use of infrastructure is therefore critical for both commercial aquaculture and restoration projects.
Project Description
This experiment aims to evaluate how different stocking densities of juvenile O. edulis influence their growth and survival over a growing season. By conducting the experiment across three different field sites, the study will also assess whether the effects of density are consistent across varying environmental conditions. The results will provide valuable guidance for optimizing flat oyster culture in suspended systems.
Main research questions:
- How does juvenile stocking density affect the growth rate of O. edulis in suspended lantern net culture?
- How does juvenile stocking density affect the survival of O. edulis in suspended lantern net culture?
- Do the effects of stocking density on growth and survival vary across different field sites with distinct environmental conditions?
Requirements
The work will be done at Tjärnö Marine Laboratory in collaboration with Ostrea AB at Sydkoster. Infrastructure to perform the experiments will be set up at multiple sites around Tjärnö and Kosterhavet.
Some experience from fieldwork at sea is required, such as small boat operations.