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Analytical Chem JoVE (Open Access) Citable · DOI

Design and Use of an Apparatus for Quantifying Bivalve Suspension Feeding at Sea

DOI: 10.3791/58213-v
What you'll learn
  • ✓ Construct and calibrate a gimbal-stabilized flow-through device for offshore use
  • ✓ Quantify bivalve filtration rate and suspension feeding behavior using biodeposition method
  • ✓ Collect and analyze fecal pellet samples to assess feeding variables at sea
Protocol

Biopharma Insights A flow-through device for using the biodeposition method to quantify filtration and feeding behavior of bivalve mollusks was modified for shipboard use. A two-dimensional gimbal table built around the device isolates the apparatus from boat motion, thereby allowing the accurate quantification of bivalve filtration variables at offshore shellfish aquaculture sites.

Difficulty
advanced
Total time
~4–6 hours per deployment (setup, calibration, sample collection, and processing)
Model organism
Bivalve mollusks (oysters, mussels, or other suspension feeders)

Steps

1
Build gimbal table and integrate feeding chamber

Assemble a two-dimensional gimbal table around the flow-through device to isolate it from boat motion. This mechanical isolation is critical for accurate measurements in offshore conditions.

▶ 00:56
2
Calibrate flow rate and measure gut transit time

Establish steady flow through the feeding chamber and determine the transit time of food particles through the bivalve digestive system. This establishes baseline parameters for subsequent filtration calculations.

▶ 01:54
3
Collect fecal pellet and biodeposition samples

Harvest fecal pellets and other biodeposits from the chamber collection system during the feeding trial. Preserve samples for downstream quantification of filtration rate and feeding behavior.

▶ 03:38
4
Quantify bivalve filtration and feeding metrics

Analyze collected samples to derive filtration rate, clearance rate, and other suspension feeding variables. Compare results across experimental conditions or individual organisms.

▶ 05:31
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