Biomass and Production of the Unionid, Elliptio complanata (Lightfoot) in an Old Reservoir in New Brunswick, Canada

Abstract

In Morice Lake, New Brunswick, Elliptio complanata (Lightfoot) has a numerical density of 15.92± 1.24/m2 and an organic matter standing stock of 10.69 g/m2. Annual production of 2.14 g/m2/y is divided amongst tissue (69.6%), organic shell material (27.6%) and glochidia (2.8%). The high annual production relative to other populations is thought to be a reflection of the high numerical abundance which results from the high availability of suitable substrates at appropriate depths coupled with adequate fish host populations.