The effect of chemical cues on settlement behaviour of blacklip pearl oyster (Pinctada margaritifera) larvae

Inducing more rapid or greater degree of settlement of blacklip pearl oyster (Pinctada margaritifera) larvae using chemical cues can significantly improve the commercial hatchery production of this valuable species. For this purpose, epinephrine, norepinephrine and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) were assessed at four concentrations (10−2, 10−3, 10−4 and 10−5 M), and in conjunction with plastic filaments for their ability to induce settlement of P....