INFECTIONS IN SOFT SHELL CLAMS (MYA ARENARIA) ACROSS LIFE STAGES AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS IN CHESAPEAKE BAY, MD

Abstract

Soft shell clams (Mya arenaria) are vital to the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. However, populations have declined, potentially due to parasites and cancers. Maryland aquaculture facilities have recently initiated efforts to support farming efforts in hopes of diversifying products. In this study, infections affecting one-year-old cultured and natural adult M. arenaria were investigated, with a focus on Perkinsus spp., Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and Disseminated Neoplasia (DN). A 9-week experiment conducted in 2024 across three rivers in Chesapeake Bay, MD, examined how environmental factors and life stages influence infections. Results show significant differences in mortality and infection rates between study sites and life stages. Mortality was highest in the Chester River and the natural adult population, linked to higher temperatures and lower salinity. Disease patterns varied; Perkinsus spp. prevalence was highest at higher temperatures and lower dissolved oxygen, and in the South River. This research provides valuable insights to support M. arenaria's potential in aquaculture.