PEI Mussel Monitoring Program Report. Technical Report # 254. Gary Smith Mussel Monitoring Technician & Aaron Ramsay Aquaculture Biologist

Transcription

1 PEI Mussel Monitoring Program 2014 Report Technical Report # 254 By Gary Smith Mussel Monitoring Technician & Aaron Ramsay Aquaculture Biologist Prince Edward Island Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Aquaculture Division Montague, PEI 548 Main Street C0A 1R0

2 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The PEI Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development wishes to acknowledge the cooperation of the mussel growers whose leases were used as sites for the collection of mussel and water samples for the Mussel Monitoring Program, as well as others who assisted in the delivery of this program. As well, the Department would like to acknowledge Tyler Bernard for his work in sample collection and analysis. - i -

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS... i SUMMARY... 1 INTRODUCTION... 3 MATERIALS AND METHODS... 5 Equipment... 5 Methods and Procedures Spat-fall Prediction Mussel Water Temperature Phytoplankton Monitoring Tunicate Larvae Predator and Fouling Monitoring Reporting RESULTS AND DISCUSSION APPENDIX I Mussel Monitoring Data by Area APPENDIX II Maps of Sample Sites APPENDIX III Water Temperature Graphs for Sample Sites APPENDIX IV Mussel Steamed Information APPENDIX V Maps Displaying Current Known Range of Invasive Tunicates in PEI ii -

4 SUMMARY The information collected from the Mussel Monitoring Program (MMP) is provided to mussel growers and processors to assist in the management of their mussel farms and mussel harvesting plans. Staff of the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development (DFARD) collected information related to mussel spat-fall, mussel meat yield, water temperature, the presence of potentially toxic algal species, tunicate larvae, and the presence of predators and fouling on mussel seed and grows-out lines. The information was collected from 33 mussel spat collection and growing areas over a period of 31 weeks in Information on mussel spat-fall prediction was collected from May 7 th to July 15 th and on potentially toxic phytoplankton from September 2 nd to December 4 th. Monitoring for the presence of potentially toxic phytoplankton was conducted in cooperation with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The cooperation between CFIA and DFARD has increased the program efficiency. In addition, water samples from mussel grow-out areas were examined for the presence of mussel larvae from July to early December. Growers often delay raising their crop and the socking of new mussel seed in the fall until the mussel spawning period is over and larvae can no longer be detected. This information assists the growers in avoiding a second mussel set on both new and old mussel crop. Mussel landings in 2013 were 44.1 million lbs, a decrease of 5.9 million lbs over the landings in Landings for 2014 were not finalized at the time of printing of this report. The meat yield values of mussels collected from the monitoring stations in 2014 varied greatly (18 44 Canadian meat yield values) from area to area without evidence of apparent trends. There was an excellent set of mussel seed in most areas this year. Treatment for starfish, green algae and tunicates is very important in maintaining a good set of spat on collectors. There were no reports of seed shortage this year. Temperature data collected at each of the sample sites were within normal ranges for mussel growth and performance

5 Low counts of Pseudo-nitzschia sp. were recorded for most mussel production areas from the water samples collected for the toxic phytoplankton monitoring portion of the program. No toxins were detected in the analysis of mussel tissue. There have been no elevated levels of domoic acid detected in shellfish since the fall of 2006 and, as a result, there were no closures of mussel harvesting areas due to presence of toxins. Tunicates continue to cause fouling problems for many mussel growers, with high densities of vase tunicates occurring in Montague River, Brudenell River, St. Mary s Bay, Murray River, Boughton River and Cardigan River. The density of the clubbed tunicate remains high in the Lennox Channel and March Water portions of Malpeque Bay and in Darnley Basin. Both the clubbed and vase tunicates are being managed through treatment activities. The two colonial tunicate species remain at high levels in Tracadie Bay, St. Peter s Bay, Nine Mile Creek and Savage Harbour. For information on the locations of all four aquatic invasive tunicates in PEI, see the invasive species locator maps in Appendix V. Tunicate larvae numbers, listed by species, are shown in Appendix I. Vase tunicate larvae were present in water samples from July 3 rd until November 18 th. The peak vase tunicate larval count was observed in water samples collected from Boughton River on September 4 th, with 194 larvae being counted in a 150 L water sample. Clubbed tunicate larvae were present in water samples collected in March Water and Darnley Basin from late June until early October, peaking in March Water on August 21 st, with 85 larvae detected. Information collected over the 2014 season was communicated to mussel growers via the use of a voice mail system and also through the Mussel Monitoring website at

6 INTRODUCTION The Prince Edward Island Mussel Monitoring Program (MMP) is a technical service provided to cultured mussel growers and processors by the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development (DFARD). The MMP has operated annually since 1982 during the ice-free season providing mussel growers and processors with a variety of information to assist them in the management of their operations. Information is collected for the MMP on mussel spat-fall prediction, mussel meat yield analysis, water temperature, the detection and estimation of the numbers of potentially toxic algae species (such as the toxin producing diatom, Pseudo-nitzschia sp., and dinoflagellates, Alexandrium sp. and Dinophysis sp.), the presence and number of tunicate larvae, and the presence and quantity of predators and fouling organisms. As well, information on mussel meat quality of harvestsized mussels collected at the sample sites (i.e. meat yield and spawning condition) is made available over the season to the mussel growers and processing plants through the MMP. This information assists the processing plants in ensuring the consumer receives a high quality product (Figure 1). Figure 1. Mussel socks being inspected by MMP staff for fouling organisms

7 The department has expanded the role of the MMP over time in response to requests for additional information by the mussel industry. As well, the information collected for this program is often utilized by other government and academic research agencies and additional information has been collected for researchers when possible. The MMP has provided this assistance without substantially re-directing its resources from its mandate as a technical advisory service to the Prince Edward Island (PEI) mussel growers. In 2013, the cultured mussel industry produced 44,112,789 lbs of product for market with a landed value of $28,673,000, which was a decrease in both landings and value, as compared to 2012 (Figure 2). The mussel industry is an important contributor to the PEI economy and has resulted in the creation of an estimated 1,500 full-time jobs and numerous spin-off industries. The economic value of the industry to PEI is estimated at over $60 million dollars. Figure 2. PEI mussel landings and values from 1988 to The mussels grown in PEI waters are of high quality because the growing areas are abundant in food and have excellent water exchange. The rivers and bays on PEI are well sheltered from prevailing winds making them ideal for mussel aquaculture. The objective of this report is to document the information that was communicated to mussel growers during the 2014 season through either the MMP website or through the dedicated phone message system

8 MATERIALS AND METHODS Equipment 17' Boston Whaler, 90 hp Mercury outboard motor and Shorelander boat trailer YSI temperature meter, Vemco automated temperature recorders, water pump (50L/minute capacity), 64 micron nitex screen for collecting mussel larvae, 20' clear plastic tubing (1.5" in diameter) and 2.5 gallon container Electronic weigh scale, calipers and cooking equipment for meat yield analysis Microscope, slides and pipettes for mussel larvae and phytoplankton observation Vacuum pump and filtering apparatus for phytoplankton slide preparation Field books, sample bags and cooler Computer and printer to analyze and store data Methods and Procedures The data collected by the MMP is to provide information on six main areas related to mussel aquaculture: 1. Mussel spat-fall prediction 2. Mussel meat yield 3. Water temperature 4. Presence of potentially toxic phytoplankton 5. Tunicate larvae sampling 6. Predators and fouling organisms Thirty-three mussel growing/spat collection areas are sampled weekly for the MMP (Figure 3). Maps demonstrating the specific locations of each of the sample sites are displayed in Appendix II. Figure 3. Sample collection sites for the Mussel Monitoring Program

9 1. Spat-fall Prediction The numbers and size range of mussel larvae were determined from water samples collected weekly at each of the sample locations from early May until early July. This information was used to assist mussel growers in predicting the timing and abundance of mussel spat-fall. The growers use this information to determine when to either deploy, or to raise and clean their collectors in order to maximize spat collection. Mussel larvae information was also collected from July to early December at some grow-out sites to provide growers with information on mussel second set. Some growers attempt to avoid or reduce the amount of second set from settling on market mussels by keeping the mussels submerged until mussel larvae are no longer detected in the water column. The growers also avoid the second set from settling on newly socked mussels by delaying the socking process until after the second set is complete. To collect mussel larvae for this analysis, water samples are pumped from the top two to three meters of the water column through a 64 µm screen at the rate of 50 liters per minute for three minutes (Figure 4 left). The mussel larvae become trapped on the screen surface and are washed off with 10 ml of previously screened seawater into a sample bottle. A 1 ml subsample of the larval concentrate is examined utilizing a compound microscope to determine the abundance and average size of the mussel larvae. The quantity of mussel larvae present is quantified according to the following scale: Low = 1 5 Medium = 6 15 High = >15 Figure 4. MMP field crew collecting water samples and water quality information

10 2. Mussel Market size mussels were held in wire cages at each monitoring station for meat yield analysis. Samples for meat yield analysis were collected from each of the monitoring stations from May 7 th to December 4 th. The following procedure is used for the determination of mussel meat yields: A. Thirty market mussels, 55 mm or greater in length, (generally months old) are randomly selected and cleaned in fresh running water. B. Mussels are steamed in the absence of water for ten minutes, and then the meats are shucked from the shells (Figure 5). C. The steamed meat yield, expressed as a percentage, is determined according to the formula: = Steamed Meat Weight x 100 (Steamed Shell + Steamed Meat Weight) D. The European meat yield, expressed as a percentage, is determined according to the formula: European = Steamed Meat Weight x 100 Raw Weight of Sample Mussel meat yield information is beneficial to growers to assist in the determination of the mussel spawning condition in a river system. The information, when collected over a long-term basis, is of interest in the analysis of potential trends in mussel condition. This information is displayed graphically in Appendix IV. Figure 5. Mussels being steamed for meat yield analysis

11 3. Water Temperature Water temperatures were recorded from 1 to 2 metres below the surface at each site, at the time of each site visit, throughout the season. In addition, automatic temperature recording devices, set to record hourly temperature readings, were placed approximately 2 metres below the surface in several of the mussel growing areas. The hourly collected temperature data provided additional information on water temperature profiles throughout the ice-free season. This information assists growers in comparing temperature conditions with the development of mussel spawning condition over the season in various river systems. As well, in the event that shellfish mortality occurs, it is beneficial to have the information on temperatures over the season to assist in the investigation of the cause of the mortality. Temperature profiles taken from each of the mussel monitoring stations can be found in Appendix III and also in Appendix I for specific sampling days. 4. Phytoplankton Monitoring The monitoring for the presence of potentially toxic phytoplankton began on September 2 nd and continued until December 4 th in It is during this time period that toxic algae blooms have most frequently occurred in PEI waters. This portion of the program was conducted in conjunction with the Canadian food Inspection Agency (CFIA) who share in the collection of samples with staff of the MMP. The procedure utilized to collect, identify and quantify potentially toxic algae is documented in the DFO procedures manual A field and laboratory manual for the collection, identification and enumeration of toxic marine phytoplankton by John C. Smith and Kevin Pauley. Department staff collected water samples weekly from sites in Boughton River, Brudenell River, Cardigan River, Covehead Bay, Murray River, Savage Harbour, St. Mary s Bay, St. Peter s Bay and Tracadie Bay. Mussel samples were also collected by department staff from these sites for the CFIA toxin monitoring program. CFIA staff collected water and mussel samples from Darnley Basin, Lennox Channel, March Water, New London Bay, and Rustico Bay for both programs

12 Information on the identification and quantity of potentially toxic phytoplankton species observed in the water samples were reported to CFIA and also were made available to growers on the MMP website and voice mail message system. The numbers of algal cells observed were reported according to the following scale: Trace = cells/l Low = ,000 cells/l Medium = 50, ,000 cells/l High = greater than 350,000 cells /L The results of the phytoplankton analysis for 2014 are reported in the results section of this report (Appendix I). The information collected from this portion of the program is beneficial to provide both industry and CFIA with an early warning of the possibility of a bloom of potentially toxic algae occurring in an area. The presence of toxins in mussel tissue is monitored by CFIA, and closures are based upon these levels; however, the information on the types and quantity of phytoplankton present in the water column is invaluable as early warning that an event might occur. If the samples show that numbers of a potentially toxic algae species are present and increasing in a river system CFIA may increase their sampling of mussels from the area and industry can plan future mussel harvests avoiding the algae bloom and ensuring that a safe product is sold to the market place. 5. Tunicate Larvae The numbers of tunicate larvae (vase and clubbed; see Figure 6) were counted in water samples collected from tunicate infested areas (see Appendix I for numbers of tunicate larvae). The purpose of obtaining the larvae numbers was to: inform growers when the tunicates start and stop spawning, the species of tunicate larvae present, and to provide an indication of the amount of larvae that were present over the season. Research results have shown that there may not be a direct correlation between the timing and density of tunicate recruitment and the observation of tunicate larvae and larvae densities in the water samples collected for MMP. However, the mussel industry has requested that this information be collected by the program. The information may show changing trends in tunicate populations over time. Tunicate counts were conducted weekly from mid-june to early December. Water samples were collected by pumping water through a 64 μm sieve using a water pump at the rate of 50 L per minute for 3 minutes (a total of 150 L per sample). Tunicate larvae were identified and counted in the entire water - 9 -

13 sample. The larvae counts were made available for the growers on the MMP website and voice mail message system ( ). Figure 6. Vase tunicate (A) and clubbed tunicate (B) larvae. 6. Predator and Fouling Monitoring Spat lines were examined for the general appearance of the crop and for the presence of predators (such as starfish and sea ducks), fouling organisms such as algae, hydroids, tunicates or sea anemones and also for the presence of silt. Mussel growers are notified of any potential problems that are noted by technical staff. If growers observe any unusual fouling organisms or aquatic invasive species that are outside of their known range they are asked to either contact this department or Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). Staff of either department will be available to identify the organisms and provide more information on the species. Information and maps showing the current known ranges of all aquatic invasive tunicates in PEI waters is available on the MMP website, in Appendix V of this report, or may be obtained by contacting staff of either our department or DFO

14 Reporting The information collected from the MMP is made available throughout the field season through a telephone voice mail message system and also through the mussel monitoring website. Mussel growers are able to access this information at any time. The telephone numbers are Charlottetown exchange and long distance The web address is RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Information collected on quantity and size ranges of mussel larvae, meat yields, water temperature, numbers of potentially toxic algae and tunicate larvae from each monitoring location are presented in the tables in Appendix I. A high quantity of mussel seed (i.e. Figure 7) was collected in most areas in High numbers of setting size mussel larvae were observed in water samples at most locations from mid June until early July. Figure 7. Mussel seed being harvested from collector ropes

15 In 2014, low numbers (less than 10,000 cells/l) of Pseudo-nitzschia sp. cells (Figure 8) were observed in most locations. In past years, there were frequent fall blooms of Pseudo-nitzschia sp., which provided a significant food source for cultured mussels prior to the winter period. However, there have been no closures to mussel harvesting due to domoic acid toxicity since For example, in Cardigan River the numbers of Pseudo-nitzschia sp., (a non-toxin producing form), peaked in the late fall of 2001 at 5.6 million cells/l of seawater and in 2002 at 9.3 million cells/l. In 2013, the peak numbers of Pseudo-nitzschia sp. cells was 3.2 million cells/l (Lennox Channel). Figure 8. Pseudo-nitzschia sp., a potentially toxic phytoplankton species. Invasive tunicate species continue to cause fouling problems for the mussel industry. There are four invasive tunicate species located in PEI waters: the solitary clubbed and vase tunicates and the colonial violet and the golden star tunicates (see Appendix V for maps showing the most current tunicate distribution). The clubbed tunicate remains at high levels in the Lennox Channel and March Water areas of Malpeque Bay and in Darnley Basin. The density of the vase tunicate continues to be very high in the Montague and Brudenell Rivers, St. Mary s Bay, Murray River, Cardigan River and Boughton River. Colonial tunicates have been detected in all mussel production areas on PEI

16 Currently, there are restrictions on shellfish transfers into and between areas due to tunicate infestations. For the most recent information on the restrictions please contact the local DFO office. Maps depicting the locations of the aquatic invasive tunicates in PEI are displayed in Appendix V, and may also be viewed on both the MMP and DFO s websites. Tunicate larvae numbers, by species, which were detected in the water samples, are shown in Appendix I. Vase tunicate larvae were present in water samples from July 3 rd (approximately 1 month later, as compared to 2013) until November 18 th. The peak larval count of the vase tunicate was in Boughton River on September 4 th with 194 larvae being counted in a 150 L water sample. Clubbed tunicate larvae were present in water samples collected in March Water and Darnley Basin from late June until early October, peaking in March Water on August 21 st with 85 larvae detected. Sea duck predation on newly socked mussels continues to be a problem in PEI. The most problematic species are scaup, long-tailed ducks and scoters. Acoustic deterrents and on-water presence are the most common and effective techniques used by the industry to date to manage sea ducks around mussel farms. It continues to be a priority of the department to support the testing of new and innovative sea duck deterrent methods. During the fall of 2014 the department supported a project where a falconer was hired by a local company to determine if the use of falcons to deter sea ducks from mussel leases was a viable option (Figure 9). The falcons were not successful in deterring sea ducks during the trial; however, additional work may be required. Figure 9. Falconer training peregrine falcon (left). Male peregrine on left and female saker falcon on right (right)

17 The mussel industry has grown significantly from its small beginnings in the 1980s. Throughout the development of the industry there have been numerous challenges to overcome. Most recently, tunicate fouling and sea duck predation have been the prominent issues. The industry is very active and has shown a remarkable ability to innovate, developing new technologies and growing practices to overcome these challenges

18 APPENDIX I Mussel Monitoring Data by Area

19 Baltic River Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun High Jun High Jun High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 25, Bentick Cove Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med Jun Med Jun High Jun High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 23,

20 Boughton River Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae May May May Jun Low Jun Med Jun High Jun High Jul High Jul High Jul High C Jul Low C Aug C Aug C Aug Med C Aug C Sep Low C Sep Low C Sep Low C Sep C Sep C Oct 08 N/A Low C Oct Low C Oct Low C Oct C Nov C Nov C Nov C Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 24, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

21 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Brudenell River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) May May May Jun Jun Med Jun High Jun High Jul High Tunicate Larvae Jul High C Jul High C Jul High C / 1S Jul High C / 2S Aug C Aug Low C / 2S Aug C / 1S Sep Low C / 1S Sep Low C / 3S Sep Low C / 3S Sep Low C / 2S Sep Low C / 2S Oct C/ 1S Oct Low C Oct Low C Oct C Nov C Nov Nov Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 24, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

22 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Cardigan River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) May May May Jun Jun Low Jun Med Jun Low Jul Med Tunicate Larvae Jul High C Jul High C Jul Low C Aug Aug C Aug Med C Aug Sep Med C Sep Med C Sep Low C Sep Med C Sep Low ,700 3C Oct 08 N/A Low C Oct Low C Oct Low C Oct ,300 5C Nov ,900 2C Nov Nov C Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately Jul 03, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

23 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Chichester Cove Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med Jun Med Jun High Jun High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 23,

24 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Covehead Bay Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae May May May Jun Med Jun High Jun High Jun Med Jul High Jul High Jul Med Jul Med Sep Low Sep Sep Low Sep Low Sep Low Oct Low Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 23,

25 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Darnley Basin Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) May May Jun High Jun High Jun High S Jul High S Jul Med S Tunicate Larvae Jul Med S Jul Med S Aug S Aug S Aug Low S Aug S Sep Low S Sep Low Sep Low S Sep Oct ,200 2S Oct S Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately Jun 25, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

26 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Pre-set Fox Island Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Low Jun Med Jun High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 25, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) French River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunictae Larvae Jun Low Jun Med Jun Med Jun High Jul Med The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 19, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Grand River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med Jun Med Jun Med The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 30,

27 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Hope River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun High Jun High Jun High Jul High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 18, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Hunter River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med Jun Med Jul High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately July 04, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Kildare River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Jun Jun Low The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. No setting larvae were observed during this period

28 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Lennox Channel Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) May May May Low Jun Med Jun High Jun High S Jul High S Jul High S Jul Med S Jul Med S Tunicate Larvae Aug S Aug S Aug S Sep Low S Sep Low ,900 0 Sep Low ,100 2S Sep ,400 0 Oct Low ,000 1S Oct ,900 0 Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov ,800 0 Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 25, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

29 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) March Water Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Jun Jun Jun S Jun Jul S Jul S Jul S Jul S Aug Aug S Tunicate Larvae Aug S Aug S Sep S Sep S Sep S Sep Oct S Oct S Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

30 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Pre-set Mill River Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Low Jun Med Jun High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 25, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Pre-set Montrose Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Low Jun Jun Low The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. No setting larvae were observed during this period

31 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Murray River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) May May May Jun Low Jun High Jun High Jun High Jul High Tunicate Larvae Jul High C / 2S Jul High C Jul Med C / 1S Jul Med C / 8S Aug S Aug C / 5S Aug Low C / 2S Aug C / 1S Sep Low C / 5S Sep C / 7S Sep C / 2S Sep Low C / 3S Sep C / 3S Oct C Oct C Oct 28 N/A Nov Nov C Nov ,500 0 Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 24, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

32 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) New London Bay Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae May May May Jun Med Jun High Jun Med Jun High Jul High Jul Med Sep Low Sep Sep , Oct Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 25,

33 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Nine Mile Creek Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med Jun High Jun Med Jul High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 20, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) North Lake Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med Jun Med Jun Med Jul High Jul High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately Jul 11, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Pre-set Orwell Bay Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun High Jun High Jun High Jul High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 20,

34 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Rustico Bay Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae May May May Jun High Jun High Jun Med Jun Med Jul High Jul Med Sep Low Sep Low Sep Low Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 25,

35 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Savage Harbour Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) May May May Jun Jun High Jun High Jun Med Jul Med Jul High Jul Med Jul Low Sep Low Sep Med Sep Low Sep Low Oct Oct Oct Oct Low Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately July 02, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet Tunicate Larvae

36 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Souris River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Jun Low Jun Low Jul Low Jul Med The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately Jul 07, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Southwest River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med Jun Med Jun High Jun High Jul Med The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 19, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Stanley River Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med Jun High Jun High Jun High Jul High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 19,

37 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) St. Mary s Bay Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) May May May Jun Jun High Jun High Tunicate Larvae Jul High C / 2S Jul Med C Jul High C Jul High C / 3S Jul High C / 2S Aug C / 7S Aug Low C / 6S Aug C Sep Low C / 1S Sep Low C / 4S Sep Low C / 4S Sep Low C / 4S Sep Low C / 2S Oct C Oct Low C Oct C Nov Nov Nov Dec ,200 0 The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 24, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

38 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) St. Peter s Bay Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae May May May Jun Low Jun High Jun High Jun High Jul High Jul Med Jul Low Sep Low Sep Low Sep Low Sep Low Oct Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 23, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

39 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Tracadie Bay Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae May May May Jun Low Jun High Jun Med Jun High Jul Med Jul Med Jul Low Sep Low Sep Sep Low Sep Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov Nov Nov Nov Dec The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 23, C= Ciona S=Styela GS=Goldenstar V=Violet

40 Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Webber Cove Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med Jun Med Jun High Jun High The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 23, Date Water Temp Mussel larvae Size (microns) Winter Bay Pre-set Set-size Steamed European #Pseudonitzschia (cells/l) Tunicate Larvae Jun Med June High Jun High Jun High Jul High Jul High Jul Med The setting of mussel larvae occurs when they reach a size of at least 250 microns. Setting started in this area approximately June 23,

41 APPENDIX II Maps of Sample Sites

42 OB-7330-L OB-7273-L BOT-7256-L BOT-6599-L BOT-7482-L BOT-5420-L OB-7319-L OB-6968-L SPAT-0183B SPAT-0184B SEED-0564 OB-2934-L OB-3216-L SPAT-0183A SEED-0563 Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SEED-0519 BOT L SUR-0530-L Baltic River Mussel Monitoring Site BOT L SPAT SUR-0650-L SUR-0637-L BOT L BOT L BOT L BOT L OB-6907-L OB-7585-L BOT L SPAT SPAT SUR-0720-L OB-7010-L SPAT SPAT SUR-0712-L SUR-0729-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Sites SPAT SPAT SUR-0645-L BOT L SPAT -0180A SPAT -0180B SPAT SPAT BOT L SPAT SPAT BOT L SPAT Bentick Cove, Webber Cove and Chichester Cove Mussel Monitoring Sites

43 SPAT-0398 BOT-7483-L OB-7557-L SEED-0418 OB-7640-L SUR-0461-L SUR-0539-L SUR-0754-L SUR-0582-L SUR-0755-L SUR-0072-L SUR-0522-L SUR-0165-L BOT-7760-L BOT-7761-L BOT-7722-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site Boughton River Mussel Monitoring Site BOT-7763-L SUR-0707-L SUR-0464-L SUR-0048-L BOT-7572-L SUR-0762-L SUR-0052-L SUR-0278-L SUR-0696-L SUR-0697-L SUR-0636-L SUR-0656-L SUR-0731-L SUR-0698-L SUR-0080-L SUR-0590-L SUR-0732-L SUR-0532-L SUR-0710-L SPAT-0393 SUR-0100-L SUR-0738-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0728-L Brudenell River Mussel Monitoring Site

44 SUR-0117B-L SUR-0117A-L SUR-0242-L SUR-0121-L OB-7479-L OB-7480-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0706-L SUR-0621-L SUR-0632-L SUR-0671-L SUR-0640-L BOT-7763-L SUR-0707-L SUR-0464-L Cardigan River Mussel Monitoring Site BOT-7510-L BOT-7511-L BOT-7723-L BOT-7514-L BOT-7642-L SUR-0554-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0638-L Covehead Bay Mussel Monitoring Site

45 BOT-6664-L SUR-0523-L BOT-6732-L BOT-7556-L SUR-0524-L SUR-0624-L BOT-6657-L BOT-7748-L OB-7538-L OB-7405-L BOT-7035-L BOT-2350-L SUR-0625-L SUR-0675-L SUR-0591-L BOT-6407-L SUR-0596-L SUR-0595-L SUR-0589-L BOT-7070-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site BOT-7250-L SUR-0592-L OB-7272-L SUR-0616-L SUR-0594-L OB-7264-L BOT-7207-L OB-7330-L OB-7273-L BOT-7256-L Darnley Basin Mussel Monitoring Site SEED-0375 Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SEED-0371 SEED-0031 SEED-0152 French River Mussel Monitoring Site

46 BOT L BOT L OB-6725-L OB-7385-L BOT L BOT L SPAT SPAT BOT L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site BOT L OB-6765-L BOT-7268-L BOT L BOT L Grand River Mussel Monitoring Site SUR-0503A-L BOT-4273-L BOT-7565-L BOT-7566-L OB-7565-L OB-7566-L BOT-7736-L BOT-7735-L OB-7567-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SPAT-0288 SPAT-0289 SEED-0523B SEED-0370 SEED-0523A BOT-6667-L Hope River Mussel Monitoring Site

47 SUR-0677-L BOT-6793-L SUR-0658-L SUR-0612-L SUR-0676-L SUR-0687-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0545-L SUR-0546-L SPAT-0321 Hunter River Mussel Monitoring Site SUR-0635-L SPAT Mussel Monitoring Sampling Sites SPAT SEED-0524 SPAT OB-7578-L BOT L BOT L Kildare River and Montrose Mussel Monitoring Sites BOT L BOT L

48 BOT-0025-L BOT-5858-L OB-7611-L BOT-6939-L BOT-7365-L OB-7316-L BOT-6685-L OB-7562-L OB-7548-L OB-6653-L OB-7318-L OB-7224-L BOT-7387-L BOT-7549-L BOT-7741-L SPAT-0213 BOT-7743-L BOT-5324-L BOT-7046-L OB-6555-L BOT-7403-L OB-6270-L BOT-7563-L BOT-7077-L BOT-6751-L BOT-6802-L BOT-7717-L BOT-7506-L BOT-7142-L BOT-4526-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site BOT-7056-L BOT-7377-L BOT-4418-L BOT-7078-L BOT-7389-L BOT-3333-L BOT-7703-L BOT-7550-L BOT-7364-L OB-7205-L SUR-0536-L SUR-0200-L SUR-0540-L Lennox Channel Mussel Monitoring Site Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0527-L SUR-0525-L SUR-0526-L SUR-0529-L BOT-7335-L BOT-7173-L BOT-7201-L BOT-7183-L SUR-0614-L SUR-0558-L OB-7141-L OB-7546-L SUR-0528-L BOT-7487-L SUR-0759-L BOT-7626-L BOT-7472-L SUR-0553-L SUR-0637-L BOT-7466-L BOT-7651-L BOT-7353-L SUR-0584-L SUR-0530-L SUR-0531-L BOT-7641-L BOT-6921-L BOT-6459-L BOT-6877-L BOT-7351-L SUR-0650-L BOT-7174-L March Water Mussel Monitoring Site

49 BOT L OB-7371-L OB-7631-L BOT L BOT L OB-7376-L BOT L OB-6986-L BOT L BOT L OB-7762-L OB-7196-L BOT L SPAT SPAT BOT L BOT L OB-7271-L SPAT BOT L OB-6914-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Sites BOT LBOT L BOT L OB-2861-L OB-7777-L BOT L BOT L BOT L SUR-0690-L BOT L BOT L SUR-0694-L Mill River and Fox Island Mussel Monitoring Sites OB-6841-L SUR-0145-L SEED-0269 SUR-0151-L SUR-0302-L SUR-0753-L SUR-0520-L OB-7574-L SUR-0129-L BOT-5763-L SUR-0152-L SUR-0685-L BOT-7573-L SUR-0704-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0158-L SUR-0581-L SUR-0684-L SUR-0757-L OB-5448-L BOT-5422-L SUR-0171-L BOT-5293-L SPAT-0408 SPAT-0312 Murray River Mussel Monitoring Site

50 SUR-0503B-L BOT-7259-L OB-7569-L SUR-0510-L SUR-0509-L SUR-0508-L SUR-0507-L SUR-0758-L SUR-0506-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site BOT-7268-L BOT-7522-L SUR-0337-L BOT-7633-L SUR-0504-L SUR-0505-L BOT-7075-L BOT-6668-L SUR-0682-L SUR-0517-L SUR-0503A-L BOT-7577-L BOT-7565-L OB-7565-L OB-7566-L OB-7567-L SPAT-0288 Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SPAT-0289 SEED-0370 New London Mussel Monitoring Sites SEED-0523A SUR-0725-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0727-L SUR-0717-L SUR-0746-L SUR-0723-L SUR-0743-L SUR-0726-L SUR-0713-L SUR-0763-L SUR-0736-L SUR-0715-L BOT-7645-L BOT-7647-L BOT-7604-L SPAT-0366 BOT-7701-L BOT-7724-L Nine Mile Creek Mussel Monitoring Site

51 Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0721-L SUR-0722-L SUR-0718-L North Lake Mussel Monitoring Site BOT-7469-L BOT-4475-L BOT-7465-L BOT-6711-L BOT-7186-L BOT-7293-L BOT-7495-L BOT-3948-L OB-7489-L BOT-7493-L BOT-7322-L SUR-0699-L SUR-0769-L SUR-0646-L SUR-0768-L SUR-0767-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site Orwell Bay Mussel Monitoring Site

52 BOT-7524-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0550-L BOT-7570-L SUR-0549-L SUR-0551-L SUR-0547-L SUR-0695-L SUR-0552-L SUR-0689-L SUR-0548-L SUR-0674-L SUR-0634-L Rustico Bay Mussel Monitoring Site Bot-7603-L BOT-7683-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site BOT-7464-L SUR-0631-L SUR-0604-L SUR-0603-L SUR-0602-L BOT-7733-L SPAT-0234 BOT-4830-L SUR-0601-L SUR-0609-L SUR-0691-L SUR-0608-L SUR-0607-L SUR-0598-L SUR-0606-L SUR-0605-L OB-7270-L BOT-6054-L SUR-0660-L SUR-0678-L Savage Harbour Mussel Monitoring Site

53 SUR-0683-L SUR-0659-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site BOT L BOT L BOT L Souris River Mussel Monitoring Site OB-7413-L OB-7569-L SUR-0337-L BOT-7633-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0221-L BOT-7755-L BOT-7075-L SUR-0268-L BOT-7541-L SUR-0716-L BOT-6668-L OB-7305-L SPAT-0277 SUR-0682-L BOT-7630-L BOT-7542-L BOT-3122-L BOT-7681-L BOT-7537-L SUR-0339-L BOT-6203-L BOT-6380-L BOT-4161-L OB-7434-L BOT-4737-L Southwest River Mussel Monitoring Site

54 BOT-5264-L BOT-5686-L BOT-6667-L BOT-6579-L BOT-6201-L BOT-6718-L SUR-0583-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SEED-0257 Stanley River Mussel Monitoring Site SUR-0711-L SUR-0739-L BOT-7543-L BOT-7699-L SUR-0705-L BOT-7545-L BOT-7752-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0064-L SUR-0709-L SUR-0644-L SUR-0618-L SUR-0619-L SUR-0643-L SUR-0450-L SUR-0770-L SUR-0008-L SUR-0741-L SUR-0579-L SUR-0641-L BOT-7544-L BOT-7737-L BOT-7680-L St. Mary s Bay Mussel Monitoring Site

55 SUR-0680-L SUR-0193-L SUR-0585-L SUR-0538-L SUR-0521A-L SUR-0535-L SUR-0310-L OB-7424-L SUR-0533-L SUR-0663-L SUR-0188-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Site SUR-0700-L SUR-0214-L SUR-0702-L SUR-0630-L SUR-0120-L SUR-0147-L SUR-0183-L SUR-0174-L SEED-0172 St. Peter s Bay Mussel Monitoring Site SUR-0563-L SUR-0662-L SUR-0385-L BOT-7552-L BOT-4815-L BOT-7536-L SUR-0500-L SUR-0537-L SUR-0334-L SUR-0279-L SUR-0670-L SUR-0543-L SUR-0384-L BOT-7048-L SUR-0708-L SUR-0055-L SUR-0574-L SUR-0564-L BOT-6973-L SUR-0541-L SUR-0760-L SUR-0655-L SUR-0693-L BOT-7581-L SUR-0136A-L BOT-7050B-L Mussel Monitoring Sampling Sites Mussel Monitoring Sampling Sites SUR-0692-L OB-7580-L SUR-0733-L Tracadie Bay and Winter Bay Mussel Monitoring Sites

56 APPENDIX III Water Temperature Graphs for Sample Sites

57 Temperature data collected at Boughton River Mussel Monitoring Station Temperature data collected at Brudenell River Mussel Monitoring Station

58 Temperature data collected at Covehead Bay Mussel Monitoring Station Temperature data collected at Darnley Basin Mussel Monitoring Station

59 Temperature data collected at New London Bay Mussel Monitoring Station Temperature data collected at Rustico Bay Mussel Monitoring station

60 Temperature data collected at Savage Harbour Mussel Monitoring Station Temperature data collected at St. Mary s Bay Mussel Monitoring Station

61 Temperature data collected at St. Peter s Bay Mussel Monitoring Station Temperature data collected at Tracadie Bay Mussel Monitoring Station

62 All temperature data collected (using VEMCO temperature recorders) at Mussel Monitoring Stations in

63 APPENDIX IV Mussel Steamed Information

64 Comparison of average steamed meat yields from mussels collected from 14 Mussel Monitoring Sites in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, Area Boughton River Brudenell River Cardigan River Covehead Bay Darnley Basin Lennox Channel March Water Murray River New London Bay Rustico Bay Savage Harbour St. Mary s Bay St. Peter s Bay Tracadie Bay

65 Comparison of average meat weight from mussels collected from 14 Mussel Monitoring Sites in Area Maximum (g) Minimum (g) Average (g) Boughton River Brudenell River Cardigan River Covehead Bay Darnley Basin Lennox Channel March Water Murray River New London Bay Rustico Bay Savage Harbour St. Mary s Bay St. Peter s Bay Tracadie Bay

66 Average monthly meat yield in Boughton River Average monthly meat yield in Brudenell River

67 Average monthly meat yield in Cardigan River Average monthly meat yield in Covehead Bay

68 Average monthly meat yield in Darnley Basin Average monthly meat yield in Lennox Channel

69 Average monthly meat yield in March Water Average monthly meat yield in Murray River

70 Average monthly meat yield in New London Bay Average monthly meat yield in Rustico Bay

71 Average monthly meat yield in Savage Harbour Average monthly meat yield in St. Mary s Bay

72 Average monthly meat yield in St. Peter s Bay Average monthly meat yield in Tracadie Bay

73 Comparison of average monthly European s () in

74 APPENDIX V Maps Displaying Current Known Range of Invasive Tunicates in PEI

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