Eastern oyster growth model calibrated for Long Island Sound
This is a one box model for an idealized farm with one million oysters seeded (one hectare @ a stocking density of 100 oysters per square meter)
1. Run WinShell individual growth model for one year with Long Island Sound growth drivers;
2. Determine the scope for growth (in dry tissue weight per day) for oysters centered on the five weight classes)
3. Apply a classic population dynamics equation:
dn(s,t)/dt = -d[n(s,t)g(s,t)]/ds - u(s)n(s,t)
s: Weight (g)
t: Time
n: Number of individuals of weight s
g: Scope for growth (g day-1)
u: Mortality rate (day-1)
4. Set mortality at 30% per year, slider allows scenarios from 30% to 80% per year
5. Determine harvestable biomass, i.e. weight class 5, 40-50 g (roughly three inches length)