Keywords
Polititapes aureus
stock assessment
distribution
size structure
South Tunisia
How to Cite
Abstract
The clam Polititapes aureus is one of the most abundant shellfish species in southern Tunisian waters. Its potential future commercial value is key resource for artisanal fisheries. This study was conducted to assess stocks and develop a management plan for natural clam populations along the Sfax coast. The results revealed significant density fluctuations across the study area, which was divided into six main sites, with stock density ranging from 0 to 6 ind.m⁻² and biomass values varying between 0 and 41 g.m⁻². Total biomass reached 70.1 tons, with an abundance exceeding 16.58 million individuals across 3,867 hectares. Sampled individuals measured between 3 and 32.9 mm in size. Key environmental factors were identified, with several abiotic parameters found to have a significant impact on the distribution of clam species. Conservation guidelines are proposed to restore its stocks to sustainable levels.
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