Biofouling reduction by lantern nets exchange and its relationship with production and survival of <i>Argopecten purpuratus</i> in Samanco Bay, Peru

Abstract The aquaculture of Argopecten purpuratus (Peruvian scallop) is a profitable activity with positive impacts on the local economy. However, the development of biofouling on the culture lantern nets generates negative environmental impacts that affect its sustainability. A feasible option aimed at reducing the development of biofouling is to increase the frequency of lantern nets exchange. In this study, we tested whether doubling the lantern net exchange frequency in the final phase of culture reduces biofouling and, in turn, improves the growth and survival of A . purpuratus . For this purpose, in the concession of a company dedicated to the cultivation of A . purpuratus in Samanco Bay, Peru, four 10‐floor lantern nets were placed at 25 organisms per floor, divided into two treatments (T1 and T2) with two replicates. One group of these (T1) was exchanged after 30 days, and another group (T2) was maintained until harvest. As a result of the lantern nets exchange, biofouling weight was reduced by 64.6%, survival improved by 10.8%, gonad weight increased by 52.5%, and adductor muscle weight increased by 62.4%, which represents an additional net income of 6582.58 US$ per ha. This study demonstrates the significant benefits of regular lantern net exchanges in mitigating biofouling and enhancing the overall yield and economic viability of A . purpuratus culture, contributing to the advancement of more sustainable aquaculture practices.