A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IN SITU SETTLEMENT AND RECRUITMENT OF SHELLFISH AND DEVELOPING REEF

摘要

A shellfish trap system and a method for developing a reef are provided. The shellfish trap system includes a growing assembly, a first protective layer, and a second protective layer. The growing assembly includes a material which is conducive for shellfish in the pediveliger larvae stage to attach to. The first protective layer substantially envelops at least a first portion of the growing assembly during a first developmental stage of the shellfish and is removed from the growing assembly after completion of the first developmental stage. The second protective layer substantially envelops at least a second portion of the growing assembly during a second developmental stage of the shellfish, wherein the at least a second portion of the growing assembly is submerged in water during the second developmental stage of the shellfish.