Abstract

The efhciency of tour culture systems for Argopecten purpuratus (LAMARCK . 1819), two traditional (lantern-nets and ear hanging} and two implemented for the first time in our country (patch system and bag system}, were compared in South Mejillones Bay , Chile. Efficiency was measured as increase of the scallop's adductor muscle weight. The largest increase was found in the patch system (308% in 130 days of culture). followed by ear hang1ng (232 %). The lantern-nets and bag system were not statistically different. with 168 and 163% respectively Considering the lost of organisms in the patch system and the fact that seeding is slow. the ear hanging is recommended for exploitatlün on an Industrial scale.