February 15-18, 2009 Washington State Convention Center Seattle ...

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SPOT Leiostomus xanthurus PRODUCTION ON EASTERN SHORE VIRGINIA FOR
MID-ATLANTIC BAITFISH MARKETS
Michael H. Schwarz*, Josh Reitsma, Brendan C. Delbos and Clarke Morton
Virginia Seafood Agricultural Research and Extension Center
102 South King Street
Hampton, VA 23669 USA
mschwarz@vt.edu
SKYPE: michaelhschwarz
Spot (Leiostomus xanthurus) are a highly desired baitfish in the Mid-Atlantic for a multitude of angling species including
striped bass, flounder, weakfish, and tuna. While wild-caught spot compete with aquacultured fish in the bait markets during
warmer months, winter fishing for stripers coincides with a lack of wild spot availability. This presents a unique production and
marketing opportunity for baitfish aquaculture of this species.
Biological and technical advancements towards culture of this species date back to the late 1970’s. In recent years, concerted
efforts by NOAA and Sea Grant accelerated research into marine baitfish production, culminating in VSG-05-08, A Virginia
Sea Grant publication entitled “Production of Spot as Live Bait for Recreational Angling.” These early efforts, in conjunction
with ongoing support from Virginia Sea Grant and Virginia Cooperative Extension assisted Mid-Atlantic Aquaculture
Technology in development of its spot production program for the baitfish market. This presentation will review development
of Mid-Atlantic Aquaculture Technology’s spot production program, production protocols for this species, and discuss market
development.