Polytechnic University of Valencia

The research team emerged from the coordination of two groups from two scientific institutions based in the Valencian Community. These are the Mollusk Biology and Culture Group of the Torre de la Sal Aquaculture Institute (CSIC) and the Coastal Oceanography Laboratory of the Research Institute for Integrated Coastal Zone Management (IGIC-UPV).
The Mollusc Biology and Culture group will contribute with molecular tools for PCR, qPCR, DNA sequencing, microsatellite genotyping, and SNPs. It will also contribute to the captive breeding of clams, as the IATS has bivalve hatchery facilities (filtered and sterilized seawater, hatchery and nursery systems) and continuous microalgae production. The Coastal Oceanography Laboratory will provide field work to obtain samples that allow the detection, identification, and quantification of larvae in the water column and postlarvae on the seabed throughout an annual cycle. It will also conduct censuses of adult tellina and clam populations, as well as environmental characterization and use of the LMS (lysosomal membrane stability) biomarker.