Discrimination and abundance estimation of wild and released abalone Haliotis diversicolor using stable carbon and oxygen isotope analysis in north-eastern Taiwan

The discrimination between wild and released Taiwan abalone Haliotis diversicolor was performed by stable carbon isotope analysis. Abalone samples were collected from Mao Aw Gulf in north-eastern Taiwan. Live abalone and dead shells were collected by divers with an 80 × 80 cm frame. The densities and amounts of wild and released abalone, as well as the survival rates of released abalone, in 1997 and 1998 were estimated. The age of the specimens was also determined from the specific temperature of each month and the inverse relationship between oxygen isotope values and temperatures. Results show that examining stable isotopic profiles proves to be a practical and feasible method for stock discrimination as well as density and abundance estimation. These data would be helpful in assessing the success of abalone culture and release programs, which aim to enhance this valuable marine resource.