Seasonal changes in the biochemical composition of wedge clam, Donax scortum from the Padukere beach, Karnataka

Abstract

Seasonal variations in protein, lipid and carbohydrate along with dry tissue weight and water in Donax scortum were studied for a period of 12 months (from February 2009 to January 2010). Water content remained at high level during monsoon and post monsoon periods. Dry tissue weight parentage exhibited an inverse relationship with water content in all months in the present study. Protein content was high relatively in all months except low during the breeding months. Glycogen content during the maturation period declined showing the utilization active gamete production. Fat content increased during the period of active formation of gametes. Afterwards, it decreased during the spawning period. Ash content in our present study shows similar seasonal pattern in percentages of lipids and proteins. However, changes in carbohydrate percentage show a completely different resulting in an inverse relationship between carbohydrate and protein. Calorific values of D. scortum are well within the known limits reported in the literatures for other bivalves.