Evaluation of a new tagging technique for monitoring restoration success

Venerid dams, Austrovenus stutchburyi, were tagged with small aluminum discs, enabling relocation using a metal detector. Tag loss varied between treatment types, being highest for small, densely packed clams. Over three sites the mean tag loss across all treatments was 10% (± 2.87) after 7 months. This is likely to be an overestimate as only a subsample of individuals was recaptured. Laboratory studies showed no significant difference in survival, growth, or condition between tagged and untagged clams. Ability to rebury was not affected by tags; all tagged and untagged individuals burrowed within 24 h of being placed in tanks. The technique was also found effective for a deeper burrowing tellinid bivalve. The extensive movement of four whelk species made relocation difficult, but the technique still holds potential for the tag and recapture of these gastropods. Studies previously considered difficult are feasible with this technique.