Article
Effect of repetitive dye extraction over yield and survival rate of the purple snail Plicopurpura Pansa(Gould, 1853)
Fecha
2000Autor
Michel-Morfin, J.E.
Chavezo, E.A.
Institución
Resumen
The purple snail is an important economic species because of the dye obtained from it in western Mexico. This dye has been used since ancient times to color ceremonial dresses purple. Other snails produce dye, but Plicopurpura pansa dye extraction was done without killing the snail. Repetitive dye extraction is possible. The best time between each milking, dye yield versus milking frequency, and effect on survival was determined by repetitive milking snail groups several times (7, 14, 21, and 28 days). Mortality in the most frequently milked groups and dye yield reduction occurred (every 7 and 14 days). When milking frequency occurred every 21 days, the best dye yield and 100% survival rate was observed. These results suggest wild populations can be exploited using optimum extraction schedules, leaving at least 21 days between each dye extraction.