3.2. Depuration efficacy
Statistics were run following rank transformation of MPN/g as
the response variable to meet the assumptions of the statistical
tests, but original MPN/g values are used in the graphs. Efficacy of
V. vulnificus elimination from oysters during depuration was
significantly affected by salinity (Fig. 2). Low salinity (15 psu) was
statistically less efficient in reducing V. vulnificus numbers than 25
and 35 psu. No significant difference between 25 and 35 psu
treatments was found. Oysters remained in the depuration system
for 14 days but significant reduction in V. vulnificus numbers
occurred as early as day 3 (Fig. 3). No significant reduction was seen
between day 3 and day 6 but V. vulnificus numbers continued to fall