Why this work?

The Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) is a keystone species in northeast Florida estuaries, including at the Guana Tolomato Matanzas Research Reserve. In addition to providing important ecosystem services, such as water filtration and shoreline protection, the oyster supports a valuable recreational and commercial fishery. However, scientists, managers, and oyster harvesters are concerned about the long-term persistence and viability of local populations. In the Guana Tolomato Matanzas Reserve, water quality issues are causing some areas to be closed for harvesting, which could be intensifying harvesting pressure in remaining open areas. Other factors, such as predation, disease, and increased salinity, can also slow growth or kill oysters. This complicated situation recently led stakeholders and reserve staff to establish the Guana Tolomato Matanzas Oyster Water Quality Task Force in order to identify causes and collaboratively address the region’s oyster challenges.

About this project

This project builds on this existing partnership by conducting a collaborative scientific modeling investigation to improve oyster population assessment and management. Incorporating the input of end users and local stakeholders, the project is adapting an existing oyster population model to study the relative influence of anthropogenic and environmental factors on oyster populations and identify variables that should be monitored to assess long-term sustainability.

Project lead and contact

J. Wilson White, Oregon State University, [email protected]

To learn more, view the project factsheet (PDF).