A Preliminary Analysis of Oyster Settlement on a Restored Oyster Reef

Oyster reefs are important elements in estuarine ecosystems.  These structures provide various functions for the environment, such as improving water quality, providing habitat for estuarine fauna and aiding in the prevention of the erosion of salt marsh habitats.  Oysters are also commercially harvested, and are important economically.  These habitats, however, are one of the most threatened, and are declining at an alarming rate.  Oyster diseases and destructive harvesting techniques are contributing to oyster reef degradation.  Restoration projects are being implemented around the world. A restored reef is deemed successful if it supplies the ecosystem with the same benefits as a natural reef supplies.  Oyster larvae (spat) settlement, oyster size, fauna recruitment and water quality are all quantified and measured.  For this study, a preliminary comparison of spat settlement will be made between natural and restored reefs.  In July 2011, crushed concrete and reclaimed oyster shells were used in the restoration of reef habitat in Copano Bay near Rockport, TX.  Six sites each were chosen on restored reef substrate (reclaimed oyster shells) and natural reef substrate (live oysters).  In August 2011, 48 baker trays lined with aquaculture mesh and the specified substrate were set out within each habitat type.  Six trays from each site will be retrieved quarterly for 2 years.  The first samples were collected January 30, 2012.  The ultimate goal will be to determine the extent to which the restored reef is able to mimic the function of natural reefs as habitat for fishes and invertebrates.