Oysters

Oysters were once the main

organism harvested from

the bay.

Oysters

Millions of pounds were

harvested every year.

Oysters

As recently as 100 years ago oyster

reefs were so massive that they posed a navigational

hazard to ships.

Oysters

Today, there is about one

percent of the original oyster population in

the bay.

Oysters

Oysters are filter feeders that

perform several vital functions in

the Bay’s ecosystem.

Oysters

Healthy oysters consume algae

and other nutrients in the

water. An oyster can filter up to

five liters of water a day.

Oysters

Oyster reefs provide solid structure for

sessile organisms to

attach.

Oysters

The reef provides homes and

hiding places for organisms like

worms and crabs.

Oysters

Reefs stabilize bottom

sediments for benthic

organisms and aquatic plants.

Oysters

Oyster reefs are so important

that many areas are rebuilding

them.

Oysters

Oysters will spawn as the

water warms in the spring.

Oysters spawn as males the

first year.

Oysters

As oyster get older and build up their energy reserves, they

spawn as females and

release eggs.

Oysters

Fertilized eggs develop into

larva which will eventually settle

and cement themselves to

the bottom.

Oysters

At this young stage, they are

known as spats.

Oysters often attach to other

oysters.