![]() ![]() In some areas, there is a wild fishery for oysters as well. Farmed oysters, clams, and mussels account for about two-thirds of total U.S. Oyster cultivation and harvest provide significant economic value to regional coastal communities. Depending on where the reefs are located, they may also be able to reduce wave energy, prevent erosion, and fortify wetlands as a protective barrier. Healthy reefs and established vegetation protect valuable habitat. Well-established eelgrass beds help stabilize the bottom, providing additional resilience against wave action. In some locations, oyster reefs can protect underwater vegetation and waterfront communities from some effects of waves, floods, and tides. The clearer, cleaner water can support plentiful underwater grasses, which-like the oyster reef-create a stable bottom and a safe, nurturing habitat for juvenile crabs, scallops, and fish. Under certain conditions, a single oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day. Because oysters feed by filtering algae from the water, they function as a natural filter and improve water overloaded with nutrients. Water Qualityīesides being seafood, oysters make waters healthier. Many of the species that spend time around oyster reefs are recreationally and commercially valuable. Oyster reefs are also a great place for smaller forage species to live. The structure that oyster reefs create provide crevices that fish and crabs use to hide from predators. Benefits of Oyster Reef Habitat Habitat for Other Species We work with partners to restore native oysters and regain the critical ecosystem functions they provide across the United States. NOAA has identified oyster reef restoration as a conservation priority. When they are restored and managed as a sustainable resource, oyster reefs and the habitat they provide can contribute billions of dollars in value to the economy. When oyster reefs are only used as a place to harvest commercial oyster meat, they can become degraded. Ongoing threats to oysters mean that, unless deliberate efforts are made to protect and restore them, we are in danger of losing the benefits oyster reefs provide. In some places, oyster reefs can serve as barriers to storms and tides, preventing erosion and protecting productive estuary waters. These animals filter and clean the surrounding water and provide habitat, food, and jobs. Oysters are a crucial component of global ocean health. They also provide a safe nursery for commercially valuable species including: Oyster reefs provide habitat to forage fish, invertebrates, and other shellfish. Organisms like mussels, barnacles, and sea anemones settle on them, creating abundant food sources for commercially valuable fish. Oyster reefs create important habitat for hundreds of species. As the reef takes shape, it becomes an excellent shelter for other sea life. Rocks, old shells, wrecks, and piers accumulate oysters that grow together, shell upon shell. Before long, they settle down and attach to a solid surface where they will grow for the rest of their lives. Oysters begin life as free-floating larvae-tiny, swimming creatures.
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