Oyster reefs are essential marine ecosystems that produce food, improve water quality, and provide habitat for many species of fish and invertebrates. Due to overharvesting and degraded environmental conditions, oyster reefs have declined in number worldwide. Restoration of oyster reef habitat is a common conservation tactic to reverse this decline. However, many restoration projects have traditionally used plastic, which can be harmful by contributing to marine debris. A variety of alternative materials are available for restoration applications, but there is a lack of research on their effectiveness. In this proposed research, one laboratory experiment and two field experiments in Mosquito Lagoon, FL, will be used to examine the performance of currently available plastic alternative materials. Chapter one evaluates four non-plastic materials used to make oyster shell bags. A 12-month field experiment examines restoration unit 1) persistence, 2) sustained damage, and 3) oyster recruitment. In the laboratory, a 12-month experiment will use vacuum filtration and microscopy to quantify microparticle shedding from each material treatment. Chapter two evaluates two high-performing non-plastic shell bag materials and cement jute structures in a two-year field study. Restoration unit performance will be measured by quantifying 1) unit persistence, 2) sustained damage, 3) oyster recruitment, and 4) macrofaunal and macroalgal biodiversity. The results of this study will be shared with coastal restoration practitioners to help them make decisions on effective alternatives for plastics.
Cara Womacks
Dr. Linda Walters, Advisor
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