RECOVER MAP 3.3.3.6 Oyster Monitoring Network East Coast

The primary objective of this effort is to implement a long-term monitoring program for Crassostrea virginica in southeast and southwest Florida. Five aspects of oyster ecology are being monitored; condition (as measured by condition index), spatial and size distribution patterns of adult oysters, distribution and frequency patterns of the oyster diseases Perkinsus marinus (dermo) and (on the east coast only) Haplosporidium nelsoni (MSX), reproduction and recruitment, and juvenile oyster growth and survival.

A baseline for oysters in each estuary is being established by mapping the existing distribution of reefs/beds, and density of living oysters (per square meter). Historical distributions, where available are being used to assist in identifying areas which may have suitable habitat conditions for reestablishment, given predictive changes in the salinity regime. At five year intervals during CERP implementation, a map of the area including size distribution, density of living oysters, and height of the oyster reef, whenever possible, will be prepared.