Publication Date
Fall 2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Moss Landing Marine Laboratories
Advisor
Amanda Kahn; Kerstin Wasson; Luke Gardner; Sarah Smith
Abstract
Conservation aquaculture is an emerging restoration strategy for depleted and low-density foundation species. It was recently applied for Olympia oysters in California. The only native oyster species is at risk of local extinction in much of its range. Conservation aquaculture can support oyster abundance, but long-term restoration success will be constrained by habitat conditions that suppress early growth and reproductive fitness. Following years of reproduction failure in Elkhorn Slough, CA, we examined these two critical life stages: juvenile and brooding. Our aim was to improve restoration by evaluating aquaculture methods and studying their physiology. We tested site parameters, oyster size, and substrate impacts on juvenile growth and survival in the estuary. The adults’ feeding and excretion were compared in the hatchery to examine a potential vulnerability to energy limitation during the brooding stage. All juveniles in this study reached adult sizes in less than 12 months. Outplanted oysters had higher initial growth and survival at a lower tidal elevation. Juveniles with more time in the hatchery and oysters in cages also had higher survival. Adult oysters in the hatchery alternated sex within a 60-day period. Feed intake did not change, but brooding oysters produced less pseudofeces and their feces had lower organic content. The brooding stage, therefore, used more energy and may indeed be more vulnerable to energy limitation compared to non-brooding stages.
Recommended Citation
Harris, Jacob, "Synthesizing Physiology With Aquaculture For Olympia Oyster Restoration In Elkhorn Slough, Ca" (2024). Master's Theses. 5592.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.31979/etd.uc4d-2z4f
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_theses/5592
