Maximizing the benefits of oyster reef restoration for finfish and their fisheries

Ben Gilby; Andrew D Olds; Charles H Peterson; Rod M Connolly; Christine M Voss; Melanie J Bishop; Michael Elliott; Jonathan H Grabowski; Nicholas L Ortodossi; Thomas Schlacher

doi:10.1111/faf.12301

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Maximizing the benefits of oyster reef restoration for finfish and their fisheries

Journal article

Peer reviewed

Maximizing the benefits of oyster reef restoration for finfish and their fisheries

Ben Gilby, Andrew D Olds, Charles H Peterson, Rod M Connolly, Christine M Voss, Melanie J Bishop, Michael Elliott, Jonathan H Grabowski, Nicholas L Ortodossi and Thomas Schlacher

Fish and Fisheries, Vol.19(5), pp.931-947

2018

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/faf.12301

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Abstract

coastal management

habitat complexity

restoration

seascape

shellfish

Global declines in oyster reefs have resulted in reduced habitat heterogeneity, extent and quality for some coastal finfish, potentially reducing fish populations and catches. It is well established that habitat restoration results in higher finfish biomass and diversity where oyster reefs replace bare substrata. Therefore, restoring oyster reefs with a view to also improving fish stocks is often a key goal of oyster restoration. However, the principles of habitat quality, ecological connectivity and broader ecosystem management are poorly integrated within oyster reef restoration ecology, but such principles may be instructive in enhancing the benefits of projects on fish populations throughout estuarine seascapes. This manuscript presents a framework for projects seeking to restore both oyster reef habitat and finfish communities. Structurally and biologically complex oyster reefs, comprising both oysters and other invertebrates, are required to provide shelter, food and nursery services to fish. By carefully considering site selection at seascape scales (km to 10s of km), restoration can enhance the network of habitat available to fish and potentially increase the overall carrying capacity of the estuary. Managers of estuaries that now include restored oyster reefs should implement fisheries management plans and consider the effects of management actions broadly throughout catchments; failing to do so may jeopardize gains in fish yields. Management decisions must be adaptable, responding to key criteria in thorough monitoring programs. Integrating these ecological and coastal management concepts into oyster reef restoration will enhance outcomes for fishes and increase stakeholder engagement and cost-effectiveness.

Details

Title: Maximizing the benefits of oyster reef restoration for finfish and their fisheries
Authors: Ben Gilby (Corresponding Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast
Andrew D Olds (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast
Charles H Peterson (Author) - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Rod M Connolly (Author) - Griffith University
Christine M Voss (Author) - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Melanie J Bishop (Author) - Macquarie University
Michael Elliott (Author) - University of Hull
Jonathan H Grabowski (Author) - Northeastern University
Nicholas L Ortodossi (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast
Thomas Schlacher (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast
Publication details: Fish and Fisheries, Vol.19(5), pp.931-947
Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Date published: 2018
DOI: 10.1111/faf.12301
ISSN: 1467-2960; 1467-2960
Organisation Unit: School of Science and Engineering - Legacy; School of Science, Technology and Engineering
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99450726902621
Output Type: Journal article

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Collaboration types: Domestic collaboration; International collaboration
Web Of Science research areas: Fisheries

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