Results of Galveston Bay oyster growth and recruitment models

Recent modeling efforts have generated possible future trends in oyster growth and recruitment for reefs located in Galveston Bay, Texas. The trends result from expected changes in amount and location of freshwater input into the Bay expected with future population growth and hence water usage. Possibly large changes may occur due to the ongoing transfer of water from the Trinity to the San Jacinto basin. Other factors in changing oyster population dynamics include changes in food supply, water circulation, salinity, turbidity, and temperature caused by recent navigation projects, water quality improvements, and subsidence.