Survey of Oyster Reef Populations in San Antonio and Espiritu Santo Bays - Oyster and Fisheries Investigations of Area M-5

Abstract

The oyster studies of Area M-5 for the past year have shown a rapid decline in the oyster population. Floods starting in October 1960 killed many of the oysters in San Antonio Bay. Along with the floods, a high incidence of D. marinum infection contributed to the decline in oyster population of San Antonio Bay. Espiritu Santo Bay was not adversely affected by either the floods or D. marinum, but the increased fishing pressure depleted this bay considerably. Recommendations were made for the approaching season to remove one month from the start of the season and one month from the last of the season. A large spat set early this summer was completely killed by floods north of the Intracoastal Waterway in San Antonio Bay. Most of the large oysters in this same area were also killed. Flood control is definitely needed in this area, along with increased circulation with the Gulf of Mexico.

Description

8 pages; available for download at the link below.

Keywords

Perkinsus marinus, democystidium marinus, Espiritu Santo Bay, San Antonio Bay, oyster stock assessment, stock assessment

Citation