Summary of our knowledge of the oyster in the Gulf of Mexico

The biology of the American oyster (Crassostrea virginica) in the Gulf of Mexico is reviewed, with an emphasis on the biological and economic problems facing the Gulf oyster industry. Ecological factors determining the nature of oyster communities and reefs are outlined, including salinity, substrate and temperature. Life history information, such as reproduction, growth, commercialism, parasitism and predation is also considered, as is man's impact through over-harvesting, pollution and development. Three other species of oysters occurring in the Gulf are briefly mentioned.