Stanley, Jon G. and Sellers, Mark A.2010-02-152010-02-151986http://hdl.handle.net/1969.3/2042433 pgs.Species profiles are literature summaries of the taxonomy, morphology, life history, and environmental requirements of coastal aquatic species. They are designed to assist in environmental impact assessment. The American oyster, Crassostrea virginica, is an important commercial species. Spawning occurs repeatedly during warmer months with millions of eggs released. Embryos and larvae are carried by currents throughout the estuaries and oceanic bays where they occur. The surviving larvae cement themselves to a solid object, where they remain for the remainder of life. Unable to move, they must tolerate changes in the environment that range from -2 to 36 degrees Celsius (air temperature), 2 to 40 ppt salinity, and clear or muddy water. The density and occurrence of adults is limited by predators, chiefly oyster drills, whelks, fish, and crabs.oystersCrassostrea virginicalife historyestuariesspawningenvironmental factorssalinityamerican oystercoastal ecologyBook