ABSI Research Initiatives
Research conducted by ABSI and partners includes rigorous field components, analytical studies in the lab, and field and laboratory experiments. The data from these different components are used in models to help forecast how oysters are likely to respond to a suite of different environmental and management conditions.
Collapse of oyster reef systems is a global phenomenon, with less than 20% of the world’s reefs remaining. The causes are complex, and include interactions of poor coastal management, over-harvesting, habitat destruction, and declined water quality. Before we can generate effective restoration and management plans, we have to understand what went wrong, and try to address the underlying problem.
Ecosystem recovery is limited by nature’s ability to rebuild. Depending on the system, it may take decades. While oysters grow quickly, the massive reefs that they form develop slowly. Because oyster reef ecosystems provide valuable ecological and economic services, we need to protect and care for them so they can continue to provide these services far into the future. If not, we risk losing them forever.
Successful ecosystem recovery requires a deep understanding of the causes of collapse. This is accomplished with extensive research and monitoring, and a long term plan that includes adaptive management and habitat restoration. ABSI data will be made available to the public, and through a collaborative process, an oyster management and ecosystem recovery plan will be developed.
