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Shellfish reef aquaculture: a perspective on the systematic cultivation of endangered biogenic habitats

Published Article

Global

Publication date: May 1, 2024

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Shellfish‑reef aquaculture is emerging as a tool for marine restoration. Drawing on historic oyster farming, it offers opportunities to overcome challenges in aquaculture–restoration efforts and may accelerate reef recovery and resilience in a changing environment. Explore reef restoration or aquaculture roles.

Subject Tags

  • Fisheries
  • Reefs
  • Aquaculture

Abstract

In the United Nations' decade on ecosystem restoration, humans are joining forces to develop innovative strategies to rebuild marine life. The use of aquaculture to restore or preserve aquatic habitats is emerging, with promising solutions for the restoration of endangered shellfish reefs. Here, we highlight some of the challenges and opportunities for positive aquaculture–restoration interactions and present a perspective on the systematic cultivation of shellfish reefs. We draw on historical oyster aquaculture practices, such as bottom farming, to argue that shellfish reef aquaculture may be a path to accelerate ecosystem recovery and persistence in the face of a changing environment.

Citation

Esquivel‐Muelbert, J.R., Alleway, H.K. and Bishop, M.J., 2024. Shellfish reef aquaculture: a perspective on the systematic cultivation of endangered biogenic habitats. Restoration Ecology, 32(5), p.e14166. https://doi.org/10.1111/rec.14166

TNC Authors