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Research Publications: UM-SG-RS-2020-08
Title:
The role of ecosystem services in the decision to grow oysters: A Maryland case studyYear:
2020Authors:
Michaelis, AK; Walton, WC; Webster, DW; Shaffer, LJSource:
Aquaculture 529DOI:
10.1016/j.aquaculture.2020.735633Abstract:
Ecosystem services provided by oysters are regularly cited to gain support for the continued development of oyster aquaculture, but we have limited understanding of whether and how these benefits influence those who grow oysters. Participant observation and semi-structured interviews occurred with 57 oyster growers in Maryland (United States) to detail factors motivating entry into the oyster aquaculture industry. Results, framed under a lens of ecosystem services, indicate that cultural services are more likely to motivate aquaculture participation than provisioning, regulating or supporting services. This study emphasizes the significance of cultural ecosystem services and defines the need to better understand those provided by oysters and other farmed shellfish. A more complete description of the ecosystem services provided through shellfish aquaculture could serve to enhance support of farmed shellfisheries. In addition, this participatory approach highlights challenges within the ecosystem services framework regarding linked services and their complexity.Related Research Project(s) Funded by Maryland Sea Grant:
'Related Research Project(s)' link to details about research projects funded by Maryland Sea Grant that led to this publication. These details may include other impacts and accomplishments resulting from the research.
'Maryland Sea Grant Topic(s)' links to related pages on the Maryland Sea Grant website.
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Featured Fellow
Leone Yisrael is a cephalopod-loving scuba diver, cook, and loves to try new activities. She conducts genetic analysis and fieldwork at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center through the Coastal Disease Ecology Lab.
Featured Research Project
Exploring the Use of Benthic Microbial Fuel Cells to Remove Sulfide While Harvesting Energy from Oyster Aquaculture Biodeposits
Oyster aquaculture is a rapidly growing industry in Maryland’s Chesapeake waters which stimulates economic activity and may provide a host of ecosystem benefits. A potential concern associated with the intensification of the oyster aquaculture is the local production and accumulation of oyster biodeposits, which can lead to a porewater sulfide accumulation and declining bioturbation, symptoms of declining ecosystem function. Sulfide is naturally removed from the seafloor by the interactions between bioturbating infauna and sulfide oxidizing bacteria.
Chesapeake Quarterly Magazine
A Growing Industry: Advancing Oyster Aquaculture in Maryland
