Utilizing Complex Pervious Oyster Shell Habitats for Oyster Reef Habitat Provision in Northeast Florida

Abstract

Oyster reef restoration projects have been developed to provide habitat for fish and crustaceans. Some novel restoration structures employ greater complexity in attempts to better restore oyster reef habitat along degraded shorelines. The Pervious Oyster Shell Habitat (POSH) was created with greater structural complexity and strength to enhance oyster reef habitat for fish and crustaceans in energetic systems. The purpose of this study was to assess the POSH’s short-term ability to provide oyster reef habitat by measuring utilization of the POSH by fish and decapod crustaceans. Nekton abundances, diversity indices, and community similarity were compared between POSH structures, Reef Innovations’ “Oyster Ball”, and a natural oyster reef control. Artificial reef modules were sampled using 2 m2 bottomless lift nets, over one year, along two energetic shorelines in northeast Florida. Fish abundances were low and variable among treatments, with no significant differences detected. Crustacean abundances were greater on the POSH than the Oyster Ball, aside from winter at one site, with significant differences detected for all but two measurements. Nekton community analyses were similar among all treatments and sites. The POSH’s design provided more interstitial space for utilization by common benthic crustaceans. Stakeholders attempting to restore degraded shorelines should consider employing the method.