Protect and regulate China's oyster resources

Yang, H. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9940-8273, Ma, M., Thompson, J. R. and Flower, R. J. (2021) Protect and regulate China's oyster resources. AAAS. doi: 10.1126/science.abg8656

Abstract/Summary

China has at least 30 oyster species, all of which provide valuable ecosystem services. Oysters’ filter feeding habit reduces suspended particles and nutrients. One hectare of oyster reef can clean a volume of water equivalent to nearly 15 Olympic swimming pools daily. Oysters’ excrement can stimulate denitrification by removing nitrogenous organic matter, helping to mitigate eutrophication. Natural oyster reefs provide habitat for many species, enhancing biodiversity and increasing fisheries. Oyster reefs can reduce impacts of waves caused by hurricanes and typhoons, stabilizing shorelines. Despite their ecological importance, 85% of oyster reefs globally have been degraded since the 19th century by overharvesting, coastal development, water pollution, and disease. China’s oyster reefs, especially those in Tianjin and Jiangsu, have been seriously damaged during recent decades. Urgent action by Chinese authorities is required to protect these crucial species.

Item Type	Other
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/96370
Identification Number/DOI	10.1126/science.abg8656
Divisions	Science > School of Archaeology, Geography and Environmental Science > Department of Geography and Environmental Science
Publisher	AAAS
Download/View statistics	View download statistics for this item