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Shellfish Pursuits: Population Dynamics of The Olympia Oyster, Ostrea Conchaphila, in Richardson Bay, CA - Year 2

Stefanie J. Lynch conducted a two-year study on the population dynamics of Olympia oysters in Richardson Bay, California. Over the two years, Lynch performed ecological transects at seven sites, measuring oyster size, abundance, and factors like water quality. Lynch found the oyster population remained statistically the same between years, though size distribution varied, likely due to renewal and turnover. Oyster abundance correlated with phosphate and calcium levels. The study provides baseline data on the natural oyster population and limiting factors, which is important for restoration efforts.

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84 views1 page

Shellfish Pursuits: Population Dynamics of The Olympia Oyster, Ostrea Conchaphila, in Richardson Bay, CA - Year 2

Stefanie J. Lynch conducted a two-year study on the population dynamics of Olympia oysters in Richardson Bay, California. Over the two years, Lynch performed ecological transects at seven sites, measuring oyster size, abundance, and factors like water quality. Lynch found the oyster population remained statistically the same between years, though size distribution varied, likely due to renewal and turnover. Oyster abundance correlated with phosphate and calcium levels. The study provides baseline data on the natural oyster population and limiting factors, which is important for restoration efforts.

Uploaded by

uhfste
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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CALIFORNIA STATE SCIENCE FAIR

2006 PROJECT SUMMARY

Name(s) Project Number


Stefanie J. Lynch
S1913
Project Title
Shellfish Pursuits: Population Dynamics of the Olympia oyster, Ostrea
conchaphila, in Richardson Bay, CA - Year 2
Abstract
Objectives/Goals
The Olympia oyster (Ostrea conchaphila) is the only native oyster on the Pacific Coast. Though once
highly abundant, populations have been severely depleted. The purpose of this project is to continue a
study of the natural population distribution and factors affecting growth and survival of Olympia oysters
in the intertidal zones of Richardson Bay.
Methods/Materials
Seventy 10-minute ecological transects were performed during low tide at five sites around Richardson
Bay, and at two other sites on main San Francisco (SF) Bay. Oyster size was measured, and water
samples were collected measuring potential limiting factors including salinity, turbidity, pH, temperature,
calcium, phosphate, silicate, and nitrate. Predators of the oysters were recorded, including oyster drills,
shore crabs, and flatworms. Individual oysters were tracked for growth rate.
Results
Oyster counts were found to be as prevalent in Year 2 (1353) as in Year 1 (1438, P= 0.54). Abundance by
location ranked in the same order as Year 1, with one exception, and predators were associated with
decreased counts at two sites. Size-frequency distribution curves show variation and multi-modal peaks
consistent with constant population renewal and turnover. Oyster counts correlated with phosphate (r =
0.73, P < 0.05) and with calcium levels (r= -0.80, P < 0.005). Individual oyster growth rate was highest
(1.26 mm/wk) at the site adjacent to an ongoing oyster restoration project.
Conclusions/Discussion
The Olympia oyster once thrived in the healthy ecosystem of San Francisco Bay. The first step in
successful restoration is acquiring detailed knowledge of the population distribution and factors limiting
survival. In this study, population abundance and size composition were determined for seven sites in
Richardson Bay and northern San Francisco Bay for two consecutive years. Total counts in the entire
study remained statistically unchanged while size-distribution varied widely, probably reflecting constant
renewal and change within the oyster populations due to waves of larval release and settlement at
preferred sites. Providing even small amounts of preferred habitat could supply a viable niche for oyster
survival.

Summary Statement
In this first detailed study of the natural population of Olympia oysters in Richardson Bay, CA, population
abundance, size composition, and limiting factors have been determined at seven sites during two
consecutive years.

Help Received
Parents drove me to transect sites. Dr. Michael McGowan, SFSU, offered advice on the transect process.
Adria Lassiter and Al Marchi, Romberg Tiburon Center, gave assistance with lab analysis of water
samples.

Ap2/06

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