Shellfish Research

 

Dr. Lynn Leonard, Geology and Geography, and students transplanted Oyster (Crassostrea virginica) Beds as Self-Sustaining Mechanisms for Water Quality Improvements in Small Tidal Creeks. Attached is a Pilot Study Slide Show.

 

Drs. Martin Posey and Ami Wilbur, Biology and Marine Biology, focus on developing new technologies for shellfish aquaculture. UNCW's close proximity to shellfish producing areas provides students opportunities to work with local growers on scientific issues confronting the industry.

 

Dr. Martin Posey's research projects include examining ecosystem functions of oyster reefs, including use of oyster reefs as habitat for fish, crabs, shrimp, and benthos as well as the role of oysters in filtering the overlying water column. This work is a joint colaboration with colleagues and several universities and government agencies.

 

Dr. Ami Wilbur is also working, as part of a multidisciplinary effort, to restore and enhance populations of bay scallops (Argopecten irradians) on Florida's Gulf Coast.