The European oyster (Ostrea edulis) and its epibiotic succession

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate intra-and inter-site differences in the epibiota on the European oyster Ostrea edulis of different ages and on hard substrata to assess their contribution to biodiversity. This research has shown that shells of O. edulis do show higher species diversity than non-living hard substrata and as oysters grow larger epibiotic diversity will increase. This investigation has revealed that O. edulis possesses biogenic engineering qualities and the value of O. edulis as a vehicle for increasing biodiversity should not be underestimated. Relatively few studies have examined the shell surfaces of Ostrea edulis, which, together with their associated epifauna provide a large portion of the natural hard substrata for sessile filter-feeding organisms, including oysters, in coastal and estuarine ecosystems. It can be considered a keystone species which has an influence on intertidal and subtidal community structures.

Comparing community structure on shells of the abalone Haliotis midae and adjacent rock: implications for biodiversity

“…They confirm the finding of a number of previous studies (e.g. Steneck 1986;Warner 1997;Bell 2005;Smyth and Roberts 2010), but we are the first to demonstrate this for the abalone H. midae. With one notable exception (H. woelkerlingii), coralline algae, and in particular nongeniculate corallines, benefitted from their association with abalone shells.…”

Settlement of Ostrea edulis is determined by the availability of hard substrata rather than by its nature: Implications for stock recovery and restoration of the European oyster

“…Site selection was based on results from previous stock density and larval settlement surveys within Strangford Lough (Kennedy & Roberts, , ; Smyth & Roberts, ). To ascertain whether oyster larvae show a settlement preference in relation to substrate type, it was essential to select high‐density oyster sites with a wide variety of naturally available substrates.…”

Benthic assemblages associated with native and non-native oysters are similar

“…Further concerns have been raised when C. gigas has been found on existing subtidal O. edulis populations (Tully and Clarke, 2012;personal observation). C. gigas has been found to affect O. edulis adversely and thus may displace the native species, potentially also altering associated diversity and functioning (Beck et al, 2011;Ruesink et al, 2005;Smyth and Roberts, 2010;Zwerschke et al, in review).…”