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Oyster redux: JU’s Quinton White has more on the mollusk in ‘River Life’ column

JU’s Quinton White has more on oysters in his latest monthly ‘River Life’ column in The Florida Times-Union.

JU Marine Science Research Institute Executive Director Quinton White

In the Friday, July 26, Metro section column, White, executive director of JU’s Marine Science Research Institute, discusses more facts about the mollusk.

Here are some excerpts:

The St. Johns River is an extremely complex ecosystem. And perhaps the most complex habitat in the more saline estuary portion is the oyster bar or reef.

A recent story in the Times-Union reported that it’s been 15 years since Duval County oysters were legal to harvest, but some groups are studying whether it makes sense to spend the money to see if the water is clean enough between Fort George Island and Nassau Sound for harvesting.

No matter the decision, the number of oysters and the amount of suitable habitat for their growth and survival are declining. Part of the problem is water quality, but part of the problem is also the complex life cycle of the oyster.

Oyster reefs are very efficient filter feeders that help clarify the water. They are also excellent for shoreline stabilization, preventing erosion and providing shelter for hundreds of other animals. So, consider the complex life cycle when you order that next platter of steamed or raw oysters, but also consider the health of the water from which it was harvested.

Read the entire column here.