A unique environment is created in coastal areas and estuaries providing a habitat for shellfish species including oysters and mussels. The presence of these bivalves can affect the hydrodynamics and sediment properties in the surrounding area. Preliminary findings suggest both oysters and mussels can help enhance coastal sediment stability through protection and accretion. This study focused on analyzing the hydrodynamics and sediment properties around reefs located in subtidal and intertidal zones.
The hydrodynamics around the reef were measured using an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP). The ADCP gives a velocity profile of the water column showing how the presence of a bivalve reef can affect the water flow. Sediments were analyzed based on erodibility parameters obtained via Jet Erosion Tests and grain size.
The information gained from this study will help determine future coastal infrastructure. Oysters and mussels could assist shoreline protection, scour mitigation, and enhanced wild areas. However, different species tend to grow and interact with sediment in different ways; and different coastal conditions can affect the growth of reefs (artificial or natural) differently.
Keywords: Coastal protection, current profile, erosion, mussels, oysters