Oyster farming is a growing sector in aquaculture, valued for its ecological and economic contributions. However, optimizing growth conditions within oyster cages remains a challenge. Temperature and light exposure within grow-out bags can significantly impact oyster growth and health, yet little is known about how these conditions vary across different bag types, mesh sizes, and positions within a cage. Farmers often rely on trial and error to select setups, uncertain of the temperature dynamics within bags and their influence on oyster development. This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by systematically examining how environmental conditions fluctuate within oyster grow-out bags positioned at different cage locations. By analyzing the effects of bag type, mesh size, and placement on temperature and light levels, this research seeks to identify configurations that best support optimal oyster growth and farm efficiency.
This study, conducted at the FerryCliffe Aquaculture Farm at Roger Williams University, Rhode Island, investigates how bag type, mesh size, and bag placement within an oyster bottom cage influence water temperature and light intensity—two factors critical to oyster health and productivity. Using a 6-bag (2×3) oyster bottom cage, three 6-mm mesh bags were positioned on one side (top, middle, and bottom) and three 4-mm mesh bags on the other. HOBO® data loggers recorded hourly water temperature, and light intensity measurements were taken to assess environmental variation within the cage setup over a one-year period (March 2024–March 2025).
We hypothesize that temperatures will be higher inside the bags compared to outside, with the top bags experiencing the greatest warmth, especially in smaller mesh sizes due to limited water flow. Additionally, we anticipate light intensity to decrease with depth. By providing a clearer understanding of temperature variation within grow-out bags at different cage locations, this study will offer practical insights for farmers seeking to optimize oyster growth conditions.
The results of this study will inform best practices in oyster aquaculture by identifying optimal configurations that enhance productivity and minimize environmental stressors. By tailoring bag type, mesh size, and placement to meet specific environmental conditions, oyster farmers can potentially improve yield while supporting sustainable aquaculture practices.