Shellfish aquaculture is widely regarded as an environmentally friendly source of animal protein, providing numerous ecosystem services such as water filtration and habitat creation. As global interest in sustainable food sources grows, there is increasing enthusiasm for expanding oyster aquaculture to meet rising demands while promoting ecological benefits.
But despite oysters being cultivated for millennia, modern aquaculture practices—especially off-bottom production systems—are far from optimized. New gear types and innovative production methods require rigorous research to maximize oyster yields and improve understanding of their ecological interactions. While oysters offer clear co-benefits, potential negative environmental impacts must also be investigated. Research farms play a crucial role in advancing aquaculture science, offering full-scale experimental settings robust studies.
To help meet the needs of the oyster industry, the UMCES Oyster Demonstration Farm at Horn Point Laboratory, located on the Choptank River in the Chesapeake Bay, will be expanding from its original 3-acre site to a 16-acre farm this year. This expanded farm enables in-depth research into bottom culture, reef creation, and intertidal infrastructure with oysters. The facility will assess various aquaculture production systems, including on-bottom production and harvesting, off-bottom methods such as float cages, suspended culture, and experimental gear aimed at optimizing oyster growth and evaluating the environmental impacts of these systems. On-bottom production in newly designated zones can now include evaluation of artificial substrate types, including artificial shells, clam shells, and stone to assess oyster recruitment and harvestability. These areas will also be used as test beds for robotic and drone assistance in farm management. By studying diverse planting, management, and harvesting techniques, this research farm will advance the efficiency and sustainability of oyster farming practices.