The NSW Department of Primary Industries constructed trial shellfish reefs at two sites (Kaura and Myall) in the Port Stephens estuary to increase habitat, enhance water quality and stabilise the shoreline. 7,500 tonnes of rock and 180 m3 of recycled shell were used to create reef bases, creating 7.5ha of reef habitat. Construction took 159 days to complete and the project is being closely monitored to determine its success and inform future oyster reef projects. So far, over 55 million oysters have recruited, growing up to 3/4 of the size of wild adults in 22 months. The project has seen significant habitat improvement for other marine species as well.
Shellfish
Method: Substrate provision
Shellfish species: Sydney rock oyster, Saccostrea glomerata
Hybrid structure: Consolidated shell, Natural rock
Approach
Shellfish
Geographic context
Estuary
Organisation responsible
NSW Department of Primary Industries
Primary objective
Habitat restoration
Coastal hazard
Erosion
Asset vulnerable
Natural
Area of project (ha)
7.5
Date of completion
2021
Cost ($AUD)
$1.5 million
Source of project funding
State
Project approvals needed
State