Oyster Reefs 2.0(Research Paper Written During GreenScience Workshop 2 : A Scientific Approach to the Ocean)

By: Various Authors(G5-G8)

Introduction: The below is written by students from G4-G9 attending A Scientific Approach to the Ocean: Knowledge and Lab– a workshop hosted by GreenScience. Ideologically this research paper resembles a puzzle piece, with every group of 3-4 students creating a single paragraph. Every Group was provided with a curated packet of information along with one of the questions below to answer. Together they explore the role of oyster reefs in Hong Kong’s marine ecosystems following a TNC guest speaker.  Enjoy!

1. What is the history of oysters in HK and why are they culturally important?

2. Why are oysters important to the HK economy?

3. How do oysters play a role in filtration of water?

4. In what ways do oysters promote marine biodiversity?

5. What is the current state of oyster reefs in HK?

6. What are current threats to oyster reefs in HK?

7. What are current methods that are being used to protect oyster reefs?

8. What can we do to protect oyster reefs in the future?

Oysters are a big part of Hong Kong culture and history. Oysters have been in Hong Kong for centuries and have been consumed as far as 4,000 years ago. It all started in the Qing dynasty, proving oyster farming and consumption is an important slice of ancient history. Hong Kong fishermen have changed the development and harvesting method of oysters to perfect it and match the Hong Kong culture and taste. Also, did you know that oysters are often included in traditional Chinese medicine? They have multiple uses, such as improving skin health and enhancing vitality. Oyster farming plays an important role lastly in the HK economy. Let's be honest, not a lot of farmers in HK are rich, and they try hard to make enough money to support their family, get enough food, etc. But the farming and selling of oysters bring money to the local markets and strengthen the HK economy. Oysters have dated back to thousands of years ago, are specific to HK, have often been incorporated in traditional Chinese medicine, and support the HK economy. This is why oysters are a significant part of Hong Kong history and culture.

I believe that oysters are very important to the HK economy. Firstly, the oyster economy makes around 25 million USD annually, contributing significantly to the income of Hong Kong. Secondly, the oyster community provides around 1000 jobs directly, supporting endless families every year. Third and lastly, it increases the export volume of Hong Kong, which provides increased income for the economy. Thus. oysters are important to the Hong Kong economy because of the income it provides, the job it creates,and increases the export volume of Hong Kong.

Oysters play a vital role in improving water quality, supporting marine biodiversity and protecting our coastlines. Oyster reefs provide habitat and nursery grounds for many species. Oyster reefs create habitats for many marine animals like fish or invertebrates. Oyster beds also help the growth for seagrass and other vegetation, supporting marine life and improving water quality. Projects have led to an increased population of important fish. 

Oysters play a big role in the ocean. They remove phytoplankton, sediments, and pollutants to create a healthy reef. They help by filtering water and removing chemicals from the water. The oysters build a beautiful reef for marine animals to live in. They remove phytoplankton to build a beautiful reef. They make the water quality richer and cleaner. 

The current state of oyster reefs in Hong Kong is very bad. Oyster reefs are the most endangered marine habitat on the planet with an estimated 85 global loss. Historical records indicate that oyster reefs in Hong Kong have declined by over 90% since the mid 20-th century due to over fishing, pollution, and habitat loss. Many families have given up oyster farming. Only about 60 families remain in Lau Fau Shan, and the oyster aquaculture industry in Hong Kong is facing danger. Decades of commercial dredging have decimated the oyster populations. 

There are many current threats to oyster reefs in Hong Kong. First there is pollution. Pollution significantly impacts water quality. Also there is overfishing. Unsustainable harvesting practices have led to the depletion of oyster populations. Lastly, there is climate change. Rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification due to climate change are threats to oyster health and survival. 

Hong Kong is using many methods to protect oyster reefs including aquaculture, restoration projects, fishing regulations and research initiatives. Lau Fau Shan and Yung Shue O aquaculture communities have supported TNC with developing two pilot oyster reefs in Lau Fau shan and TOlo Harbor using discarded shells to monitor the impact on the marine biodiversity and water pH level. These pilots are extremely important for data and future restoration development. With the support from J. P Morgan and the University of Hong Kong have restored more than 150 oyster reefs around the world and are continuously pushing to understand them better. This will benefit the ecological qualities of the oyster reefs in Hong Kong. This helps restore shellfish reefs in Deep Bay, Hong Kong, increasing the biodiversity of marine life. The Hong Kong government has made regulations to control fishing portions and protect important habitats for marine creatures. The fisheries protection ordinance aims to achieve sustainable fishing and habitat conservation. This will help marine biodiversity by protecting marine areas that include important oyster reefs. In conclusion there are four main practices used today to protect oyster reefs. TNC is using aquaculture communities to help boost the oceans' life. HKU is doing restoration projects all over HK to help the oceans biodiversity. And the government of HK is reinforcing regulations on fish, so as not to deplete the ocean's life. 

Community Engagement in reef restoration is important for the future. These initiatives have shown an increase of 25% in local engagement for conservation activities. As scientific research has continued monitoring of the oyster population and water quality is very important for future management choices. With the funding increased by 15% in recent years the research will have more support in comprehensive studies.