Oyster Reefs(Research Paper Written During GreenScience Workshop 1 : A Scientific Approach to the Ocean)

By Various Authors(Grades 4 to 9)

Introduction: The below is written by the combined efforts of 30+ 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?

The history of oysters in Hong Kong is culturally important. Oysters are often a source of traditional Chinese medicine. These medicines help with your health. In addition Oysters have been harvested in Hong Kong for centuries and were developed in the Qing dynasty which is as far back 4,000 years. Therefore, oyster farming is a tradition so it’s important to keep it. Oysters are also important because they are used in various local dishes. Some examples include oyster congee and oyster pancakes. Overall oysters and historically and culturally important. 

Oysters are extremely important to the Hong Kong economy. Oysters contribute a lot of money to Hong Kong. This allows the government to get more money to improve Hong Kong and make it a better place for us to live. Also oyster farming provides 1000 jobs or more. These jobs provide work for people who don’t have one which reduces the amount of jobless and homeless people in HK. Third, people enjoy eating oysters. This makes more shells for oyster reefs and provides shelter for other ocean animals such as jellyfish and baby oysters. Oysters are important to the Hong Kong economy due to contributing lots of money, providing jobs, and feeding a lot of people. 

Oysters are natural water purifiers that improve water quality and support diverse marine life. A single oyster is capable of filtering up to 200 liters of water a day and just 7 m^2 of Hong Kong oyster reef can filter up to one olympic swimming pool of water each day. This shows oysters’ ability to efficiently purify the earth's oceans and produce clean water beneficial for us and the marine ecosystems. Oysters also enhance water clarity and quality. At summer temperatures, a single adult local oyster can filter up to 960 liters of water a day–the record for any species. This filtration is crucial for the survival of other marine species and the overall health of the ecosystem. Improved water clarity leads to more sunlight penetration, allowing aquatic plants to perform more photosynthesis which in turn provide habitats for marine species. In conclusion, oysters are crucial for the health of marine ecosystems and land. 

Oysters are good for marine biodiversity. They generate habitats and nursing grounds. This increases biodiversity in coastal regions. Second, they reduce wave energy and protect shorelines. It reduces damage to Hong Kong shores. Also oysters reduce harmful algal blooms that might deplete oxygen levels and release toxins into the ocean. Other marine animals can then thrive in better environments. Oysters help marine biodiversity,  many humans and many marine animals. 

The current state of oyster reefs in HK is really bad due to multiple reasons. “Many families have given up oyster farming, only about 60 families remain in Lau Fan Shan.”(HKU)  This means that many people have quit oyster farming. And oyster reefs “have an estimated 85 percent global loss. “ So oyster reefs are very endangered. Oysters are also facing “insufficient supply of oyster seeds.” This makes it hard for the oysters to grow. 

Human activities are the biggest threat to oysters. 60 percent of coastal waters in Hong Kong are affected by pollution such as heavy metals, microplastic, excess nutrients, etc. In addition, commercial catch of oysters has decreased by 70% in the past 2 years.  Also 20% of Hong Kong's original coastal habitats have been lost to development causing the decline of oyster reefs. 

Currently, NGO organizations are connecting to help oyster reefs. JP Morgan and the government are supporting and raising money towards foundations that are helping oysters. This allows these foundations to expand their help. Sustainable oyster farming has increased by 50% in recent years, including expansion on research and community restoration efforts. Also regulations have been established to manage protection efforts by the HK government. Right now efforts are underway to designate protected areas and habitats. With support from the Lan Fau Shan and Yung Shue O aquaculture communities, TNC has deployed two pilot oyster reefs in Lau Fan Shan and Tolo Harbour using discarded shells. Their connected effort is essential for future data collection and restoration development. 

There are many ways to protect oyster reefs in the future. First of all, you can fund research, supporting more comprehensive studies on the ecological roles of oysters and the effectiveness of restoration efforts. Next, we can advocate for better enforcement of existing regulations and the introduction of new protective measures as it can help safeguard oyster reefs for future generations. Lastly, we can explore innovative solutions. For example, use of technology in monitoring oyster populations and water quality can enhance conservation efforts. In conclusion, all the above methods are ways to protect oyster reefs for the future.