Document Type

Article

Department/Program

Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Publication Date

1983

Journal

Journal of Shellfish Research

Volume

3

Issue

2

First Page

141

Last Page

151

Abstract

The public oyster grounds (Baylor Survey Grounds) in the James River, VA, were studied with respect to bottom type and oyster density from 1978 to 1981. Approximately 10,118 ha (25,000 acres) were investigated using an electronic positioning system to establish station locations. Bottom types were determined using probing pipes, patent tongs, and an acoustical device. About 17.1% of the bottom was classified as consolidated oyster reef, and 47.5% was moderately productive mud-shell or sand-shell bottoms. The remaining 35.4% was rated as unsuitable for oyster culture. The surface configuration of oyster reef areas in the James River is similar to those in coastal lagoons· along the Gulf of Mexico. They are thought to have developed in the James River as they did in the Gulf of Mexico area as sea level rose during the Holocene Period.

Keywords

Oysters -- Virginia

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