Location and reef size drive oyster reef restoration success

• DOI: 10.1111/rec.14168
• Publication Date: 2024-05-17T02:26:42Z
• Authors: Olivia N. Caretti; David B. Eggleston; Brandon J. Puckett; DelWayne R. Bohne...
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; 01 natural sciences

Optimizing habitat restoration success requires understanding how location and design enhance the persistence function of a restored habitat. Particular attention to configuration structure its interaction with landscape‐scale processes is critical for enhancing value areas. We monitored six subtidal oyster reefs in Pamlico Sound, North Carolina, United States, identify demographics responded initial characteristics (e.g. reef area, volume, vertical relief, perimeter‐to‐area ratio) changes over time altered suitability oysters. Changes were measured by repeated mapping using bathymetric side‐scanning sonar systems. A 2‐year series demographic data quantified response time. All provided settlement growth Within 2 years restoration, relative differences recruitment survival emerged related variations two‐dimensional among reefs, namely area ratio. Larger that less fragmented resisted burial from sedimentation enhanced densities biomass smaller, more became heavily sedimented failed support survival. Positive feedback mechanisms between established within 1 year likely driven such as sediment dynamics larval supply. To improve success, we recommend creating larger surfaces low ratios areas promote persistence.