Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Oyster Spatfall In Virginia Waters: 1990 Annual Summary, Bruce J. Barber

Reports

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) conducts surveys ofoyster spatfall (or "setting") in Virginia waters throughout the summer reproductive period. This survey provides an estimate of the potential of a particular area for receiving a "strike" or set of oysters on the bottom and helps define the timing of setting events. Information obtained from this effort is valuable to the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) for its shell repletion program, and to private oyster growers, both of which are interested in maximizing the timing of shell planting. In addition, by maintaining a long-term data base, trends in spatfall throughout …