Research Proposal Seminar - Anthony Lima

COASTAL AND MARINE SYSTEM SCIENCE PROGRAM
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-CORPUS CHRISTI

SUBJECT: DEVELOPMENT OF TEXAS OYSTER MARICULTURE THROUGH REGULATORY COMPARISON AND ADVANCED SITING TOOLS

ADVISOR: Dr. Joe Fox

ABSTRACT

Oyster populations throughout much of Texas have faced significant decline from a variety of pressures, resulting in loss of fisheries and critical ecosystem services. The introduction of House Bill 1300 has enabled oyster mariculture within the state. The goal of this dissertation is to understand and enhance decision making for both state agencies and those engaged in oyster cultivation. I will focus first broadly through analysis of regulatory trends but focus primarily on siting techniques. Chapter 1 of my dissertation will analyze the introduction of oyster mariculture through HB 1300, while reviewing and assessing properties of regulatory schema to find trends in mature industries. Chapter 2 will assess siting methodology used by state agencies and compare those results against an Aquaculture Suitability Index (ASI). The ASI combines habitat suitability modeling with algorithms designed to predict water quality parameters that are required for consistent oyster growth. Chapter 3 will build upon the previous chapter, using Farm Aquaculture Resource Management (FARM) modeling to determine carrying capacity and limitations of bay systems. This study will increase our understanding of the potential for oyster mariculture success within the state of Texas and generate tools to be used within the industry.

To view this seminar:

https://tamucc.webex.com/tamucc/j.php?MTID=m6062b68bb1576bd87d720eb6fb755b2a

Meeting number: 133 915 8909
Password: M2TeFtpWK37 (62833879 from phones)