Filtration rates of reef forming bivalves under varying environmental conditions

Many coastal managers are being increasingly pressured to support shellfish reef restoration projects. This is occurring nationwide and Moreton Bay is the most recent target. Proponents point to the ability of shellfish to remove particulate matter from the water column. Sceptics suggest that smothering by mud and flood runoff will stop such reefs from establishing. Your mission is to parameterise the filtering capacity of three important bivalves, the quompi (Pinctada sp), mussel (Trichomya sp) and the oyster (Saccostrea sp) to inform management agencies of the performance of these three species and the limits of salinity, temperature and suspended particle density at which they cease to contribute to water quality enhancement.

Supervisor: Associate Professor Ian Tibbetts