Oyster (Crassostrea virginica) Mortality Studies Along the Texas Coast

Abstract

Mortality rates among oysters (Crassostrea virginica) of different sizes and from different bay areas were compared in three separate studies in Galveston, Matagorda, and Aransas Bays. A general pattern of spring and late summer mortality cycles was observed in Galveston and Aransas Bays with higher mortalities occurring in late summer. An unusual fall (November) mortality period was observed in Matagorda Bay. Dermocystidium appeared to be the major cause of mortality among oyster stocks in Galveston Bay but was not responsible for the extreme mortalities in Matagorda and Aransas Bays. The presence of Aransas Bay Organisms (ABO) in these areas was suspected but not confirmed.