This week we learned how to harvest shellfish. We learned how to help shellfish grow, why shellfish are important for the environment, and how to identify the different types of shellfish. Then we went out in the field and helped move oysters from one growth tray to another. First, we had to build the new trays for the oysters to live on. Then we took bags of oysters that were about five months old and broke them up. The oysters are grown in bags at first so predators do not eat them. Since they are so close together inside the bag, the oyster grow one on top of another and form a big clamp of oysters. So, we have to break them apart and spread them out on big trays. They can go on the trays because they are bigger and not as many predators will eat them. It was fun but tough work. It is hard not to break some of the oysters and kill them. When you dump out the bags of oysters you also dump out all these tiny creatures that have hidden in among the oysters. I dumped out one bag and out came a baby American eel. Here are some pictures of me working. I know, I have a very tough job: riding boats, hanging out in the water, and eating lunch on a dock. :)
1) Everyone on the boat with all our gear.
2) Building the new home for the oysters.
3) Placing the tray in the water.
4) Fishing out a bag of oysters.
5) Breaking up the oysters. We had to wear gloves because they were very sharp.
6) Jacs dumping the separated oysters into their new home.
7) Eating lunch on the dock.
1 comment:
Hi Ms. Frame
looks like your working hard and having fun. everyone says hi at school and we all miss you. I'll be watching for more pictures. see you later one of your girls
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