Controlled experiment not an "introduction" of an alien species
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) supported the February 25, 2003, action taken by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission (VMRC) to permit additional aquaculture testing of sterilized non-native Chinese oysters (Crassostrea ariakensis) in the Bay. The test, proposed by the Virginia Seafood Council, will serve as a basis for examining the marketability of raising sterile oysters using aquaculture. The test incorporates safeguards and monitoring as recommended by CBF, the National Academy of Sciences, Chesapeake Bay Program, and Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS). The Council's test follows two earlier, smaller trials conducted by VIMS.
This test does not represent an "introduction" of an alien species. Rather, it is a controlled research experiment using sterilized (non-reproductive) oysters. Since the Seafood Council first proposed testing non-native oysters in the Bay, CBF and many other agencies and organizations have voiced concerns about the threat of inadvertently introducing fertile non-native oysters to the Bay. This test poses minimal risk to the environment as a result of safeguards that include a limited timeframe, requiring interim and final progress reports, intense screening to ensure use of only sterile oysters, and monitoring for any evidence that the sterile oysters are "reverting" to fertile oysters during the aquaculture test.
CBF continues its opposition to any introduction of non-native oysters in reproductive form at this time and strongly supports the comprehensive review being undertaken by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) to evaluate the risks and impacts of such an introduction. The NAS will report its findings later this year.
"The test is scientifically sound and will provide additional information for making future decisions about potential uses for sterile non-native oysters in the Bay," said Dr. Robert Brumbaugh, CBF fisheries scientist.
Brumbaugh added that "aquaculture of sterile non-native oysters may hold commercial promise for the seafood industry, and CBF is supportive of responsibly exploring that potential. However, CBF continues to fully and aggressively support and promote the restoration of the native oyster. The Bay will never be truly saved until native oysters return. CBF is optimistic that can and will occur through continued efforts to construct sanctuary reefs and stock them with large numbers of disease-tolerant oysters."
Posted: 3-7-2003
