Synopsis
Pacific Oysters, which grow bigger and faster than Britain’s native oyster species, were introduced in the 1950s for oyster farms. As sea waters have warmed, Pacific Oysters have bred, and large populations are now found all around Cornwall. They have colonised mudflats, smothering these areas which traditionally provide both carbon storage and marine ecosystems that would feed wading birds and fish. Conversely, the oysters and their shells contain protein and calcium - commodities which have a value, such as being crushed and used in gardening to enrich soils.
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Cornwall Climate Care