Invasive Pacific Oysters Cleared by Volunteers in Falmouth – Over 5,600 Removed!

Last weekend, Falmouth Marine Conservation’s Pacific Oyster Coordinator, Chris Sharpe, joined forces with the Restronguet Creek Society to tackle the growing issue of invasive Pacific oysters in local waters. The team successfully removed a staggering 5,646 oysters, with some even being bagged for productive use.

What Is the Pacific Oyster Project?

Falmouth Marine Conservation runs the Pacific Oyster Project, a programme dedicated to tracking the rapid and unplanned spread of this invasive species. The project focuses on monitoring breeding patterns, biodiversity impacts, and the effect these oysters have on marine infrastructure. By gathering data and taking direct action, the team aims to protect local waters and ecosystems.

A Growing Problem in UK Waters

The Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) was first introduced to Britain in 1926 and later farmed commercially from the 1960s. At the time, experts believed that the cool temperatures of UK waters would prevent the species from spreading. However, rising sea temperatures have since allowed Pacific oysters to spread extensively around the coast, creating problems in certain areas where they form reefs and push out native intertidal species.

How the Surveys Work

Volunteers and conservation teams conduct monthly Pacific Oyster Surveys during low tide, working across the intertidal zones of the Fal Estuary. Their mission is to track the species’ unplanned growth, study its impact on biodiversity, and assess its effects on marine infrastructure and shoreline recreation.

Want to get involved? You can join the effort by signing up for the invite list at oystersurveys@falmouthmarineconservation.co.uk.