Our native oyster is found along the Bay bottom throughout the Chesapeake. It’s been around for 15 million years, and in some places fossil shells are 50 feet thick. Once plentiful, most of our oysters have fallen prey to two diseases commonly known as MSX and Dermo.

Oysters are important for several reasons. First, like a filter on a fish tank, they remove algae and tiny particles that cloud the water. And because so many of us like to buy and eat oysters, they are a shellfish that helps our economy. Oyster beds also make good homes for other creatures that live in the Bay. This is why Maryland is working hard to restore a healthy oyster population to the Chesapeake Bay.

Illustration of Eastern Oyster is from
a 1902 Colorlitho by S.F. Denton

For more information:
Fish Facts: Eastern Oyster