Oyster reef revival begins in Belgium

BELREEFS is a collaboration between Jan De Nul Group, Mantis Consulting and the Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences, Shells & Valves. Taking advice from the Native Oyster Restoration Alliance, the team aims to restore these critical habitats that support entire ecosystems.

“We want to create an oyster reef that is self-sustaining,” said Vicky Stratigaki, engineer and project coordinator for BELREEFS at Jan De Nul Group.

“Our ambition is to create long-term nature restoration, without further human intervention.”

Before 1850, flat oyster reefs were a dominant feature in the North Sea but have all but disappeared thanks to human influences and a persistent parasite.

The key to restoring this habitat, say the scientists, is in determining the best location.

“Natural protection from damage and optimal placement conditions are crucial,” explained Vera Van Lancker and Steven Degraer, Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences.

“To maximise the survival and reproduction of oyster reefs, we identify locations with the most suitable seabed and environmental conditions.”

As well as a detailed mapping of the seabed, the project will use innovations such as ‘remote setting’, a technique which allows oyster larvae to settle directly on a suitable substance in the lab, before releasing them into the sea.

Once installed, the oysters will be followed for several years through an intensive monitoring programme.