A new environmental initiative has been launched in St Helier Harbour, with the deployment of 6,000kg of mature oysters, aimed at improving water quality through their natural filtration process.
Oysters are highly efficient at filtering water. A single oyster can filter up to 190 litres of water per day. The 6000 kg of oysters, amounting to nearly 50,000 individual oysters, can collectively filter around 9,500,000 litres of water daily. This is expected to significantly enhance the ecological health of the harbour.
The project uses Triploid Oysters, which are sterile and do not reproduce. This allows them to grow faster and remain plump year-round, providing consistent water filtration. Triploid Oysters are safe for marine environments and are commonly used in aquaculture due to their resilience and efficiency.
The benefits of this project include –
- Improved Water Quality: Oysters filter out pollutants, algae, and sediments, leading to clearer and cleaner water.
- Nutrient Reduction: They help remove excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, preventing harmful algal blooms.
- Biodiversity Enhancement: Oyster reefs provide habitat for various marine species, boosting local biodiversity.
- Carbon Sequestration: Oysters trap carbon dioxide in their shells and stabilise sediments, which helps reduce CO₂ levels.
- Erosion Control: Oyster reefs act as natural barriers, reducing wave energy and protecting shorelines from erosion.
- Economic Benefits: Healthy oyster populations can support local fisheries and aquaculture.
Head of Maritime Operations, Louise Stafford, says: “Oysters, small but mighty, possess an incredible ability to filter water. We are aiming to harness this natural skill to further improve water quality in the harbour.
“We’re grateful to the Jersey Oyster Company, who have helped to provide these Triploid Oysters, which will play a crucial role in filtering the water. We’re now considering similar projects in other areas of our harbour.”
Chris Le Masurier, owner of Jersey Oyster Company, said: “We are incredibly grateful to be collaborating with Ports of Jersey on this innovative project. This initiative not only highlights the remarkable natural abilities of oysters but also underscores our commitment to sustainability. By working together, we aim to make St Helier Harbour a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for future generations.”
The oysters have been placed beneath Albert Pier, under the St Helier marina access ramp, and next to the accommodation pods in St Helier Marina.
The deployment will be closely monitored to assess the health of the oysters, and their effectiveness in improving water quality. Data collected will help inform future environmental initiatives aimed at maintaining good quality water in the harbour.