A habitat suitability model for Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) in the Oosterschelde

Abstract

The modelled habitat suitability maps show a reasonable estimation of the suitability for oysters throughout the Delta and can be used to broadly indicate the consequences of the effect of climate change and infrastructural changes on the habitat suitability for oysters. The largest effect on the suitable area for oysters is when the Volkerak-Zoommeer is connected to the salt water of the Grevelingenmeer, whereas the increase in seawater-level only affect suitability for oysters on a local scale