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In Georgia's estuaries, tourists noticed reduced water quality, a lack of sea grasses, and an absence of oysters. They wondered what caused these changes.

What should marine scientists do to help restore the ecosystem?

A. Restore the oysters because they are the keystone species.
B. Restore the sea grass because it is the keystone species.
C. Restore the oyster's predators because they are the keystone species.
D. Restore the crabs and other crustaceans because they are the keystone species.

Answer :

Final answer:

To restore Georgia's estuarine ecosystem, marine scientists should focus on restoring the oyster population as a key measure. Oysters significantly enhance water quality and provide habitats for various marine life. Effective strategies include reintroducing healthy oysters, creating reefs, and engaging the public in conservation efforts.


Explanation:

Restoring Georgia's Estuarine Ecosystem

The changes in water quality and the absence of sea grasses and oysters in Georgia's estuaries point toward an imbalance in the ecosystem. Since oysters are considered a keystone species, their restoration should be prioritized. By bringing back the oyster population, we can enhance water quality through their filter-feeding behavior and provide essential habitat for various marine organisms.

To restore oysters successfully, marine scientists can take the following steps:

  1. Reintroduce healthy oyster populations: Utilizing disease-resistant varieties developed in previous restoration projects like the Chesapeake Bay can help reestablish the ecosystem.
  2. Create oyster reefs: Using recycled oyster shells as a substrate, marine scientists can build new reefs that provide habitat and shelter for other species.
  3. Engage in public education: Initiatives like New York City's Billion Oyster Project emphasize the importance of oyster reefs as ecosystem engineers.

Restoring oysters will help improve water clarity, support other species, and ultimately restore the estuarine ecosystem's health.


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