Oyster reefs are an important part of estuarine ecosystems.
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But, oyster reefs, which support the growth of significant fish species, help improve water quality and increase biodiversity, also are one of Australia's most threatened marine habitats.
When it comes to healthy waterways we don't always think about what's happening underwater.
Hunter Local Land Services and MidCoast Council are hosting an evening in Forster early next month which will offer important information about innovative projects like fish hotels.
"Researchers estimate that over 99 per cent of of natural shellfish reefs have been lost due to pollution, sedimentation, disease and habitat loss or degradation," Hunter Local Land Services' Brian Hughes said.
Oyster reefs play a valuable role in our environment and the installation of fish hotels and artificial reefs can help these vital habitats recover, he said.
"Scientists from Oceanwatch Australia and Sunshine Coast University are currently working on a variety of projects to help rehabilitate these areas and we've just started our first local project at Gereeba Island in the Wallamba River."
USC researcher, Dr Ben Gilby and Andy Myers from Oceanwatch Australia will be on hand on the evening presenting information their latest projects and providing an update on where the science is leading into the future.
The event is part of our Marine Discovery Program, which brings together some of the leading names in marine research and conservation to share their findings and raise awareness of our amazing ocean environments.
The event will be held at Club Forster on Thursday, May 9 from 6pm.
Light refreshments will be served, attendance is free of charge and RSVPs for catering purposes on the MidCoast Council Marine Discovery website.