Abstract
Oyster reefs have been identified as essential fish habitat for resident and transient species and, thus, provide habitat and shelter for these species. Oyster reefs may also provide higher diversity and availability of food or a greater amount of higher quality food compared to other habitats. Reef resident species are dependent on oyster reefs as their primary habitat and generally feed on other benthic invertebrates and fishes as well as on organic matter sources found on the reef. They use the narrow spaces between shell as shelter from predation and, in some cases, to avoid desiccation.