Though we most often find shellfish on the dinner table, aquatic invertebrates are abundant in Georgia's underwater communities. More than underwater bugs, crustaceans such as shrimp, crab, and crayfish are essential parts of the aquatic food chain. And mollusks like clams, oysters, and mussels provide an additional service to the ecosystem by filtering water and acting as an indicator species. A healthy population means a healthy environment.

Join us as we explore Georgia's shellfish. We'll visit a clam farm and harvest oysters on the coast, and explore the techniques and methods of shrimping and crabbing recreationally in Georgia. We'll also see how the flow of water through rivers and streams impacts their life cycle.

Finally, we'll show you what it takes to dig for burrowing crayfish, and have a rare look at the fascinating underwater behavior of endangered freshwater mussels. You'll be surprised by the lengths these bottom dwelling species go to for reproduction!

Related Links

www.gofishgeorgia.com
You can buy your Georgia hunting or fishing license by phone, by mail or online.

Regulations on shrimping and crabbing in Georgia, Regulations for oyster and clam harvests in Georgia
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources is responsible for the regulation of Georgia's Fisheries.

clam mariculture program
The UGA Marine Extension Center provides more information about its clam mariculture program.

www.blue-crab.org
From the blue crabs lifecycle to favorite recipes this, website provides all kinds of information about blue crabs.

Crayfishworld
Everything you ever wanted to know about crayfish.

report
Want to learn more about freshwater mussels? Read this report on the Status of Aquatic Mollusks in the Southeastern United States.

www.aboutseafood.com
For tips on cooking shellfish

Additional Resources

Recreational shellfish harvest areas are located in Chatam County, Glynn County, McIntosh County, and Camden County.

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