With the disappearance of the European oyster from the North Sea, general knowledge about this once important for society species has also been lost: Oyster fishery was still considered one of the most important fisheries in Europe at beginnings of the 20th century, providing a livelihood for many citizens. Within the framework of PROCEED, and in addition to the production of oyster seed and the associated research, an intensive knowledge transfer too takes place:

Transfer between European restoration projects

In 2017, the European network NORA (Native Oyster Restoration Alliance) was founded as an initiative of AWI and BfN. As an international platform, NORA promotes development of strategies in terms of monitoring, biosecurity, production, and technology transfer between ongoing and future restoration projects.

Since 2020, members from various restoration projects have held additional meetings within the frame of the newly founded “Outreach Working Group”, in order to exchange information on outreach work of all projects, and to jointly develop products. More information on the topic can be found here.

The network coordination was developed as part of the PROCEED project, and will be operated for 2 years by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) organization. Up-to-date information can be found on the website https://noraeurope.eu/.

Bringing back the European oyster into society’s consciousness

Due to its once great importance, especially in the coastal areas of Germany, historical references to the European oyster can be found at many locations. PROCEED builds up on these and provides information on site, of the importance of oyster reef ecosystems. Interested visitors can visit exhibitions on the European oyster at the Zoo am Meer, Bremerhaven, as well as at the “Erlebniszentrum Naturgewalten”, Sylt.

On Helgoland, you’ll find information signs on the “Oberland”, or you can also visit exhibitions in the newly designed Blue House Aquarium Helgoland (not opened yet). Guided tours through the Helgoland Oyster Hatchery provide additional insights into the functioning and work in an innovative oyster breeding facility (on request).

The European oyster goes to school

With its reefs, the European oyster forms a species-rich habitat that represents an ecosystem of its own which provides important ecosystem services. This is another aspect of the knowledge transfer in PROCEED: The oyster reef exemplifies and explains the special and important role of ecological key species, as well as the significance of biodiversity, and of the valuable ecosystem services.

Specially developed teaching materials are available for the purpose of giving a general understanding of the once native oyster species, and the need for its reintroduction. In addition, the interactive knowledge portal heimische-auster.de/en/ can be used at home, as well as in the classroom, to playfully explore the various and complex topics related to the European oyster.

The PROCEED project is funded by the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, BfN, with funds from the Federal Ministry for the Environment, BMUV, as part of the Federal Program on Biological Diversity.