Behavior Oysters usually colonize in beds. Competition for space is a most important source of mortality. Uncrowded, oysters can live to be 20 years old. The beds are a permanent social structure unless they are separated physically and forcefully. Although water temperature affects growth rate, it appears to be irrelevant in site selection.
Oysters inhabit areas of fairly constant turbidity and salinity.
The oyster is eurytherma,l or able to withstand a wide range of temperatures including freezing temperatures. Certain lime or cement coatings are enhaced by use of the cultch. Some Eastern oysters produce pearls as well. Negative A major problem caused by the oyster is fouling, or attachment, often to boats. Chemical contamination is widespread and detrimental.