Help our coastal towns and environment thrive

Applied research to advance shellfish aquaculture and promote healthy ecosystems in Florida and the Gulf region.

Support livelihoods

Clean our waters

Support Marine Ecosystems

Florida’s Gulf coast and marine ecosystems are under threat. 

  • Once abundant filter feeding bivalve shellfish have been lost from Florida's estuaries.

  • Nutrient pollution is degrading Florida's waters and harming its coastal economies.

  • Florida's seagrass ecosystems are declining due to poor water quality.

  • Shellfish farmers face increasing stressors from climate change, pollution, and harmful algal blooms.

Shellfish aquaculture as part of the solution

We’re linking economic and environmental prosperity through research and action.

Bivalve Research

Applied biology, ecology, and management of Florida’s bivalve shellfish.

Shellfish Restoration

Returning bivalves to coastal waters with aquaculture.

Industry & Community Engagement

Connecting the science of shellfish with coastal communities.

All Clams on Deck

A proof-of-concept to merge shellfish aquaculture and coastal restoration in Southwest, Florida. The multi-year initiative will evaluate the use of hard clam aquaculture as a method to improve local water quality and assist in the recovery of seagrass.

Vertical Oyster Gardens

Vertical oyster gardens (VOGs) are a popular, community-based activity that allows residents the opportunity to ‘seascape’ their docks and seawalls with oysters that provide habitat and clean water. VOGs are recycled oyster shells strung together on a rope or wire that provide a hard surface for oyster larvae to recruit and grow into a mini oyster reef.

Recent Updates

Featured
GSI and RWU Launch Bruce J. Barber Memorial Internship Program
GSI and RWU Launch Bruce J. Barber Memorial Internship Program

The Gulf Shellfish Institute (GSI) is excited to partner with Roger Williams University (RWU) to offer an applied internship in shellfish aquaculture research. The Bruce J. Barber Memorial Internship honors GSI’s first Executive Director.

Aftermath of Hurricane Helene and Milton
Aftermath of Hurricane Helene and Milton

On October 9, 2024, at 8:30 P.M., Hurricane Milton made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane near Siesta Key on Florida’s Gulf coast. Less than two weeks earlier, on September 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene struck Florida’s Big Bend regions as a Category 4 hurricane.

3,000 Bags of Oyster Shells Collected for Restoration
3,000 Bags of Oyster Shells Collected for Restoration

GSI collected 3,000 bags of recycled oyster shells from Florida Oceanographic Society for future research and restoration efforts.

Ways to Get Involved

Donate

Your tax-deductible contributions enable us to continue our crucial work in applied research and restoration. Thank you for supporting our efforts to protect and preserve Gulf shellfish ecosystems.

Work With Us

Discover various avenues for involvement, whether through internships, volunteering, or employment opportunities at the Gulf Shellfish Institute.