Oyster Ecosystem and Historical Significance

The video explores the history of oysters in New York City, starting with a street in Manhattan paved with oyster shells in the 1600s. By the 19th century, New Yorkers consumed about a million oysters daily, making the city the oyster capital of the world. However, pollution and overfishing led to the decline of oyster beds, with the last one closing in 1927. Restoration projects began in 2000, aiming to revive the reefs and their ecological benefits, though full restoration is unlikely.

What was the original purpose of the street in downtown Manhattan in the 1600s?

• A shipyard

• A residential area

• A waterfront road

• A marketplace for oysters

Why did ships have to navigate carefully in New York Harbor during the 1600s?

• Due to frequent storms

• Because of large oyster reefs

• Because of pirate activity

• Due to strong currents

By the 19th century, how many oysters were New Yorkers consuming daily?

• 5 million

• 500,000

• 1 million

• 2 million

What was one use of discarded oyster shells in New York?

• As jewelry

• As fertilizer

• In construction

• As currency

When did the last oyster bed in New York close?

• 2000

• 1900

• 1927

• 1950

What role do oysters play in the ecosystem according to the restoration projects?

• They act as natural filters and homes for marine life

• They are used in construction

• They are a food source for humans

• They are a tourist attraction