A Tale of Two Species: An Exploration into the Effects of Increased Alexandrium Populations on Shellfish Harvesting in Kachemak Bay
Kachemak Bay has the optimum conditions for shellfish of all types. A wide tidal variation and nutrients from glacial runoff, provide a highly favorable environment for the growing of oysters, mussels, and clams. In addition, the region’s temperate summers discourage the development of Alexandrium, the dinoflagellate most commonly known to cause Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP).