Blue crab population in Chesapeake Bay falls to 'distressing' low, CBF says

Biologists discover stunning turnaround in one of US' most critical oyster populations: 'We've seen a rebound'

After decades of population decline, Chesapeake Bay oysters are thriving again, the Washington Post reported. A vibrant oyster population is essential to water cleanliness and aquatic biodiversity. As one of nature's best natural filtration systems that remove sediments and pollutants, they filter as much as two gallons of water hourly. Their healthy reefs are also habitats for other species like striped blennies, American eels, skilletfish, and…

Blue crab population in Chesapeake Bay falls to 'distressing' low, CBF says

Following strong 2024 numbers, the blue crab population in the Chesapeake Bay has fallen to the second-lowest number in recent history, according to a new report shared by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.The report, from the Virginia Institute of Marine Science and Maryland Department of Natural Resources, said the 2025 survey estimates 238 million crabs in the bay. The lowest number was reported in 2022 at 226 million. (The annual survey began in…