Report Highlights Sudden Mortality Syndrome in Virginia Oyster Farms

Wayne Creed December 8, 2024

GLOUCESTER POINT, Va. — A new report from the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) has shed light on a troubling phenomenon affecting oyster farms, known as sudden unusual mortality syndrome (SUMS). The condition has caused significant losses for oyster farmers across the region, with mortality rates ranging from 30% to 70% of their crops.

SUMS primarily strikes oysters as they enter their second season, a critical stage when they are large enough to be harvested. In some cases, the oysters die so quickly that the meat is gone before farmers can collect them.

The VIMS report also outlines best practices to mitigate the risk, offering guidance for oyster farmers aiming to protect their livelihoods. These include improved farm management techniques, monitoring for environmental stressors, and strategies to reduce the spread of pathogens.

Virginia is one of the leading oyster-producing states in the U.S., and the rise of SUMS threatens not only the industry but also the ecosystems that oysters help sustain.

“This issue has the potential to devastate farms and local economies,” said one expert involved in the study. “Implementing these best practices is crucial for long-term sustainability.”

Further research is underway to better understand the causes of SUMS and develop more targeted solutions.