Cultural ecosystem services enabled through work with shellfish

Cultural ecosystem services are understudied relative to other types of services. This is especially true as they relate bivalve shellfish. Approaching cultural through shellfish-based livelihoods, this study utilized ethnographic field methods detail the benefits received and enabled by individuals work with A total 218 shellfish growers, wild harvesters, others working in roles that support shellfisheries United States regions Chesapeake Bay, Gulf Mexico, New England were interviewed create a list shellfish-enabled cultural, provisioning, regulating, supporting well their related benefits. Results illustrated involved both aquaculture perceive receive similar benefits, though interpretation these may vary depending on industry role. In addition describing overall, attention was given linked how be enhanced or diminished changing social-ecological system. The comprehensive dataset useful for understanding myriad associated provides foundation necessary continued research analysis shellfish-associated Findings underscore importance noted absence management policy discussions and, ultimately, decisions. Beyond shellfisheries, showcases combined utility participatory approach flexible framework which describe