About City of Shells

Oyster and other shellfish reefs provide various ecosystem services that benefit us, including cleaner waters, fish production, and coastal protection. However, over the past century, more than 85 percent of all shellfish ecosystems have been lost, making them the most endangered marine habitat on the planet. Hong Kong is no exception. Historical research and dive expeditions completed by The Nature Conservancy and The University of Hong Kong revealed that Hong Kong historically had extensive shellfish habitats that have been decimated by dredging for lime and development. This ecological tragedy silently unfolded beneath the surface, and many people remain unaware of what has been lost.

Featuring researchers from The Nature Conservancy, The University of Hong Kong and The Explorer's Club, City of Shells : Our Forgotten Oyster Reefs delves into the captivating story of this forgotten ecosystem, retracing 1000+ years of history around oysters and their cultural significance for Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta, and the journey of the scientists that are fighting to restore them.

We hope to raise awareness about the significance of oyster reefs and their impact on the health of our oceans, and foster greater support for their protection and restoration.