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Oysters take nutrients from the microscopic particles and organisms in the ocean water by opening their shells slightly to allow water to flow in.
As a result, small irritants such as small ocean animals can also float in. Parasites can also drill right through the oyster's hard shell.
To protect itself, the oyster forms a sac around then secretes layer upon layer of nacre onto the irritant. After years, this results in a lustrous pearl. |
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At first, these oysters were plentiful and easily found in the sandy shallow waters of the bay. As demand grew and the oysters were being depleted in shallower waters, it became necessary to dive to greater depths.
Early diving and air delivery methods were developed at this time. One of the main methods was a hard hat diving. Dangers facing divers included the bends as well as strong tides, sharks, jellyfish and storms.
In the 1930's the oyster beds had been depleted and the natural industry declined. |
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