Explore the Innovative Cooperative Oxford Laboratory: A Guided Tour of Cutting-Edge Research and Discoveries

Exploring the Cooperative Oxford Laboratory

January 14, 2025

The Cooperative Oxford Laboratory is vital for oyster and marine research in the Chesapeake Bay region.

The Cooperative Oxford Laboratory in Oxford, Maryland, celebrated 60 years in 2024. Photo by Maryland DNR.

The Cooperative Oxford Laboratory, located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, is a key research facility. It is a collaboration between the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and several federal agencies. Scientists here study vital marine topics, including oyster and fish diseases, marine mammal health, and endangered species like the Atlantic sturgeon.

Oyster Disease Research

Oysters from the Choptank River are tested for diseases like MSX and Dermo. Photo by Anthony Burrows, DNR.

Biologist Brian Preziosi presents an oyster during a testing session. Photo by Anthony Burrows, Maryland DNR.

The lab has been researching oyster diseases since it opened in 1960. Dermo and MSX, harmful diseases first identified in the Bay decades ago, have led to significant oyster die-offs. To combat them, scientists sample over 1,500 oysters each year, testing their tissues for these diseases. This helps track where infections are common and how they are influenced by environmental factors like salinity.

Fish Health Studies

The lab also plays an important role in keeping fish populations healthy across Maryland. They conduct tests on both hatchery-raised and wild fish from various habitats, looking for harmful pathogens. Using methods like cell culture and molecular tests, they quickly identify fish diseases.

Biologist Ammar Hanif prepares fish samples for testing. Photo by Joe Zimmermann, Maryland DNR.

This research helps ensure that disease does not spread among stocked fish, protecting both hatcheries and wild fish populations. Scientists also study issues like mycobacteriosis in striped bass, which can lead to high mortality rates among the fish.

Marine Mammals and Sea Turtles

The Cooperative Oxford Laboratory is responsible for responding to stranded marine mammals and sea turtles in Maryland. Their team works closely with the National Aquarium, handling cases involving various species, including dolphins and seals.

Since starting this program, they have responded to over 1,500 stranding incidents. Each case begins with an external examination to look for any signs of disease or injury, followed by a detailed necropsy to better understand the animal’s condition.

DNR staff showcase shells from loggerhead turtles and other marine species. Photo by Anthony Burrows, Maryland DNR.

Studying the Endangered Atlantic Sturgeon

An Atlantic sturgeon at the Cooperative Oxford Laboratory. DNR photo.

The lab is also home to Atlantic sturgeon, a federally endangered species. These fish are kept for educational purposes and for outreach programs. Originally, the lab tried to reintroduce sturgeon into local waters, but this work stopped when the species was listed as endangered. Now, scientists focus on educating the public about these remarkable creatures.

In summary, the Cooperative Oxford Laboratory is a crucial hub for scientific research and conservation in the Chesapeake Bay. Its work helps protect the ecosystem and the species that rely on it.