Since European settlement, the Chesapeake Bay's esturine system has supported major fisheries and the livelihoods of residents. Over recent decades, however, many of the fish and shellfish that supported these fisheries have declined.
This work describes the structure and function of the bay's ecosystem, including key habitats and species interactions. Recommendations to implement ecosystem-based approaches to fisheries management for bay resident and coastal species are included, as well as recommendations for research to enhance knowledge of the ecosystem and its fisheries.