Chesapeake Bay is an inland estuary that is home to a species of oyster called Crassostrea virginica. These oysters begin their lives as free-swimming larvae. Before they can become adult osyters, the larvae must attach to a hard surface. Over the last 100 years, oyster harvesting in Chesapeake Bay has slowly reduced the size of the oyster beds that larvae use for attachment. Based on the information above, which statement best describes how harvesting has affected Crassostrea virginica?
A.
Populations have most likely declined due to decreased food availability.
B.
Populations have most likely grown due to an increase in available space.
C.
Populations have most likely grown due to decreased competition with other organisms.
D.
Populations have most likely declined due to a decrease in reproduction rates.