164: 
increased or diminished temperature upon the mature oyster 
and embryos. 
Investigations into the character of the water, especially as 
regards its increased or diminished density and its extent. 
Investigations into the character of the bottom and its in- 
fluence upon the oyster. 
A determination of the direction and velocity of the cur- 
rents, and such collection of statistics of the oyster trade and 
fishery as would show its present condition and give a value 
to the dredging factor ; and, lastly, a collection and study of 
the fauna of the beds, particularly of those animals supposed 
to affect the oyster. 
An attempt has also been made to collect the experience of 
the oystermen and dealers, as to the habits of the oysters and 
as to the effect of the various changes of environment. 
Having shown what, in my opinion, were the objects to be 
obtained, and the direction which the investigation should 
pursue, it remains now to describe in detail the work of the 
party in each branch of the inquiry and to decide upon the 
value of the results. 
DELINEATION OF THE BEDS. 
The beds in Tangier and Pocomoke Sounds were surveyed 
during the season of 1878 and described in my report of the 
operations of the party during that year. During the last 
season the survey of the beds has been but an incidental part 
of the work, only such having been delineated as time and 
circumstances would permit. 
Those lying inside the Sounds have been subjected to an ex- 
amination and survey similar to that of the previous season. 
BEDS IN THE N ANTICOKE RIVER. 
These are small and inconsiderable, embracing a total area 
of 827,025 square yards. 
Most of them lie on the eastern side of the channel and ex- 
tend a short distance above Ragged Point, though detached 
groups may be found much further up the river. 
The beds are small and the oysters and shells uniformly 
