Eastern oysters ( Crassostrea virginica) are well known for their tolerance of anoxic conditions. Earlier studies revealed biochemical and physiological changes during acclimation to anoxia and some reported the expression of anoxia- responsive genes. Studies summarized here reveal that extended valve closure, valve integrity (no holes), and heart rate reduction/ cessation appear to contribute to long-term anoxic tolerance of the eastern oyster. A single hole drilled into a valve compromised the oysters ability to survive under anoxic conditions. Mechanical and behavioral contributions to anoxic tolerance have not been well studied in bivalves.