Capture and Culture Species
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Photo	Names
Illustrations by Chris Van Dusen Images Courtesy of Seafood Business Magazine	Latin: Crassostrea gigas French: Huitre German: Auster Spanish: Ostra Russian: Gigantskaya ustritsa Japanese: Mugaki

Description

Pacific oysters usually have thick curly shells that range in color from grey to white. There are many different species of oysters around theworld and within each species are dozens of regional varieties. The taste and texture of oysters is more dependent upon the region in which they are grown rather than the species they belong to. Oysters are found in the coastal waters around the world. They are considered to be the best in cool waters, as warm waters spur the spawning process. However, spawning oysters are considered a delicacy in Japan.

Markets	Commercial Aspects
Exporting Countries Culture: United States, Japan, Canada, Chile, New Zealand Capture: Mexico, Asia, Indo-Pacific region Primary Consumers Japan, United States, Europe, Canada	-----

Production Trends

Diet/Health Info

Despite declines in production in recent years, production is expected to stabilize and perhaps increase.

Oysters are excellent sources of iron and zinc. However, as filter feeders, oysters can collect harmful toxins, bacteria, and pollutants within their tissues. Oysters produced in Europe undergo a depuration process to rid them of these toxins. Oysters in the United States do not undergo these processes, but rather the water they grow in is monitored. Buyers should be aware of the region and water quality the oysters they purchase originated from.

The Global Supply

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