Eastern Oyster
NameEastern Oyster
Scientific NameCrassostrea virginica
Common NameEastern Oyster
FamilyOstreidae
GenusCrassostrea
Speciesvirginica
Geographic DistributionWestern Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Canada south along the Atlantic coast of North America to the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean.
Habitatintertidal
Average Size (mm)Typically 75-150 mm (3-6 inches) in length, but can grow up to 200 mm (8 inches) or more.
Identifying FeaturesIrregular, rough, and lamellar exterior (not fully visible in image); interior is smooth and pearly white; often has a distinctive purplish-brown adductor muscle scar (not clearly visible in this specific image); one valve is typically cupped and attached, the other flatter. The image shows the smooth, white interior with concentric growth lines and some discoloration.
Dietfilter-feeder
Raritycommon
Author Citation(Gmelin, 1791)
Description
A bivalve mollusk shell, specifically the interior of one valve, displaying an irregular, somewhat elongated shape with a smooth, pearly white surface. Faint yellowish-brownish streaks are visible, particularly near the hinge and along growth lines.
