About our Oysters
As a dedicated aquaculture facility, we prioritize delivering large, healthy, and pristine oysters.
Our secret lies in cultivating farm-raised triploid oysters that cannot reproduce. By diverting their energy towards growth instead of reproduction, we ensure exceptional quality.
From seed (spat) to market-ready oysters, our oyster farmers devote approximately 18 months to their meticulous care.
Starting as 1-2mm specks resembling grains of sand, the seeds are nurtured in our nursery tank. Here, water flows through the tank, allowing the oysters to filter and feed on algae. The filtered water is then returned to the bay. Throughout this stage, our oysters are diligently cleaned three times a day.
Once they mature, the oysters are transferred to our floating upweller system, which enables crucial water movement for their nourishment.
The more food the oysters receive, the faster they grow. As they reach just over a half inch in size, we relocate them to half-inch cages in the open waters. Upon reaching one inch, they graduate to one-inch cages, facilitating enhanced water circulation. Regular cleaning, sorting, and re-caging are undertaken to prevent overcrowding and promote continuous growth.
Discover the Fascinating World of Oysters
Oysters, the remarkable invertebrates that inhabit our waters, hold secrets worth exploring. Here are some fascinating oyster facts:
- Type: Invertebrate
- Group Name: Colony, Bed, or Reef
- Scientific Name: Crassostrea Virginica (Eastern Oyster)
- Average Life Span in Captivity: Up to 20 years
- Size: Ranging from 3 inches (8 cm) to 14 inches (36 cm)
- Environmental Impact: A single oyster can filter over 50 gallons of water per day, playing a vital role in maintaining water quality.
- Historical Significance: At one time, the oysters in the Chesapeake Bay were so abundant that they posed a hazard to navigation.