Average shell length 80-100 mm; can reach 150 mm in four years.Species not native to New Zealand; probably accidentally introduced. The most widely farmed oyster in the world and now cultivated in New Zealand. Superficially similar to the rock oyster when young but the shell is thinner with more laminae than the rock oyster, and it grows faster.
Occurs around the northern half of the North Island, from Manukau to Bay of Plenty, and is farmed in most of these areas. Prefers slightly 5,000-7,000 tonnes on lower tidal levels than the existing leases. rock oyster, which grows around mean low water level; also distributed further into the upper reaches of estuaries and among mangroves. Reaches marketable size of 50-70gms whole weight after 15-18 months. Harvested throughout the year except during the breeding season between December to March. Farmed production currently 2,500 tonnes with production potential of
