Oysters

Just like with mussels, we have two different farming methods for oysters: bottom culture and table culture. Traditionally, lime-coated roof tiles were placed on the seabed. Oyster larvae would attach themselves to these tiles and grow into mature oysters. Nowadays, the roof tiles have been replaced by mussel shells. Another, more modern method of farming involves using oyster seed from hatcheries. These hatcheries simulate optimal conditions for the oysters, and through selection, triploid oysters are cultivated. Triploid oysters are hybrids, do not reproduce, and are therefore available year-round. Oyster farmers, including ourselves, purchase the oyster seed and place it in bags that are set on tables in the sea. With this method, the oysters are much less affected by natural predators and have ideal conditions to grow. Our La Zélandaise and Summer Oysters are cultivated using this technique.