Did You Know?

Good for You!

Oysters contain vital nutrients, including: ◆ Protein ◆ Zinc ◆ Vitamin B12 ◆ Copper ◆ Iron ◆ Selenium ◆ Manganese ◆ Omega-3s

Quick Facts

◆ Only native oyster species on East Coast ◆ Their shells are always filled with water (a dry oyster is not a good oyster) ◆ Can live as long as 20 years ◆ Average 3 to 5 inches in length, but can grow as long as 8 inches

Compiled by Neva Parsons

Why Only "R" Months?

◆ Oysters spawn when water temps reach 68 degrees and spawning oysters aren't flavorful. ◆ Bacteria can develop in oysters during warmer months, including Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) and Vibrio vulnificus (Vv). Harvested oysters should be stored at temps below 40 degrees (but not frozen).

Amount of water one oyster can filter per day.

Adult oysters are sessile. What the heck is that? Sessile means "fixed in place; immobile." Oysters attach the bottom half of their shell to a fixed object to avoid being washed away by the tide. In Georgia, wild oysters attach to each other in clusters, creating oyster reefs. Oysters are a keystone species, meaning the ecosystem depends on them. Oysters and oyster reefs are beneficial because: ◆ Reefs provide food, shelter and habitat for other marine species ◆ They stabilize shorelines/banks and prevent erosion ◆ They filter bacteria and other harmful particles from the water