European flat oyster
Quick Summary
The European flat oyster, scientifically known as Ostrea edulis, is a common, edible, flat-shelled oyster native to European waters. It is a type of bivalve mollusk found in temperate and warm coastal waters.12
Oysters, in general, have two shells with rough surfaces, typically gray in color. The inner surfaces are smooth and white. They filter tiny organic particles from the water for food using cilia on their gills.2
European flat oysters are hermaphroditic, meaning they can change sexes. They are ready for harvest in three to five years and are a popular food source, with varieties like the Colchester and Marennes being forms of O. edulis.2
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