Oyster is the common name for a number of different families of salt-water bivalve molluscs that live in marine or brackish habitats. In some species, the valves are highly calcified, and many are somewhat irregular in shape. Many, but not all oysters, are in the superfamily Ostreoidea.

Oysters are saltwater bivalve mollusks that live in marine habitats such as bays and oceans. They’re a vital part of the ecosystem, filtering pollutants out of the water and providing habitats...

Oysters are a delightful bite of pure ocean flavor, or a slimy salty blob. There are many opinions on this polarizing seafood. Fans praise oysters as chewy, distinctive, and fresh-flavored....

An oyster is any member of the families Ostreidae (true oysters) or Aviculidae (pearl oysters), bivalve mollusks found in temperate and warm coastal waters of all oceans.

Learn about different types of oyster and explore where they came from, and the main difference between true oysters and pearl oysters.

Learn the differences between oysters—from European flats to Pacifics—with our guide to oyster varieties.

At The Oyster Encyclopedia, we aim to provide clear and accurate information about oyster species, cultivation methods, and the latest industry trends. Join us in exploring the fascinating world of oysters and elevating your culinary journey.

Oysters are among the hardest working animals in the ocean. As adults, oysters can filter 25-50 gallons of water each day. Back in the day, the entire Chesapeake Bay could be filtered in just five days before oyster populations dropped to just 1% of their historic levels.