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Malapeque oysters, named for the bay in eastern Prince Edward Island (map) where they are harvested, are exported and enjoyed across Canada and around the world. Prince Edward Island produces the largest amount of oysters in volume and value in Canada.

Although fishers have been involved in the oyster business for more than 150 years it is a relatively new economic activity in the province.

Shellfish aquaculture systems are currently practiced in 19 bays around the island. As shellfish are grown in a natural environment they require areas that have abundant food resources and are pollution-free.

Aquaculturists employ a variety of culturing techniques for oysters, such as bottom culture, where fishers scoop the oysters with long-handled tongs, and floating bag systems where the oysters are suspended in the water. Aquaculture techniques are also used to enhance the beds where oysters already exist to encourage their health and growth. The size of a standard P.E.I. oyster is 75mm.

For more information:

• Prince Edward Island Aquaculture Alliance - Growers
• Aquaculture
• The Prince Edward Island International Shellfish Festival | Industry Overview
• Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency