Native Oyster

oyster native
© Tasmanian Government. Image Peter Gouldthorpe
Season: Open all year

bag limit50

 

possession limit-

 

boat limit-

Guide to symbols

bagBag Limit
housePossession Limit
boatBoat Limit

Minimum size

None
Measuring
Measure across the widest part of the shell. See Shellfish page for information about shellfish and shell collection.

Other names

flat oyster, mud oyster, angasi


Scientific name

Ostrea angasi

Grows to


Up to

180mm

Identifying features


​A round shaped oyster with irregular ridges and flaking or brittle edges to its thick shell.  The shell halves or valves are different with one curved and one flat.  Colour is brownish to whitish or cream depending on its habitat.

​​Habitat

Found in the sandy or silty subtidal zone from 2-20 metres on the east coast of Tasmania.  Attaches to rocks and shells in sheltered areas and channels.  Sometimes forms dense beds or layered reefs in areas with strong tidal currents.

Fishing Information

Usually taken recreationally by diving.  Closely related to the European oyster, the native oyster is considered a delicacy by lovers of this gourmet food.

Handling

Sponges growing on shells may cause skin irritations.

Public Health Advice 

Follow any public health alerts relating to eating wild shellfish - refer to the Department of Health or phone their hotline on 1800 671 738.

Cooking

Native oysters have a very brittle edge around the shell.  Remove this prior to shucking.

Recipe: Seafood Sauce for Oysters Au Naturel:

3 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tbsp good quality tomato sauce; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; dash of Tabasco sauce; salt and pepper; ¼ cup cream.

Combine all ingredients and mix to a smooth creamy paste.​

Hotline

Fishwatch Report illegal fishing

0427 655 557

What to report? arrow button

Contact us

Recreational Fishing

Level 3, 134 Macquarie St

Hobart TAS 7000

Phone: (03) 6165 3233, 1300 720 647

Email: fishing.enquiries@nre.tas.gov.au

Commercial Fisheries

Level 3, 134 Macquarie St

GPO Box 44

Phone: (03) 6165 3000, 1300 368 550

Email: commercial.fisheries@nre.tas.gov.au

Commercial Fisheries Licensing

Level 1, 134 Macquarie St

GPO Box 44

Phone: (03) 6165 3000, 1300 368 550

Email: fishing.licensing@nre.tas.gov.au