Shellfish 101

Quick Fish Facts

PEI blue mussels grow naturally in our nutrient-rich waters, and are self-sustained with no feed or additives.
There are approximately 130 mussel growers on PEI who farm 11,000 surface acres.
More than 37 million pounds (17,052 tonnes) of mussels were produced last year.
PEI accounts for 80 per cent of Canadian mussel production.
PEI's aquaculture industry contributes over $60 million to the Island economy, with more than $11 million paid in salaries annually.

Oyster production has been part of the Island's seafood industry since 1865 when a provincial statute was passed allowing individuals to lease specific areas of water to bottom-cultivate oysters.
Oysters contain twice as much iron as beef or poultry products. Iron is vital to the reproduction of red blood cells.
One oyster can provide an adult's daily recommended intake of zinc, a proven immunity booster.
Oysters are a great source of Vitamin B12 and Vitamin C.
Oysters contain healthy minerals including Thiamin, Magnesium and Phosphorus.

The soft-shell clam often called teh "steamers" or "squirt clam" and belongs to the Myacidae (Mya arenaria) family. Unlike mussels or oysters, clams live buried in the sand or mud, below the mid-tide level. It gets it's name as it squirts water from its hole when disturbed