Auckland rock oyster [Saccostrea cucullata]
Description
The Auckland rock oyster is native to New Zealand, found primarily in the northern parts of the country. The species is characterized by its irregularly shaped shell, which is usually dark brown or black in color. They are found in intertidal zones and are known to form dense clusters on hard substrates. They are filter feeders, primarily consuming plankton and other organic particles in the water.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Clams, Oysters, and Scallops
Bivalvia
|
| Order |
Oysters
Ostreida
|
| Family |
True Oysters
Ostreidae
|
| Genus |
Rock Oysters
Saccostrea
|