Crassostrea gigas (Pacific oyster)

Crassostrea gigas, commonly known as the Pacific oyster, is a highly cultivated shellfish valued for its culinary and ecological significance. Native to Asia, it has been widely introduced worldwide for aquaculture, thriving in estuarine and coastal environments. These oysters are filter feeders, filtering water to extract plankton and nutrients, which helps improve water quality. They form dense groups called reefs, providing habitat for marine life. Pacific oysters mature quickly and can grow large, making them important economically. They are also used in scientific research to study marine biology, environmental health, and aquaculture practices.