ostreidae (oysters)

Ostreidae, commonly known as oysters, are a family of bivalve mollusks characterized by their hard, calcium carbonate shells with two hinged parts. They live attached to submerged surfaces like rocks or piers in marine environments. Oysters are filter feeders, drawing in water and extracting nutrients and oxygen while trapping tiny particles. Many oyster species are also valued for producing pearls and are cultivated commercially for food. They play an important role in ecosystems by improving water quality and providing habitat for other marine life. Oysters vary in size, shape, and habitat, with some species forming large colonies called reefs.