News / Big oyster
A SHETLAND trawler has caught what could be the largest oyster ever found in the UK.
The Fidelitas was trawling 27 miles south east of Bressay when it caught the shell, which measures 201mm across and weighed in at just over a kilogramme.
Skipper Mark Anderson was very surprised to find an oyster in his nets and brought it to staff at the NAFC Marine Centre who confirmed its record breaking potential.
The previous record holder was reported in Cornwall in 2009 and measured 178mm across and weighed around 1.3kg.
Dr Beth Leslie, from the NAFC Marine Centre, said: “Native oysters are relatively rare in Shetland waters and for one to be caught in a trawl is very unusual.
“This oyster was also found at around 120m, which is much deeper than would be expected for this species. Although it is not possible to accurately age the shell it is possible that this individual could have been living for decades.”
The largest oyster ever recorded was in Chesapeake Bay in the USA and was over 300mm across.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.