Seed Sales
Our disease-resistant, natural triploid oysters are sold under contract with the College of William and Mary and originate from broodstock selectively bred at the Virginia Institute for Marine Sciences (VIMS). Reared at our Crocheron and Fishing Creek nurseries, we offer oyster seed sales in a range of sizes and strains to meet the needs of various regions and conditions.
Oysters are bred for shape, size and disease resistance as well as a range of salinity. Commercial aquaculture farmers and oyster gardeners can pick the broodstock they desire to match their operations.
Nurturing care, state-of-the-art technology and the most advanced grow-out gear ensures that our oysters are raised in a healthy, consistent and fast-growing environment.
Size & Availability
Eyed Larvae
Our eyed larvae have a setting rate of 15 to 20% with an average of 18 to 20%. Availability varies between April and November.
Cultchless Seed
Cultchless seed can be purchased in 11 sizes: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 14-18, 20-24, 25-30, 32-36, and 40-44mm (options based on the screen size on which they retain; actual shell size is larger). DBY-H or LOLA strains sold. Available April through November.
Payment Terms
We require a 25% non-refundable deposit at the time of order. All sales must be Paid in Full before product will be released. There is a $1,000 minimum for orders requiring overnight shipping. Local pick-ups do not require a minimum. Overnight orders will have shipping costs added to the final invoice. We must be notified within 72 hours after receipt of order to assist with count and viability disputes. Orders are filled in the order in which deposits are received. Most orders are filled within 30 days of preferred delivery date. From April through September, we are able to fill some orders immediately depending on quantity and your choice in size and strain. Payments are made by credit card or money order to Hoopers Island Oyster Co.
Orders & Information
For pricing and availability of larvae or seed, please contact Natalie Ruark, Nursery Manager (443) 521-6757 (direct); (410) 397-3664 (office).
Triploid Disease Resistant are natural triploids produced under license from 4Cs Breeding Technologies, Inc.
2019 Larvae & Seed Pricing
| Seed Size / mm | Size / Inch | Price / Each | Price / 1,000 | Price / Million |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Larvae | — | $– | $– | $800 |
| 1 | — | $.008 | $8.00 | $8,000 |
| 2 | — | $.010 | $10.00 | $10,000 |
| 4 | — | $.015 | $15.00 | $15,000 |
| 6 | — | $.022 | $22.00 | $22,000 |
| 8 | — | $.028 | $28.00 | $28,000 |
| 12 | — | $.032 | $32.00 | $32,000 |
| 14-18 | — | $.042 | $42.00 | $42,000 |
| 20-24 | — | $.065 | $65.00 | $65,000 |
| 25-30 | — | $.095 | $95.00 | $95,000 |
| 32-36 | — | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| 40-44 | — | n/a | n/a | n/a |