There are two types of oysters. One for being the most delicious and exquisite food and two for pearls which are one of the world’s most precious ornaments. Now researchers have identified a new species of oyster that can provide both. The researchers found the new species in an area called Phu Quoc on the east coast of Thailand.
These oysters, scientifically named Pinctada phuketensis, belong to the genus Pinctad. Although they have been in use for a long time, they have only recently been recognized as a new species. Previously, this species was included in the category Sharks Bay Pearl Oyster. In a recent study of their anatomy and genetics, researchers learned that these oysters in Thailand are a different species.
There are regarding twenty oysters belonging to the Pinctad genus in the world. Found in the Indo-Pacific region and the western region of the Atlantic, their habitat is mainly equatorial and tropical regions. Due to their lack of availability, species belonging to this genus are cultivated artificially. They are raised mainly for meat through a farming method called oysterculture. Pearls rarely form in artificially grown oysters.
The researchers collected 15 samples of this new species while scuba diving on Thailand’s Dok Mai Island. Then they were sent to the lab for genetic testing and morphological testing. The researchers identified that this category of oysters in Thailand is smaller than other oysters in morphological examination. And the structure of their pallukas is also different. Another distinguishing feature of these oysters is the brown stripes on the outside of their generally white shell.
Pearl oysters are the only oysters capable of producing pearls. Therefore, not all oysters that we eat can form such pearls. It is because of this rarity that sea pearls become a valuable piece of jewelry. The researchers are preparing for a more detailed study to know regarding the evolution and genetic makeup of the species that has just been discovered.
English Summary: A New Pearl Oyster Species Has Been Found Off The Coast Of Thailand