PRAWNS AND OYSTERS. 13 
Next in economic importance to the Crayfishes are the 
Prawns, of which New South Wales possesses a number of 
fine edible species; the most important of which at present 
are (1) the King Prawn (Peneus canaliculatus), and (2) the 
School Prawn (Penzus macleayt). Of these, the former is 
the larger, attaining a length of as much as 8 inches. During 
the last five years the following quantities (quarts) of Prawns 
have passed through the fish markets of New South Wales.* 
Year. Quarts. 
EOOR sha. ae S86 2 ZOOM 
TOHOA es ie So 127,000 
TOS fm is hes oa 91,640 
TOQOO RS oes: ae ape 119,360 
1907 187,120 
Total quantity for five years, 738,320; or an average of 
147,664 per annum. 
In addition to those here mentioned, a very large quantity 
is annually disposed of, which dozs not pass through any 
recognised market. 
With edible Oysters, New South Wales is excellently 
provided, though only one species is of commercial importance, 
this being the common Rock Oystert (Ostréa cucullata). 
Among the marine resources of New South Wales, the common 
Oyster holds a very high and important position, as a very 
considerable trade results from its cultivation and sale. 
During the last five years, the following quantitiest of 
Oysters have been produced in the estuarine waters of New 
South Wales :— 
EQOZi oye a q24) SOR E600 
TOA ace ab ... 15,135,600 
TOS ol ieee Fe ... 16,629,600 
TOG: &...; wae faa, LG,0074200. 
TOOT) As: es 324; £7,310,000 
* All quantities of prawns are calculated by me at the rate of 40 quarts=10 
measures, per basket. 
+ By the term Rock Oyster, it must not be understood that this species is only 
to be found in rocky positions, as such is not the case. 
{The quantity is calculated at the rate of 1,200 oysters per bag, which is quite a 
moderate estimate, 
