Fisheries Infosite

Deepwater tuatua Central (West) (PDO8)
Maori name
Tuatua (Northern tribes)
Scientific name
Paphies donacina

Physical characteristics

Maximum size of Deepwater Tuatua varies from 73-109 mm depending on the area.

Life cycle

Deepwater Tuatua are broadcast spawners, though nothing is known about the timing of spawning.

Habitat

Deepwater Tuatua are found mainly around the South Island, but can also be found along the north coast of Stewart Island and around the North Island. They are found to depths of approximately 4 m at low tide.

 
Key statistics
Reported commercial catch1 (tonnes)
Quota value estimate2 (NZ$m)
Exports estimate2 (NZ$m)
1 Reported commercial catch is calculated for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025
2 Quota value and exports are calculated pro-rata to reported commercial catch for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025